White Allyship Against Anti-Black Racism

This is a hopefully helpful, if very basic, article aimed primarily at White people who wish to be allies to Black people in the war against anti-Black racism.

While the principles listed here can also be applied to allyship with other afflicted social groups, such as the LGBT+ community or women for example, this article is specifically for, and addressed to, White people who understand the moral imperative of this allyship with Black people.

1. Listen To Black Voices

Get used to not being the one doing the talking, either literally or rhetorically, in person or online.

The very first step is to stop your mouth.

The second step is to engage yourself in deliberate, conscious, attentiveness to what Black people are saying. And that means everything they are saying, without your interruption, interpretation or correction.

And it means continuing to do so. We are not talking here of a one-off experience for you, or an intermittent on/off tap you deploy if you feel like it. Listening is an active practice, a personal discipline, and a way of life. It opens up to us the world around us. Listen to Black voices. Take in what they are saying, process it, reflect on it.

2. Educate Yourself

Make it a priority to learn about the experiences of Black people, the histories of Black people, and the intellectual, social and political arguments put forward by Black people. It has never been easier to find and access books, documentaries, movies, websites, organisations and institutions. Do it.

Be humble and open to having your opinions and assumptions challenged and changed. This will expand your horizons and elevate your soul.

Understand that whilst many Black people will graciously signpost educational resources, it is not beholden on Black people to educate White people. We should not expect Black people to have to explain themselves, and their experiences, and the complex realities of society, over and over and over to us. Take the initiative, take hold of the baton, give a damn and make the time to educate yourself.

I will endeavour soon to post some kind of resources list which may be of help. But you can get started right away, the internet awaits your earnest curiosity.

3. Respect The Autonomy And Authority Of Black Spaces

Don’t expect to be at the head of the table, or even at the table at all. In fact, don’t expect an invite, and don’t get resentful and victimy if you don’t get one. There is a long, deep and painful history of failure on the part of White people to help. Black people have learned they can only rely on themselves.

And don’t ever even think of imposing yourself on Black-only spaces. Black-only spaces are not racist. To the contrary, they’re anti-racist portals of resistance against racism, oppression and injustice. They are survival strategies for a targeted, brutalised, victimised people. Places of freedom and wellness and truth for people who are consistently denied these things elsewhere.

Be under no illusion, Black people do not need input from White people to understand what the problems are, what the solutions might be, or how to proceed. If you’re interested in helping, take your lead from Black people, they’ll tell you how you can help.

4. Support Black Advocacy

Support, promote, purchase from and invest in Black creatives, Black self-employed professionals, Black-owned businesses, Black advocacy and anti-racism organisations, and companies that pro-actively practice Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) initiatives.

6. Take A Stand In Your Workplace

Actively support DEI and anti-racism initiatives in your workplace. Don’t be afraid to be known amongst your White colleagues as an ally to Black people when relevant topics/circumstances arise. Take a consistent and visible stand against any anti-Black racism you witness or that a Black colleague has experienced. Be prepared to be unpopular with the status quo in a predominantly White system, but don’t expect a medal from your Black colleagues – you’re only a beginner.

7. Take A Stand Wherever You Are

Never allow racism to slide, anywhere, anytime. If you witness it happening, always shine a light on it, highlight it, point it out, challenge it, don't accept it. Express support and offer assistance to anyone who is a victim of racism.