An ally is someone who is not a member of an underrepresented group but who takes action to support that group to help make their workplace more diverse and inclusive for all.
For workplaces to become truly inclusive it is up to people who hold positions of privilege to be active allies and to take responsibility for making changes that will help others be successful.
Allies at all levels can take action with simple, everyday efforts that make a real difference and in this series, we highlight some things that you can do to be an ally and to support your colleagues from underrepresented groups.
#37: Support your staff networks
Staff Networks can be an important way to inspire and empower employees within the business.
Partners and Senior Leaders should openly support and encourage staff networks, support employees that volunteer their time to staff networks and working towards diversity and inclusion with the workplace.
Individual employees can be great allies by supporting these staff networks, by providing support/help, attending training and events, supporting network initiatives and amplifying the network voices.
It is important that these networks and communities are open to all and everyone knows that they are welcome and encouraged to participate. Allies can play a big part in this.
Read the full “How to be an Ally” series here.
