The 7 Roles of an Ally - Ally Inclusion Day

Are you and ally? Read how you can be an ally this Ally Inclusion Day. Together Equal have put together this handy guide; 7 roles of an ally.

1. The Sponsor

When an ally takes on the role of the Sponsor, they vocally support the work of colleagues from underrepresented groups in all contexts, but specifically in situations that will help boost those colleagues’ standing and reputations.

2. The Champion

When an ally takes on the role of the Champion, that ally acts similarly to the Sponsor, but does so in more public venues. Champions willingly defer to colleagues from underrepresented groups in meetings and in visible, industry-wide events and conferences, sending meaningful messages to large audiences.

3. The Amplifier

When an ally takes on the role of the Amplifier, that ally works to ensure that marginalised voices are both heard and respected. This type of allyship can take many forms, but is focused on representation within communication.

4. The Advocate

When an ally takes on the role of the Advocate, that ally uses their power and influence to bring peers from underrepresented groups into highly exclusive circles. The Advocate recognizes and addresses unjust omissions, holding their peers accountable for including qualified colleagues of all genders, races and ethnicities, abilities, ages, body shapes or sizes, religions, and sexual orientations.

5. The Scholar

When an ally takes on the role of the Scholar, that ally seeks to learn as much as possible about the challenges and prejudices faced by colleagues from marginalised groups. It’s important to note that Scholars never insert their own opinions, experiences, or ideas, but instead simply listen and learn. They also don’t expect marginalised people to provide links to research proving that bias exists or summaries of best practices. Scholars do their own research to seek out the relevant information.

6. The Upstander

When an ally takes on the role of the Upstander, that ally acts as the opposite of a bystander. The Upstander is someone who sees wrongdoing and acts to combat it. This person pushes back on offensive comments or jokes, even if no one within earshot might be offended or hurt.

7. The Confidant

When an ally takes on the role of the Confidant, that ally creates a safe space for members of underrepresented groups to express their fears, frustrations, and needs. Simply listening to their stories and trusting that they’re being truthful creates a protective layer of support.

To view more resources visit the Together Equal website and get in touch with them.