Conclusion

So, what is allyship?

 

     There is no precise definition for it, but rather, allyship can be demonstrated and realized in various ways. It can be taking the initiative to acknowledge and call out the physical and social acts of racial violence inflicted on BIPOC communities. We can also use our voices—whether that is through writing, volunteering, our active participations in social movements-to take a stand alongside individuals and groups who have been affected by systemic racism, and remind everyone of the importance to confront and change the social policies and practices that continue to perpetuate the issue.  

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     But all of these actions also do not mean anything if we don’t intend to change our existing biases and behaviours that can be harmful (e.g., staying silent or selectively advocating for certain groups). The significance of genuine allyship comes from our intentions to continuously learn about the social and historical topics of racism, even if they are unfamiliar and uncomfortable to us. At the same time, when we engage with these topics and discussions and determine our plans of advocacy, we should be mindful of who we are supporting, why we are supporting this cause and/or community in the first place, and the potential impact of how we are showing this support. Without making the effort to reflect on these fundamental purposes, we may further contribute to the issue of racism at large and instead remain in the state of performative allyship.