Allyship vs. performative activism

As we continue to partake in this notion of community at CSB+SJU, I would like for us to understand two different words and how they affect our community on these campuses.

A quick Google search of the word ally or allyship will give you a basic definition like this: “Such association with the members of a marginalized or mistreated group to which one does not belong” (Merriam-Webster). Now, let’s find out what performer means. Performer means “A person who entertains an audience” (a quick Google search). Simple definition, right? This is what some of our Bennie and Johnnie friends have been doing. They have been trying to entertain people of color and other marginalized people on these campuses by pretending to be an advocate in large groups.

I say pretending because when they are behind closed doors with their families and friends, their whole identity of allyship goes out the door. The fiery advocates that we see at Q-PLUS events, IWL empowerment events, cultural club gatherings, etc. are the ones letting people in their close circles use racist slurs, misogynistic language and homophobic terminology. The real kicker is that some of them will join in the “fun” and use this type of hateful language as well.

So now that we have identified these people (look around you or at yourself) let’s get to the nitty gritty. They, or y’all, need to stop calling yourselves allies, and y’all need to start calling yourselves performers. You perform performative activism which is defined as “activism that is done to increase one’s social capital rather than because of one’s devotion to a cause.” If you are trying to get goody points, stop right now. We don’t need you laughing in our faces and telling us about how you think racism and homophobia is bad but are spewing the same kind of hate. You should put your money where your mouth is and be speaking up against the things you supposedly “hate.” We are laughing at you, not with you. We know the truth. Be bold in your hate or be bold in your love for those who are marginalized. Start asking if you’re an ally or a performer, because we are done trying to decipher what you are.