Being an Ally

There have been many topics, discussions, and guest speakers throughout the first half of the semester; all of which have talked about the importance of being inclusive and accepting diversity. All have made some very distinguishing points and a few have caused some “A-Ha” moments to take place. However, none have predominantly stuck out to me as much as the lecture on being an ally.

Being an ally is not just about supporting a certain issue, cause or topic, it is about raising awareness and educating yourself as well as others. It is about bringing a call to action and creating a safe and supportive environment. “An ally is a person who is a member of the dominate group who works to end oppression in his or her own personal and professional life by supporting and advocating with the oppressed population” (Ramella). There is a vast population of people who are considered to be oppressed or counted out based on their differences. In the civil service type of field, it is important to be inclusive and work towards breaking down barriers that prevent that from happening. Actions that can be taken to break down those barriers and create a more accepting environment are to first bring about awareness and educate. I feel that education in itself causes awareness and allows people to become more consciously competent.

An example of awareness and education pairing up to create a more inclusive environment and society has been the recent campaign to eliminate the “r-word” from societal use. I was sent a link to the campaigns website in an email and checked it out for myself. While reading through the various stories and information I found that by putting myself in another person’s shoes was definitely a means of awareness. I personally have never been nor had someone in my immediate family that had a physical or mental disability; however, I know that I have used the “r-word” myself a few times and never thought much of it. After talking to some people who have someone in their life that word effects (even if it is not used directly towards them) it still hurts the individual and even their family. Becoming an ally for a campaign such as this, can first start by educating yourself, eliminating the word from your own vocabulary and then informing others of the repercussions it has. By just igniting one spark, it can help to fuel the fire to burning down the barriers that keep people apart.

I feel that while working to obtain a Bachelors in recreation and tourism with a minor in nonprofit, it is imperative to become allies with those we work with. We are to work towards bringing about social change and impartiality, whether through the initial organizations we are involved in or simply through the people we meet along our career path. Being an ally means becoming a friend, and friendship is something to stand up for.

Works Cited:

Power Point Presentation
Ramella, K. Building Allies.