One question that often comes up in DEI discussions is: Can individuals really bridge the systemic inequities that continue to plague our workspaces? For those of us who don’t hold positional power, what can we do to drive change?
A Guide to Becoming a Better Ally
#1 Understand what lack of privilege looks like at work.
June 07, 2023
Summary.
Allyship requires us to become aware of our relative privilege — even within a marginalized community — and make conscious efforts to undo our own biases, champion causes that matter, and act fairly as colleagues and emerging leaders. To be a better ally:
- Understand what lack of privilege looks like. Many marginalized communities, for example, face obstacles that make it hard for them to show up as their full selves at work. Educating yourself on these barriers is the first step to becoming an ally.
- Learn about the different communities you want to support. When you do, you’ll be able to uncover your own unconscious biases and understand how to identify problematic thought patterns and beliefs you may hold.
- Finally, put your allyship to practice. Speak up when you encounter a bias, model inclusive behaviors, and embrace inclusive language as it evolves.
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How to build a better, more just workplace.
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New!
HBR Learning
Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
How to build a better, more just workplace.