Self identifying as an ally to a marginalized group you don’t belong to is pretty presumptuous. I don’t think you should be the one that decides that.
As an alternative to claiming the identity of “ally” we can explicitly name the actions we are taking.
For example, non-Black people can say “here are some ways I try to challenge anti-Blackness.”
This can allow for feedback in ways that claiming an identity as an ally cannot.
For example, non-Black people can say “here are some ways I try to challenge anti-Blackness.”
This can allow for feedback in ways that claiming an identity as an ally cannot.
The problem with claiming the identity of an ally is that the only way somebody can respond is by agreeing of disagreeing. If we focus on concrete actions we are taking we can then receive feedback that can help us better challenge oppression.
Scenario 1:
A: I am an ally.
B: Ok.
C: No you are not.
A: Yes I am.
Scenario 2:
A: Here is a concrete thing I am doing as a non-Black person to challenge anti-Blackness.
B: Sounds great!
C: I agree. But have you considered this?
A: I haven’t. Thanks for the feedback!
A: I am an ally.
B: Ok.
C: No you are not.
A: Yes I am.
Scenario 2:
A: Here is a concrete thing I am doing as a non-Black person to challenge anti-Blackness.
B: Sounds great!
C: I agree. But have you considered this?
A: I haven’t. Thanks for the feedback!
While it is important to follow the lead of people from marginalized groups when working to challenge their oppression it is also important not to expect any special recognition for it. Do the work because everybody deserves to be treated fairly, not because you expect gratitude.
