Print-Friendly Link

Print

How to Be a Strong Ally to People with Marginalized Identities

• Assume that oppression in some form is everywhere, everyday.

• Notice how oppressions are denied, minimized, and justified.

• Read books and articles to increase your understanding of, and sensitivity to, the needs, aspirations, and concerns of others.

• Understand and learn from the history of racism, heterosexism, ableism, ageism, etc.

• Understand the connections between oppressions, economic issues, and other forms of injustice.

• Take a stand against injustice.

• Be strategic. Decide what is important to challenge and what is not.

• Intervene when someone disrespects or demeans another because of their race, gender, disability, sexual orientation, age, economic status, etc.

• Support the leadership of people who have historically been oppressed.

• Don’t do it alone. Build coalitions and networks, work with already established groups.

• Talk with your children and other young people about oppression.

• Work to bridge differences rather than insist on similarity of views.

• Learn as much as you can about the shifting tactics of hate groups.

• Don’t assume you know what’s best for an individual or group.

• Listen to the stories, experiences, and voices of others.

• Reflect on the impact of your own background and challenge your own cultural assumptions.

• Notice who is the center of attention and who is the center of power.

• Eliminate outdated and unhelpful terms such as “minority, oriental, handicapped, homo, etc.”

• Write letters to the editors and management of newspapers, television and radio stations expressing support for efforts to reduce prejudice, discrimination, and oppression.

• Notice and name dynamics of privilege and oppression that occur in coalitions.

• Form partnerships with communities and congregations of color.

• Work with advocacy groups for bisexual, gay, lesbian and transgender people’s rights.

• Connect service efforts with advocacy for economic justice.

• Create accessible spaces and communities.

For more information contact socialjustice @ uua.org.

This work is made possible by the generosity of individual donors and congregations. Please consider making a donation today.

Last updated on Tuesday, August 21, 2012.

Sidebar Content, Page Navigation