PEGI EYERS
In our work as Allies to BIPOC we need to stay away from the methods of the colonizer, which include perpetuating stereotypes, patronizing behavior, the use of perspectivism (assuming others share our worldview), or making rules for the disenfranchised group. It is quite possible that BIPOC hear the solutions and aspirations as offered by white people as patronizing, arrogant and ill-informed. Assuming we know what BIPOC communities need in terms of western ideology or infrastructure, and imposing these “benefits” on them intentionally (or with subterfuge), is known as the “white savior” complex.
White people are not heroes or heroines riding in on a white horse to save everybody (!) we are assisting a group of people who already have a plan in place. Allies cannot presume to know about the experience of BIPOC, or to speak authoritatively about BIPOC community. Targets of oppression are experts on the totality of their oppression and we need to listen to them. Our task is to be mindful of how power is operating in any given context, to think before speaking (if we must speak), and to let BIPOC voices be heard. We are cautioned by experienced activists to understand that our anti-oppression work is not about the needs of the ally, or to feel good about ourselves.
It's about the needs of the targets NOT to be oppressed!
White people are not heroes or heroines riding in on a white horse to save everybody (!) we are assisting a group of people who already have a plan in place. Allies cannot presume to know about the experience of BIPOC, or to speak authoritatively about BIPOC community. Targets of oppression are experts on the totality of their oppression and we need to listen to them. Our task is to be mindful of how power is operating in any given context, to think before speaking (if we must speak), and to let BIPOC voices be heard. We are cautioned by experienced activists to understand that our anti-oppression work is not about the needs of the ally, or to feel good about ourselves.
It's about the needs of the targets NOT to be oppressed!
"First Nations Peoples and the decision of Canadians to stand
alongside them, will determine the fate of the planet."
The Guardian
more on Allyship >HERE< PDF download "Good Allies" by Pegi Eyers
alongside them, will determine the fate of the planet."
The Guardian
more on Allyship >HERE< PDF download "Good Allies" by Pegi Eyers
 | Pegi Eyers is the author of Ancient Spirit Rising: Reclaiming Your Roots & Restoring Earth Community, an award-winning book that explores strategies for social justice, uncolonization, ethnocultural identity, building land-emergent community & resilience in times of massive change. Available from Stone Circle Press or Amazon |
