3 Steps to Becoming a Non-Black Ally (and Generally Decent Person)

So I work at an investment bank. TBD how much I talk about that on here. 1. It’s not particularly interesting 2. They probably don’t want to be associated with my foolishness. 3. I haven’t read the by-laws in a minute (ever?). Anyway.

I, like many of you, have been met with several conversations with non-Black acquaintances, colleagues, and friends about what they can do to do better, in light of the murders of Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and George Floyd and the resurgence of the #BlackLivesMatter movement. I’m taking a pause from repeating myself and people have short attention spans these days, so here’s my 3-step plan: 

Acknowledge – that there is an issue and really be honest with yourself about where you stand on the issue and why. Be introspective and ask yourself the real hard-hitting questions.

1. Why haven’t I spoken out on Black issues/incidents in the past?
2. Why am I more inclined to speak out about women’s rights or LGBTQ+ rights?
3. What do I say about Black people in rooms where there aren’t any?
4. How many Black friends do I have? (Real ones who you would invite to your home and introduce to your family and friends)
5. Have I called out my family and friends when they’ve said something racist in the past? Am I able to do that now?
6. What microagressions have I used (knowingly or unknowingly)?
7. Sit with these. Really ponder.

Educate – yourself and those in your circle. It’s great to talk about race with Black people or those of the marginalized group but even better to educate those with privilege.

Act – make tangible improvements. No one group is going to be able to fix this alone, and there are definitely some broader structural changes (both within and outside of your place of employment) that will be required.

What I’ve learned so far: People want to rush to step 3 (people LOVE to be action-oriented). However, step 3 won’t be successful unless you truly and honestly complete steps 1 & 2. Get uncomfortable. Surprise yourself. Not only will it make you an ally, but it will also make you a more well-informed, well-intentioned and generally decent person.