I have been thinking a lot lately about the term “allyship,” and what it truly means to me as I continue to move through my DEI journey. Does it mean calling out unfairness or injustice against another right when it occurs? Or does it mean advocating for not only your basic human and civil rights but also the rights of another — even though you may not always see eye-to-eye with them? I would argue that allyship encompasses both things (among many others), and so I challenge you (and myself) to consider how we “show up” for others each day?

Are we “showing up” for our family, friends, colleagues, members, and clients in ways that are both meaningful and authentic? If you are not quite where you would like to be in this allyship space (I know I am not!), that’s ok – we are all on a continuous path of learning, growing, and reflection, and there is always room to do and be better!

The next time you have an opportunity to “show up” meaningfully and authentically for someone, recognize and honor that as an opportunity to connect with and support another fellow human being! You may never know just how much of an impact you might have on them by showing that you are genuine, you are thoughtful, and you are a true ally!

What are you doing today to help create change within your organization?