Definitions
Allyship: According to the Anti-Oppression Network, allyship is an active, consistent, and arduous practice of unlearning and re-evaluating, in which a person in a position of privilege and power seeks to operate in solidarity with a marginalized group
Anti-Racism: According to the Government of Canada, anti-racism is the active process of identifying and eliminating racism by changing systems, organizational structures, policies and practices and attitudes, so that power is redistributed and shared equitably.
Digital Literacy and Technology Librarian
Connecting Cultural Understanding, Allyship, and Anti-Racism for Change
Connecting Cultural Understanding, Allyship, and Anti-Racism for Change: Empathy Unleashed
- Understanding Cultural Context: Culturally literate people connect and embrace diverse backgrounds, valuing alternative perspectives beyond their own.
- Recognizing and Addressing Stereotypes: Culturally literate people are adept at addressing stereotypes, especially in discussions on sensitive topics like racism.
- Effective Communication: Culturally literate people, skilled in communication and unity, experience fewer misunderstandings and build stronger relationships across diverse cultures.
- Intersectionality Matters: Culturally literate people grasp intersectionality, understanding how race, gender, and class connect. Allies address these forms of oppressions.
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Promoting Inclusivity: Cultural literacy promotes inclusive spaces, and allies advocate for diversity and equity policies, aligning with the anti-racist goal of dismantling discriminatory structures.
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Learning and Unlearning: Allyship demands continual learning and unlearning biases. Cultural literacy enables challenging biases and fostering self-education about diverse cultures and histories.
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