I've always thought of the most powerful way to get rid of racism and systematic oppression was through POC standing up for ourselves, I now understand that in order to alter the world and history, our white allies do need to stand up with us. Many claim they aren't racist nor support racism but will not speak up when a racist act is being performed. I understand the fear that people have when it comes to speaking up on behalf of others, but sitting on the sidelines and not stopping it just makes you apart of the problem because you are unintentionally participating. Participating in racist acts is not the wave. On the other hand it is very difficult to help change the views of racist people, hence why many think it's pointless to even try.
Ayvazian explains what an ally and allied behavior is in her article. Allied behavior is, "intentional, overt, consistent activity that challenges prevailing patterns of oppression, makes privileges that are so often invisible, and facilitates the empowerment of persons targeted by oppression." For example, Bernie Sanders is an ally. Donald Trump is FARRRRRRR from it. My favorite quote from this article was Ayvazian quoting William Stickland, "When a critical mass of white people join together, rise up, and shout a thunderous "No!" to racism, we will actually alter the course of history."
Tim Wise
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