Thread by @geobreeology

What I got from this is that any progress as allies, even if it is performative, is progress in and of itself. Which, to a certain extent I mildly agree with. I don’t agree with everything that he wrote but it does bring a new perspective in how we deal...1/5

with the “misbehavior” of allies. In the case, with Jen Heemstra she was wrong in her response multiple times, and I’m not dismissing that. On the other side I do understand where he’s coming from when he says that her being dragged was “misguided and off-target”. 2/5

I don’t think he’s giving her a pass for her bs, but rather saying bullying her doesn’t help anyone, especially not BIPOC. We can’t claim to “encourage” dialogue and then dismiss others when they say something that’s not right (if they are willing to listen). 3/5

Jen blocking BIWOC signaled to me and many others that she was NOT willing to listen. Her actions are not justifiable AT ALL. All I’m saying (and what I think he might be saying too) is that OUR response to her “misbehavior” as an “ally” is just as, if not, MORE important. 4/5

She, and other self-proclaimed allies, deserve to be criticized. In fact, I find it irresponsible to just “let it go”. However, calling people out in a way that devalues others’ and their intentions is IMO equally as irresponsible, especially all we see is what they post online.

I could be wrong, and I get why people don’t agree with what he said. But to not consider what he’s saying I feel is being dismissive of other Black voices that may feel differently. Just cause somebody may feel different doesn’t mean it’s wrong or invalid. 🤷🏽‍♀️