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Performative allyship is one of those things that really gets to me. It’s been a while since I spoke of my own experiences with racism in academia, particularly in palaeosciences and archaeology here in South Africa because it’s triggering- to me & people I love.
First, I am privileged and it’s important to acknowledge that. Being classified Coloured, coming from a middle class upbringing means that I have been afforded a better life than the majority of Black South Africans because the Apartheid system deemed it so.
It also means that my lived experience differs because I’ve not been subject to many of the challenges, pain and trauma my colleagues and friends who are Black South Africans (and Black Africans) have experienced on a daily basis.
But even my relative privilege did not spare me from the racism I was subjected to for years during my postgraduate studies. It’s not an isolated incident, it’s not coming from ignorance. It’s definitely not the first time.
It’s wild to me that there is an assumption that racists aren’t ‘educated’ or what is deemed ‘respectable’ in society. Because in my experience with academia they carry the title Professor, they sit as directors of ‘world renowned’ institutes.
And they are protected by their privilege, rank and network of spineless minions who reinforce their beliefs. The minions think they are better because they might not be as blatant about their beliefs and behaviors but really, they are no better and as damaging.
These are the same folks who know their colleagues are problematic and are MORE THAN happy to tell you it’s wrong in hushed whispers but when it’s time to show up and put that privilege to good use?! They’re on the other side of the fence- gaslighting too.
It’s also wild to me how rank is somehow only valid when it is a white person who holds it. I have been disrespected many times by white men who are junior to me, because they don’t see a reason to respect me, how can they when they don’t acknowledge my humanity?
Allies will send messages like “he was out of order” and continue to laugh and smile with those very same people, continue to support and uplift them in academic spaces. Contributing again towards reinforcing this toxic system. Tell me again how you value my opinions then? 
We’re not here waiting for your “you’re so strong, I wish I was like you” comments. Because honestly that’s bullshit. And it’s a cop out. You don’t admire our strength, you’re just relieved your privilege protects you from ever being in the same position.
There are so many examples I could share in this thread of performative allyship. But I’ll be threading for days.
It’s dangerous to create an illusion of being a safe space for POC only to feed off of their experiences and pain like a parasite.
It’s dangerous to create an illusion of being a safe space for POC only to feed off of their experiences and pain like a parasite.
Performative allies comfort themselves by saying “I’m not as bad” at the expense of those they claim to support.
That’s that on that. You’re no better than the monsters you crucify in the shadows but celebrate in the light. We see you. We’ve always seen you.
That’s that on that. You’re no better than the monsters you crucify in the shadows but celebrate in the light. We see you. We’ve always seen you.
