Get uncomfortable and get going on your inclusion practice
Very few people enter this world knowing how to be #inclusive humans.
We learn. We try. We say the wrong things. We remove acquaintances who are not good for us. We grow through selfish, toxic behaviors and apologize and mean it. For humans who have much privilege, it’s important to identify and unlearn entitlement. Inclusion can be work, but it can be so rewarding that you keep going.
But know this… very few people succeed at anything without practice and making mistakes.
On an authentic equity and inclusion journey, fear of making a mistake is the first discomfort to embrace. “Understanding” is a privilege to surrender. When comfort and ego are prioritized over the idea of advocating for humans (and their rights), progress will be prevented… for everyone.
TRUTH: I’ve been uninformed and caused harm in the past. I worked through uninformed opinions, my own internalized oppression(s), and learned to stop hurting others with carelessness — language, actions, inaction. I’ve been called in, called out, and sometimes distanced from.
I had to decide how I want to be known AFTER my interactions with others and the legacy I want to leave.
So, how can you do this? How can you move from making mistakes to making an intentional equity and inclusion practice that is forward-moving and builds support for those you advocate for?
First — Get comfortable with being uncomfortable and with not knowing and understanding.
Second — Put aside attachments to “ally” as a label and do “the work” without being seen or craving allyship as a token identity. Because allyship is like knighthood, you can’t bestow it upon yourself, shouldn’t revel in the label, and you earn recognition as a result of genuine efforts and impact.
Third — Advocating for others, even within your own community is ongoing effort. Treat it like a discovery not a destination and know that you WILL make mistakes.
I’m not ashamed to admit that I still self-educate. I’m still growing. Still being called in and grateful for it. Still accepting education when someone I advocate for has the time and listening to learn when folks don’t (have time to educate me).
Don’t wait for it to fall in your lap. You won’t understand without effort. Embrace the discovery. Welcome the discomfort. And start on your path of education. This is how you choose your #inclusion path and craft your legacy.
