From an Ally to an Accomplice and Beyond
Black History Month concluded last week, and I think it’s important to still talk about Anti-Racism. But I want to be vulnerable in this space and share that I recently spoke with a friend about writing a post about how woke the Government is. Instead, this friend encouraged me to reflect on areas of personal growth because change starts with each of us.
I have made mistakes, try as I might to avoid them. A recent example: when I saw a Black employee of the county made to feel insulted, I did not speak up. I did not speak out. I am ashamed of this, knowing that I need to do better. Quantitative data on my privilege exists too. In a recent Intercultural Development index, my perceived orientation was well above my developmental orientation, demonstrating that there is more to be done!
I originally wanted to focus this post on Allyship. However, thanks to the work of Black authors and activists, I have become aware of my performative allyship. Black voices are powerful in this space like Carmen Morris and Holiday Phillips.
Monroe County Councilwoman Jen Crossley recently educated me on moving toward being an Accomplice. I have to admit I needed to do more reading; Dr. Tiffany Jana's work is helpful. As an elected official, I think it very important that as Dr. Jana writes we “tap into our privilege to work toward Justice”. In particular, we need to be doing the work of identifying and removing barriers to justice.
Dr. Jana suggests a further phase, that of Co-Conspirator. I have so much to read and learn. So, I will continue to listen and engage in conversation, because if Monroe County continues to invest in Community, we can only do so by first hearing others with different lived experiences in the places where they are.
“Be the Change You Want to See”
I have tried to be vulnerable in this space, and I encourage you to share your own experiences.
