BECOMING AND FOSTERING ALLIES AND ACCOMPLICES THROUGH AUTHENTIC RELATIONSHIPS: CHOOSING JUSTICE OVER COMFORT

Abstract

This reflective case study explores the ongoing process of developing and fostering allies and accomplices across privilege, considering how individual and systemic levels interact within interpersonal relationships. Using our longstanding relationships, we highlight key conceptual, relational, and emotional processes and strategies involved in ally and accomplice development. We consider the essential roles of self-reflection, cultural humility, action, and re-engagement after disconnections; and explore the rewards of building authentic relationships across difference, including the ability to work across difference to contribute to dismantling systems of oppression.

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Acknowledgements

The authors wish to thank the many colleagues, students, scholars, and activists who have contributed to their growth as developing accomplices and advocates for social justice.

Disclosure Statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Data availability statement

Data sharing is not applicable to this article as no new data outside of that available within the article were created or analyzed in this study.