There are many different ways in which you can be an active ally. Here are a few examples:
Active ally behaviour | Example |
- Reading and learning about the experiences of people who are different from you.
| - Engage with our libraries’ diverse reading lists or follow people who are different from you on social media. Within your studies, read and engage with diverse authors and diverse points of view.
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- Consciously think about ways of including others in spaces they might not feel comfortable in.
| - When organising social events, suggest a daytime event with no alcohol so students who don’t want to be around alcohol can join in.
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- Uplift and encourage your friends and listen to them with care and empathy if they’ve had experiences that are different from yours.
| - If a friend says they’ve been treated differently because of their identity, listen with an open mind rather than questioning or invalidating their experiences.
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- Commit to learning from your mistakes – we are all bound to make them!
| - If a friend tells you that a joke you made was offensive, instead of getting defensive, listen to them and think about the impact of your joke rather than your intention.
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Active allyship can also mean engaging in collective action. Collective action is often initiated by groups that face similar issues and hold similar beliefs. There will be plenty of opportunities to join societies, clubs and networks that provide opportunities to take part in collective action during your time at university.
