The Journal of the Baptist Peace Fellowship of North America July-September 2017 - 6

sTorIes oF Peacemakers

Four Ways to Be a Better Ally
by Verdell A. Wright

A

llyship is a term loaded with concern and mistrust among
marginalized people. Most recognize that partnerships
are needed to create and sustain social change. However,
many allies behave in ways that undermine the progress and
humanity of those with whom they claim to stand. Let's make
sure that's not you. Here are some tips that you can use to help
you become a better ally.

1. Interrogate Your Own Views

It's great that you realize that racism is wrong, that being queer
isn't a sin, and that sexism is a no-no. What often happens is
that folks stay there, and they assume that having a revelation
about bigotry renders them harmless. Even after we wake
up to the negative ways of the world, we still have ideas and
standings that could work to the detriment of others.
Because we all are shaped by a dominant culture that
manufactures ill feelings toward certain groups, we all have
some work to do to untangle our problematic views. That work
is continuousness, and will likely last as long as we live.
Be sure to check yourself and receive criticism from others
about your views and stances. Some people may give that advice
kindly; others to deliver the message with a rougher edge. Still,
it is important to absorb what's being said, especially if your
goal is to help. Maybe you have the best of intentions, but it's
the actual result of your actions that matter. We'll never be
perfect, but we can consistently progress. The Internet is filled
with resources you can use to continue your education on topics
and circumstances that you don't know about. The more you
know-and put into practice-the better your allyship will be.

2. Use Your Privilege On the Behalf
of Others

During these times, it is important to interrogate and challenge
the spaces where we find ourselves with more privilege and
access. There is a need for direct challenge to people and
institutions that still operate in ways that harm others. Those
who call themselves allies need to use their social capital to
advance progress in ways that others can't.
For example, the next time your pastor says something
harmful about LgBTq people, schedule an appointment to
speak to them about it. If one of your friends has negative
views about those living in poverty, inform them. If a loved one
advocates for policies that would work to marginalize people,
challenge them. Of course, use wisdom in how you approach
these situations. Still, it is vital for allies to put more skin in the
game than likes and retweets. It can't be the sole responsibility
of marginalized people to put themselves in harm's way to
advance these causes.
This is where allies come in. You have access. Use it.

3. Know When to Step Back

Just as it's important to know when to stand up for those who
don't share the same level of access, it is also important to know
when to step back. As an ally, your role is to assist, not assume
positions in the forefront. Unfortunately, allies often get in the
way of the people they are advocating for.
Marginalized people have created countless strategies to
advocate for their own goals.
They are not voiceless; they don't need someone
to speak for them.
Make sure that you enter spaces with mostly
marginalized people with respect and humility.
Leave any savior complex at the door. They don't
need you to save them; your allyship isn't charity.
Learn about the best ways you can assist and then
move out of the way.

4. Put Your Money Where
Your Mouth Is

One of the best ways to assist marginalized people
is to give them money. Donate to their causes, of
course, but also look for other ways to move your
coins towards them. Do you need your car fixed?
Verdell A. Wright is a minister in the
United Church of Christ.
Photo by Pilar Timpane.

6

Baptist Peacemaker

jul-sep 2017



Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of The Journal of the Baptist Peace Fellowship of North America July-September 2017

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http://www.brightcopy.net/allen/peacemaker/38-1
http://www.brightcopy.net/allen/peacemaker/37-4
http://www.brightcopy.net/allen/peacemaker/37-3
http://www.brightcopy.net/allen/peacemaker/37-2
http://www.brightcopy.net/allen/peacemaker/37-1
http://www.brightcopy.net/allen/peacemaker/36-3
http://www.brightcopy.net/allen/peacemaker/36-2
http://www.brightcopy.net/allen/peacemaker/36-1
http://www.brightcopy.net/allen/peacemaker/35-4
http://www.brightcopy.net/allen/peacemaker/35-3
https://www.nxtbook.com/allen/peacemaker/35-2
https://www.nxtbook.com/allen/peacemaker/35-1
https://www.nxtbook.com/allen/peacemaker/34-4
https://www.nxtbook.com/allen/peacemaker/34-3
https://www.nxtbook.com/allen/peacemaker/34-2
https://www.nxtbook.com/allen/peacemaker/34-1
https://www.nxtbookmedia.com