"Allyship" has never been more popular.

"Allyship" has never been more popular.

In my almost two decades working in roles that aim to create more inclusive, diverse and equitable workplaces and communities, I have never seen a period when so many people are proud to call themselves 'Allies'.

I truly celebrate when I see more people (especially those in positions of power) choosing to use their power and influence to drive positive change.

BUT, I do fear that 'Allyship' is losing its true meaning.

Being an Inclusion or DEI Ally is not about....

⏹️ Self-labelling yourself as an 'Ally'.

⏹️ Receiving certificates that proclaim you as such.

⏹️ Wearing the 'Ally' title as a badge of honour.

⏹️ Choosing when to "turn up" or "turn off" your bias radar.

⏹️ Hogging any spotlight while those you claim to support are kept in the shade


Ally in the spotlight

I know some already make a distinction between being an "active ally" and being a "passive ally" but that distinction makes me smile.

Because it is just like saying that a firefighter who arrives at the scene of a fire can make a choice between being "an active fire-fighter" or a "passive fire-fighter"

In many organisations, little flames of seemingly isolated bias and discrimination often gradually combine to become raging flames - that signify an organisational culture that only benefits a select few.

Once a person steps forward to become an ally to an underrepresented, disadvantaged or overlooked group of people, that person should recognise that allyship is not a passive identity.

▶️ Allyship is not a noun.

▶️ It requires action.

▶️ It requires learning and growth.

▶️ It requires commitment.

▶️ It also requires consistency.

Before I continue, a simple definition so we're clear about what an "Inclusion Ally" or "DEI Ally" should mean:

❝ An Inclusion or DEI Ally is someone from a dominant or majority group who actively uses their power, influence or resources to support a group of people who are underrepresented, disadvantaged, or excluded from opportunities❞

The support a real Ally provides must involve using their power and influence to actively tackle some issues that prevent the people they support, from thriving or progressing within a system.

And Allies can choose to support in many ways, including some shown below:

Some practical ways to demonstrate real allyship

I have worked alongside some amazing people who have chosen to use their power, influence and resources to bring allyship to life.

And their impact can be game changing when it comes to progressing inclusion efforts.

Being a real ally requires learning and growing to develop the confidence and competence needed to not only drive action, but to also advocate and challenge others, when needed.

When I support leaders who want to actively demonstrate their allyship, I always encourage them to start by keeping three things in mind: Humility, Accountability and Impact.

We're all a work in progress and I understand that Allyship might not come easy to many people.

Especially those who're uncomfortable with reflecting, learning and standing shoulder to shoulder with those they claim to support.

However, I see the decision to be a real Ally as the same as choosing to be a truly good leader. A leader who chooses to improve things in small or big ways. One who remains committed.

I look forward to more Allies walking the talk, not just talking the talk!


Contact me if you would like to improve your Allyship plans and DEI Strategy, contact me here or via my website.


Annmarie H.

Project Manager | Ethnicity Awards Winner 2024 l Event Management l DE&I Champion | Mentor

1mo

Great article Cordelia. I too find the self labelling that has become increasing prevalent in allyship as somewhat problematic. Solidarity for me speaks better to a more collective approach

Sean Spurgin

Learning Director | Co-founder | Author | Performance Consulting | Learning Solutions | Learning Design | Facilitator

1mo

People don't judge your intent...they judge your actions :)

Excellent article Cordelia. One that challenges and made me sit back and think. Not only on what makes a real ally? But is it ever possible to measure their success? After a lifetime of trying I often wonder if it’s made any difference at all. Especially as I look at some of the things happening in the U.K. today. But maybe I’m just getting old.

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