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.
#6: Invite Colleagues to Speak and enable them to be Heard
It is important to allow underrepresented groups an opportunity to participate in meetings and conversations.
An ally can help ensure that marginalized voices are both heard and respected. For example, when someone proposes a good idea, repeat it and give them credit at a team meeting.
However, there are times where you might need to go a step further and ensure that members of underrepresented groups within your firm are invited to speak in the first place. This might be by specifically inviting them to attend meetings and giving them opportunities to speak.
Alternatively, this might be giving them a role or opportunity that enables them to speak and be heard.
Read the full “How to be an Ally” series here.
