#PaulaSays: Five Problems With Allyship (And Why They Shouldn’t Stop Your Allyship Journey)
Increased
focus on allyship towards communities of color, and the Black community in particular, has been on the rise since the 2020 “racial reckoning” catalyzed by the deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor. Traditionally, the concept of allyship has been prevalent in discussions about supporting members of the LGBTQIA+ community and other underrepresented groups. However, there are several problems with allyship that are often danced around and need to be addressed, especially by
those who are serious about supporting these various groups.
Underrepresented and marginalized communities have been impacted by bias and discrimination and want equity, inclusion, and belonging in their workspaces. Allyship is needed to help right wrongs, highlight inequities, provide opportunities, and to foster inclusive environments. Being effective on your allyship journey requires a lot of effort. Becoming an ally requires self-education, self-awareness, and the understanding that you have to address bias and provide access to spaces and power that you possess both individually and within institutions. This is uncomfortable work, but discomfort is often required to create impactful change. My therapist often reminds me that “Growth begins where comfort ends”. If your notion of allyship is only being an ally when it is comfortable or only done in a performative manner with buttons, t-shirts, and social media posts, then you still have a lot of work to do if you want to be an effective
ally. |
Are you currently making plans for 2023 diversity, equity, inclusion, and professional development education (including Black History Month, Women's History Month, etc.)? If so, please reach out to me by responding to this email or using the Book Paula feature on my website so that we can schedule an exploratory call to talk about your organization's needs. Let's connect! I'd love for you
to share this information with your network on social media. If you do, be sure to tag me! (Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram) #CoachPaula Lastly, feel free to reply to this email with your thoughts. I love hearing from you! Kind regards, Paula
Were you forwarded this email? Cool and thoughtful friends you got
there. 😉
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