Using allyship in practice
Part of the 'Equity Change Project'
Introduction
Allyship models can be used as a practice method for applying the lens of intersectionality.
This section introduces a model to support practice.
Allyship as a practice
I’ve got a duty to learn and understand from their perspective as best I can.
Change Project participant
Allyship fits closely with co-production because allyship is:
- about learning from lived experience or grassroots experience
- doing with, not for or to.
Allyship also fits closely with relationship-based, rights-based and strengths-based practice. Allyship requires us to know the ‘other’ – to consider the rights of others as being just as important as our own, and to work with them so that they fulfil their potential. Intersectionality underpins this work because it enables us to truly see the person, grasp with them the barriers they face and how to break these down, to live fully in the way that matters to them.
Reflective question
Where can I act as an ally and where do I need allies?
Use this tool below to reflect on how you be an ally.
This tool helps you to think through where you can be an ally and where you need allyship.
Example: When have I been an ally?
In the Change Project, we talked about how allyship can change the experiences of marginalised people in an empowering way. Participants reflected on their own experiences of being an ally in their organisations and highlighted that:
- Everyone and anyone can be an ally; you can need an ally and be an ally at the same time.
- Allyship is everyone’s business.
- Being an ally isn’t just about big issues. Sometimes, it’s about simple things, such as breaking up an awkward conversation and other things that happen within the office space.
- There is something about naming what has happened and making it visible; this can be an important act of allyship.
- An ally can be a witness. Without allies, oppression can stay within a group – and challenges can be dismissed as subjective or self-interested.
- You can link into grassroots groups in your community that know what people want and ally with them. They provide information about the struggles of that group and you can co-produce solutions that you put into action together. You might bring some expertise as an ally and they have lived experience, wisdom and expertise in their own lives. Everyone pools their skills to speak up for and implement the changes that are needed.