How To Be An Ally In The Workplace

As we continue to fight for social and racial justice, it is important that we also create inclusive workplaces. This means not only hiring a diverse workforce, but also creating an environment where everyone feels like they belong. One way to do this is by being an ally in the workplace. But what does it mean to be an ally? And how can you be one? Here are some things to keep in mind:

An ally is someone who uses their position to support those who don't have the same advantages. For example, if you are a cisgender heterosexual person, you are less likely to be discriminated against than someone who is transgender, lesbian, gay or bisexual.

Being an ally doesn't mean that you are perfect or that you always know what to say or do. It means that you are committed to learning and taking action to make your workplace more inclusive for everyone.

Here are some ways you can be an ally in the workplace:

Educate Yourself And Others

If you want to be an effective ally, it is important to educate yourself on social justice issues. Read books, articles, and listen to podcasts from diverse perspectives. When you come across something that challenges your beliefs, don't get defensive. Instead, try to understand where the other person is coming from. It is also important to educate those around you. When you see or hear something that is offensive or discriminatory, speak up! Chances are, there are others who feel the same way but may not feel comfortable speaking up themselves.

Use Your Position To Create Change

As an ally, it is important to use your privilege to create change. This could mean using your voice and platform to amplify the voices of marginalised communities. It could also mean using your position to push for policies that create a more inclusive workplace. For example, if you are a manager, make sure your team is diverse and that everyone has an equal opportunity to contribute and be heard. If you are in HR, push for inclusion training for all employees.

Stand Up For Others

If someone on your team is being treated unfairly or discriminated against, speak up! This could mean having a conversation with your co-worker privately or going to HR if necessary. It is also important to check in with marginalised co-workers after traumatic events (e.g., police brutality) to see how they're doing and offer your support.

Final Thoughts:

Being an ally in the workplace is about using your position to support those who don't have the same advantages as you might have. It's about educating yourself and others on social justice issues and using your position to create change. And it's about standing up for others when they're being treated unfairly or discriminated against. We all have a role to play in creating a truly inclusive work culture.

ted Learning incorporates being an ally into our Inclusion, Equity and Diversity training programmes.?