How to Be an Actionable Ally: Standing Up Against Harassment and Bullying During Times of Social Tension
15 August 2024
Social upheavals, political unrest, and widespread protests often heighten instances of harassment and bullying. Marginalised groups may feel particularly vulnerable, and the support of allies can make a significant difference in these periods.
Being an actionable ally means actively supporting those targeted by harassment and bullying. This involves educating yourself, speaking out against injustices, providing support to victims, and fostering inclusive environments. It’s about transforming awareness into action to create a positive impact.
In this article, we will talk about what it means to be an ally in good times and bad.
Understanding the Role of an Ally
An ally is someone who uses their privilege and position to advocate for marginalised groups. This advocacy can take many forms, such as speaking out against harmful behaviours, supporting affected individuals, and working to create more inclusive environments.
So, how do we show up as an actionable ally?
Stay Informed
Keep yourself updated on the current social issues and tensions affecting marginalised communities. Understanding the context and the specific challenges faced is essential for effective allyship.
Visible Support
Make your support visible. This could be through social media, participating in peaceful protests, or wearing symbols of solidarity. Visibility helps show that marginalised communities are not alone.
It’s important to offer support to those who have experienced harassment or bullying, and this can take various forms, from emotional backing to helping access resources.
Educate Yourself
Education is the foundation of effective allyship. Understanding the experiences of marginalised groups helps you become a more empathetic and informed advocate.
We’ve found some useful articles that focus on allyship, specifically within the LGBTQ+ community and also with preventing racial discrimination.
Active Listening
During times of social tension, listening becomes even more critical. Give space for those affected to share their experiences and perspectives without interruption. This not only validates their feelings but also informs your actions as an ally.
Challenge Misconceptions
Counter misinformation and stereotypes that often circulate during social upheavals. Use your platform to educate others and dispel myths that perpetuate discrimination and bias.
Advocate for Change
Push for policies and practices that protect marginalised groups. Whether in your workplace, community, or online, use your influence to advocate for inclusive policies and practices.
Provide Resources
Help connect those affected by social tension to resources and support systems. This could include mental health services, legal aid, or community support networks.
Speaking Out Against Injustice
Being an actionable ally means not remaining silent in the face of harassment and bullying, this is where we find most people struggle. It’s understandable that in the quest to be an actionable ally, non-minority individuals often face a delicate balancing act.
On one hand, there’s the sincere desire to support and on the other, there’s the risk of ‘white knighting’ – stepping in to “save” others in a way that can be patronising or self-serving rather than genuinely supportive. Understanding the balance between being an actionable ally and avoiding ‘White Knighting’ is crucial for effective allyship.
Here are some strategies for taking action and speaking out:
- Address the Behaviour: Calmly and assertively point out the inappropriate behaviour.
- Support the Victim: Show solidarity with the victim and offer assistance.
- Report Incidents: Follow organisational protocols for reporting harassment and bullying.
Here are some actions to take when supporting the victim:
- Listen Actively: Allow the victim to share their experience without interruption.
- Validate Their Feelings: Acknowledge the impact of their experience.
- Offer Resources: Help them find counselling, legal aid, or other necessary support.
The Importance of Community Support
Being an actionable ally also means fostering a community that supports inclusivity and stands against harassment and bullying. Collective action can lead to significant changes and create a safer environment for everyone.
Form groups within your organisation focused on allyship, many workplaces have organised affinity groups where people have a safe space to discuss their experiences and learn from each other. Similarly, hosting educational events or workshops like ‘Lunch and Learns‘ are a great way to bring people together and create a sense of community within your organisation.
Making a Lasting Impact
Being an actionable ally requires ongoing commitment and effort. By educating yourself, speaking out against injustices, supporting victims, and fostering inclusive environments, you can make a significant difference in the fight against harassment and bullying. Engage in continuous learning and be prepared to adapt and grow in your allyship journey.
How have you stood up against harassment and bullying? What strategies have worked for you? If you or anyone in your organisation don’t feel confident in what it takes to becoming an actionable ally, you can register to our august open event, or please get in touch via our contact page – together, we can create an environment where everyone feels safe, valued, and respected.