“An Ally is a person who takes a stand against social injustice directed at members of a group targeted
by discrimination and prejudice. An Ally works to be an agent of social change. Some of the characteristics of a good Ally…
…is proud of her/his own culture and heritage
…takes responsibility for learning about a targeted group’s heritage
…listens to and respects the perspectives and experiences of target group members
…recognizes that unlearning oppressive beliefs and actions is a lifelong process, and welcomes each learning
opportunity
…acts against social injustice out of a belief that it is in his/her own sphere of influence
…is willing to make mistakes, learn from them, and try again
…understands that there is a connection among all forms of social injustice
…believes she/he can make a difference by acting and speaking out against injustice
…knows how to cultivate support from potential allies
…is willing to take risks, try new behaviors, and act in spite of his/her own fear and resistance of others
…is willing to be informed about own behavior and attitudes and consider change”
From
Teaching for Diversity
and Social Injustice. 
