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An ally is someone who works to support - and advocate for - a group of which they are not a member. The ally is in a unique position to use their voice to help a person or group that does not enjoy the same background, experiences, or freedoms as they do. Being an ally is an important commitment and not one to be taken lightly. Allies must understand that this special role requires actions, and not just good intentions.
Being an effective ally requires recognition that we - and our individual circumstances - are not all the same, and that we possess the ability to help improve the lives of others by listening, learning, talking, and collaborating. It doesn’t mean that we fully understand the struggles and roadblocks faced by others, but it does mean we must strive to take them seriously.
Each of us has an opportunity to be a true ally. Use the resources provided to help learn how.Did You Know?
The Gay Straight Alliance at Rush-Henrietta Senior High School offers a supportive environment for LGBTQ students and their straight peers to connect and build community.
Resources for Learning
Option 1: Watch What is Allyship? Why is Allyship Important? (2:49)
Option 2: Read Ten Things Allies Can Do
Option 3: Watch 5 Tips for Being an Ally (3:31)
Option 4: Watch the local Stand Up, Step Up: 14th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration (49:34)Consider these ways to reflect, grow, and take action:
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Questions to Consider for Self-Reflection:
- How can you become an informed ally?
- What are three concrete ways that you can put this into practice in your daily life?
- Office of Professional Learning Google Site Offering:
Additional Resources
"We Want to Do More than Survive," by Bettina L. Love
The author of this book, a graduate of the Rochester City School District who is a professor of education in Georgia, takes a look at reforming education with the imagination, determination, boldness, and urgency of an abolitionist.
R-H Equity Journey Copyright © 2021, All rights reserved.
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