On how to be a better ally to Black Lives Matter – making space for the conversation and taking action.
Whenever I’m faced with something difficult or challenging my response is to think – what can I learn from this? What’s the opportunity for growth? What information do I need? What do I need to understand better to deal with this?
As much as I believe in education, these questions are not enough if we want to see lasting social change.
If we also believe in equity and justice, we need to ask, what sustained action do I need to take?
Black Lives Matter. I stand with the movement that calls for sustainable transformation in our communities.
And, I’ve come to realise over the last couple of weeks, in allowing myself to be educated there is much more that I can do to be a better anti-racist, a better ally, in my life and my business. A better accomplice, as Rachel Cargyle says. This is not just about learning more, but about taking action as a lifetime commitment.
Guided by the advice of Myisha T Hill, the author of ‘Check your privilege’, I’m planning to focus deeply on some key people and resources for the next 90 days.
So, this is what action I’m taking:
I’m engaging with Layla Saad’s book ‘Me and White supremacy’. If you are white, and you think by the title that this book isn’t applicable to you, read the first 7 chapters, and then tell me there’s nothing in there for you to learn. The book brilliantly uncovers long-held systemic structures, unconscious actions and widely held beliefs that have supported continued racism, and shows us how we can do better if we #dothework. The author recommends reading this book as part of a group, and I’ve been welcomed into the Ritual coaching academy’s book shelf program where I’ve been able to explore with others how to put the learning into action.
I’ve also been exploring what steps I can take to build my business as an equitable, anti-racist organisation and Rachel Rodger’s business pledge has given me the road map to do this. Rachel is hugely successful a business coach who has created a framework for businesses to take practical steps. You can learn more and sign the pledge yourself at hello seven.
I’m following, and learning from, brilliant women who are sharing their work and insights. @rachel.cargle; @Saira Siddiqui; @sonyarenneetaylor; @leesareneehall
Continuing to be part of paid-for education and training programs that are led by black educators and coaches. For example, #innerfieldtrip by Leesa Renee Hall.
Donating regularly from my business to organisations that support BIPOC education and community building projects, such as Childrens Ground who create opportunity for our First Nations children here in Australia.
This is not yet enough. There is undoubtedly more to do. I’m committing to regularly, every 90 days, asking myself what more action can I take, to #stumblebravely (thankyou @leesareneehall) and #dothework. And, to allowing there to be space for me to share that information, making space for those voices, in whatever platform I have access to.
