EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT DEI

Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Becoming a true ally

By Marilex Santiago, DEI Leader & Administrative Coordinator

What does it mean to be an ally? The Wright Foundation explains, “A true ally wants what’s best for you. They hold a vision for you. They see your potential and push you to become the hero they know you are.” What a phenomenal way to support another person, especially when we live in a world where marginalized groups have big battles to face.

PRIDE Month, dedicated to celebration and commemoration of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer pride, serves as a reminder of the importance of allyship. Some of the struggles the LGBTQ+ community face includes being nine times more likely to be victims of a violent crime access to gender-a rming care, homelessness for LGBTQ+ youth, and higher rates of depression for LGBTQ+ veterans. Luckily, anyone can be an ally; it’s a choice. Here are examples of how YOU can be an ally or be a better one:

• Start by learning about various marginalized communities, their histories, and challenges they face. Read books, articles, and personal accounts. Engage with documentaries and movies to gain insight and empathy. Listen and be open to feedback and growth.

• Lift and promote marginalized voices. Share their stories, achievements, and concerns. Use your platform to elevate their voices and advocate for their rights.

• Speak up against discriminatory language and biases. Engage in conversations that challenge harmful beliefs and center the experiences and voices of marginalized communities.

• Show up for community events, donate to organizations promoting equality, and advocate for inclusive policies. Create safe spaces and celebrate the diversity within marginalized communities.

• To be an ally for another person, you must really align yourself with what matters to them. What are their ideals? Do you understand who they really want to become? Not who you’d like them to become for yourself, but who you hope they become for themselves.

Allies are compassionate, empathetic, and understanding. It’s about putting yourself in someone else’s shoes and taking regular action to support your fellow human being.

“Think about the allies in the historic and contemporary myths –Odysseus had Athena and Luke Skywalker had Obi-Wan Kenobi. They didn’t face their quests alone.”-The Heart of the Fight

Engagement & Wellness Calendar

JUNE

Monthly Awareness: PRIDE Month & Men’s Health Awareness Month

Women’s Self Defense Class: June 8, PT For Life Southbury

PTSMC Gear Order: June 16- 28

JULY

Monthly Awareness: Disability Awareness Month

Happy Fourth of July: Tuesday, July 4

Men’s Health Event: Date TBD

AUGUST

Monthly Awareness: Immunization Month

PTSMC Social Hours: August 24 and 25