She Strengthens

The True Meaning of Advocacy in the Workplace

More Than Just Words

When it comes to advocating for social justice, there’s no shortcut to flipping a switch and becoming an ally overnight. It takes hard work, dedication, and a willingness to confront our own biases and complicities. The recent surge of support for the Black Lives Matter movement on social media has been encouraging, but it’s only the beginning.

Beyond Performative Allyship

As a mentor, I’ve seen Black students and staff face backlash for speaking out about racism. As a researcher, I’ve witnessed educational institutions with questionable track records on racism suddenly claim to be allies. And as a writer, I’ve seen publishing industry leaders tout the need for diverse voices while ignoring their own role in perpetuating inequality. True advocacy requires more than just words – it demands action and accountability.

Understanding the Struggle

To be an effective advocate in the workplace, you must first understand the daily struggles Black people face. From covert racism to the burden of being expected to lead diversity initiatives, Black employees carry a heavy load. They shouldn’t have to be exceptional to receive respect and support. Non-Black allies must recognize their own privilege and use it to amplify Black voices.

Creating a Safe Workspace

If you truly believe that Black lives matter, it’s time to create a workspace where Black people can feel seen, heard, and safe. This means more than just hiring Black employees – it means creating a culture of transparency, accountability, and fairness. Hold yourself accountable for demanding fair hiring practices, equal pay, and safe working conditions.

Proactive Solidarity

Real advocacy requires proactive and intentional action. It’s not enough to simply state your support – you must be willing to take concrete steps to create change. This might mean negotiating for better pay for your Black colleagues, calling out discrimination in the workplace, or demanding greater transparency from your employer.

Establishing a Pattern of Justice

Advocacy is a lifelong journey, not a one-time event. It requires continuous self-reflection, a willingness to learn from your mistakes, and a commitment to creating lasting change. By establishing a pattern of justice and solidarity, you can help build a workplace where Black people can thrive.

A Call to Action

So what can you do to become a true advocate for Black lives in the workplace? Start by educating yourself about the struggles Black people face. Use your privilege to amplify Black voices and demand change from your employer. And most importantly, be willing to listen, learn, and grow – even when it gets uncomfortable. The fight for justice is worth it.