Some food for thought:
“An ally will mostly engage in activism by standing with an individual or group in a marginalized community. An accomplice will focus more on dismantling the structures that oppress that individual or group—and such work will be directed by the stakeholders in the marginalized group.
The former is working with individuals toward those individuals’ access to representation, dignity or some kind of protection. The latter is working on dismantling a structure, thereby striving for those same protections, but through a different kind of Work.”
"I don't want an ally. An ally means you came here to help me.
How are you helping me solve the problem you caused?
Why aren't I helping you solve the problem you caused?
Why is Blackness the responsibility holder and Whiteness gets to be the helper?"
- Sonya Renee Taylor
Here is a list we are collecting of ways to be an active ally and accomplice. Consider ways you can take part, whether individually, or in a group, in your own community.
See the useful guide “Opportunities for White People in the Fight for Racial Justice”
Donate funds to BIPOC social activities, social action, i.e Native Centres, Black Lives Matter Movement
Hire BIPOCs
Purchase from BIPOC business
Make a list for your Meeting to support local or online BIPOC business
Speak positively about BIPOC folk and groups
Initiate contact with local BIPOC groups
Attend community activities events led by BIPOCs - local art centres, special events, movies
Support BIPOC artists, art, performances - buy tickets, attend performances, purchase books
In any given interaction, situation, group ask yourself: Have I been challenging the system of racism or white supremacy or have I been upholding it?
Subscribe to BIPOC voices that are strong, clear and are clear about 'white comfort'…Selam Debs, Sandi Boucher
Resource: Here's how 'code-switching' can hurt Black, Indigenous people in Canada - CTV article and 3-minute interview with Selam Debs. Also: Racial Trauma discussion with Morning Live in Hamilton.
Do not use the terms that perpetuate a world view that blames the victims
i.e. third world country, underdeveloped country or marginalized people. Instead, say overexploited, disenfranchised or global majority
move away from language like:
"Privilege" and instead address it as "Unearned Advantage”
"Under Represented" to "Historically Excluded"
precision matters; the former is a consequence of the latter. (Dr. Kelebogile Zvobogo)
Attend Rallies
Write letters
Learn about actions you can take toward Reparation
JOIN ARC
Establish nurturing and supporting relationships with newcomers and communities of colour
Support BIPOCs to lead/manage social sport activities
Support folk trying to uncover Quaker involvement in boarding schools and residential schools
Provide a welcoming environment in Meetings for folk with different languages- vs a Cliquish environment
Importance of DEI hiring and ongoing support of BIPOC people
There is a need for changes in the workplace culture in Quaker organizations and beyond
We're looking for additions to this list!