Welcome to day 19

Topic: Allies & Advocates, Edition 3

As we near the end of the challenge, look back to the beginning of this journey. Have you been intentional when using your voice as an equity ally or advocate? How has this challenge helped you develop as an ally or advocate?

Reminder, no matter who you are or where you are on the journey, you will not be perfect. Try to digest the information slowly and go at your own pace. Allow time for reflection and avoid feeling pressured to tackle everything.

Being an ally is not an identity, it is a continual process

2020 was disruptive and devastating in so many ways. Yet, we persevere through building connections, seeking deeper understanding, and translating that disruption into action. 2020 triggered widespread reflection and activism to advance civil rights and racial equity. Many people say they are not sure why this moment was different. But there has been a shock to the system and now is the perfect time to be more intentional in your own efforts to learn and grow as an equity ally or advocate.

Remember, being an ally is not an identity, it is a continual process — something you must work at, be intentional about, and commit to day-in and day-out. Kick start your journey or add a boost with the challenge menu below.

Challenge Menu

Look Different

The MTV YouTube series “Look Different” examines our biases about how people of color look and act. Watch this series and do the tough work. (3 minutes)

From Unaware To Accomplice: The Ally Continuum

In this episode of her podcast “The Will to Change,” Jennifer Brown discusses the Allyship Continuum and how you can go from unaware to accomplice. (38 minutes)

Why Now, White People?

Explore the nuance and overarching themes of why white people are getting more vocal about racial equity and taking steps to become better allies. (28 minutes)

Civil Rights Leaders Who May Not Appear In Your History Book

Many of the leaders who played a significant role in Atlanta’s history during the struggle for civil rights do not appear in history textbooks. WABE has compiled a list of a few of these lesser-known activists that dedicated their lives to equality.

We Are Losing a Generation of Civil-Rights Memories

America’s response to the pandemic harkens back to ugly times in our country’s history. However, to recognize that, we need to know our elders’ stories.

National Leaders Advocating for Civil Rights and Racial Equity Today

Today’s civil rights leaders are addressing the challenges and injustices faced by people of color, the LGBTQ+ community, women, undocumented immigrants, and the Muslim community.

Atlanta Must Lead the Way in Advancing Racial Equity

In June 2020, Atlantans took to the streets to advocate for reform and the city evoked again its totem of the phoenix. Will we rise from the ashes of inequality, anger, and violence to become a more resilient and equitable city? Read this piece in Atlanta Magazine by Nathaniel Smith of Partnership for Southern Equity.

Take Action

Today in Greater Atlanta nearly 500,000 children live in communities lacking the basic opportunities and resources needed to thrive. Lives born with pure potential are too often offset by the disparities that a zip code or race produces, holding us back for an equitable Greater Atlanta.

United Way of Greater Atlanta
40 Courtland St., N.E.
Atlanta, GA 30303

404-527-7200
unitedwayatlanta.org

Thank You

The following organizations have provided funds to support the United Way Racial Equity and Healing Fund.

Anthem
Assurant
Betty and Davis Fitzgerald Foundation
Gas South

Genuine Parts Company
Global Payments Inc
Printpack
Robert W. Woodruff Foundation
Southern Company Gas

Target HQ
The Annie E. Casey Foundation
The Coca-Cola Company
Truist

"To say nothing is saying something. You must denounce things you are against or one might believe that you support things you really do not."

– Germany Kent

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