Allyship

Allyship - “The term “ally” is used to refer to people in historically dominant groups who align themselves politically with historically oppressed groups with the goal of dismantling oppressive systems.” (Segrest, 2016)

I chose this concept because I feel that allyship is incredibly important when considering social justice movements and activism. Through respect, listening, and solidarity, members of historically dominant groups may aid in historically oppressed groups’ fight for equality and sovereignty. The second reason I chose this topic is that allyship can sometimes be problematic and difficult to navigate. Members of dominant groups may feel that they are being allies and providing support to oppressed groups, when in reality these dominant groups’ social privilege leads to their efforts having the opposite effect. Through my blog entries regarding allyship, I hope to provide insight into what it means to be an ally, and how members of socially dominant groups can have a positive impact on social movements and struggles for equality.

Academic Source: Segrest, M. (2016). Allies. In K. Fritsch, C. O’Connor & A. K. Thompson (Eds.), Keywords For Radicals: The Contested Vocabulary of Late-Capitalist Struggle (pp. 47-55). Chico, CA: AK Press.

Keywords: Accountability, Community, Solidarity

Pseudonym: Austin