Allyship
Youth Activism and Indigenous Issues
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25071/28169344.74Keywords:
Indigenous, Ally, Allyship, Activism, decolonization, education, reconciliationAbstract
When is an Ally not an Ally to Indigenous, marginalized, or racialized peoples? How important is it that today's youth are stepping up to fight the good fight for others? Many questions arise when mentioning allyship and how it works. What is the benefit? Is there a benefit? All good questions, and in this article, I intend to address the real issues involving the support of others towards these racialized and marginalized peoples. It is noted that not all “famous” people, or celebrities that support our causes have the best intentions, and they may take away from those on the ground floor doing the work. It is tireless, unappreciated work that goes unrecognized almost all the time, with the primary individuals or groups being placed in the spotlight…or even the limelight. This is about supporting those people as human beings without asking for acknowledgment or accolades and feeling fulfilled by their actions only. Exposing those such as Lorde, the artist from New Zealand, or educators from across this country whom we call pretendians builds an alliance with those who want social justice and believe that we all fight the good fight.
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