There seems to be this weird notion that you can’t participate in a minority group that you aren’t actually a member of. I’d like to explain why that’s kinda dumb.
I first became aware of this issue while at Presidium, the training that the presidents of MTSU student organizations attend. In my group were multiple organizations for minority groups, but the two that stuck out the most on this topic were the Asian Student Association and the Black Student Union. The presidents of those organizations, Yer and Ashley, respectively, voiced their issues with getting members that aren’t the race stated in the name of each organization. Before hearing this, I had never considered this issue. I always thought “well I’m not the target of that organization, so I won’t be welcome there,” which I know is an idea shared by MANY.
I am the president of MT Lambda, the LGBT+ organization on campus. Leading a minority organization allowed me to experience this issue first hand Hearing things while recruiting like “I support you and wish I could come, but I’m straight” or “I don’t have any gay friends that I could go with, so I wouldn’t fit in.” We always tell people to come regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, but sadly not many straight allies attend our meetings and events.
This is a real issue, not for the numbers and statistics of the group, but for ally-ism. Attending the meetings and events of diverse organizations makes you an actual ally, not just a passive supporter. Being a strong ally is learning and building a deeper understanding of a topic/group. Even if you’re not Black, you can go and learn about the issues the Black community faces. Even if you’re not Asian, you can still learn about Asian culture. Even if you’re not part of the LGBT+ community you can still be an ally. The important part is to take the initiative to be a better ally.
This semester, I have attended events from both of the organizations I mentioned previously, as well as multiple others, including the Caribbean Student Association and the June Anderson Center for Women and Non-Traditional Students. Through all of these, I have learned more about the struggles, the culture, and how to be a better ally. It’s encouraged to ask questions. I promise that none of these diverse organizations will be offended by you wanting to learn more.
To be an ally is to become more cultured, to push change, and to promote acceptance. This is why I implore every single person that reads this article to attend at least one student organization meeting or event that isn’t based to your own demographic. I would love to hear your experiences with pushing to be a better ally, so please don’t hesitate to reach out!