Equity and anti-oppression in child welfare

Allyship refers to a situation or time when a person in a position of privilege supports, shows up for, amplifies the voices of, and otherwise works in solidarity with marginalized and oppressed groups. 

While "ally" is sometimes used to describe people using their privilege for these ends, others have problematized this term for a number of reasons: some criticize it as a meaningless label that can all too easily be adopted by those not actually putting in the work; many also believe that allyship cannot be construed as an identity – instead, allyship should be understood as an ongoing process based on learning and unlearning, action, and accountability.

In an effort to address the issues with existing terminology, different terms have been suggested, such as "accomplice" and "co-conspirator." Another approach is to shift focus away from being an ally and towards practicing allyship.

Effective allyship may look different depending on the context and individuals involved, however there is generally consensus on how people with privilege should approach allyship and work with marginalized and oppressed groups. In order to practice effective allyship, individuals need to acknowledge their privilege; recognize they aren't the experts; listen to and take direction from those with lived experiences of marginalization and oppression, as well as resistance and organizing; put in the work, including educating themselves about systems of oppression; and accept criticism and be accountable for mistakes.

Allyship in child welfare means listening to and sharing power with communities oppressed by the system, as well as advocating for and allocating resources towards programs and services that support equity-seeking groups, including African Canadians, immigrants and refugees, Indigenous people, LGBTQ2S+ people, low-income people, people with disabilities and mental health issues, racialized people, and single-mother families.

There are various ways to practice allyship in child welfare, from allyship at the individual worker level, to allyship at the agency, multi-agency, or sector level.

For example, at the individual level, front-line workers can adopt a "power with" approach in their work with children, youth, and families, for example, by ensuring the voices of service users are centered in their interactions, by being transparent and providing information upfront and in appropriate formats, and by helping families navigate the system. CAS staff who identify as having privilege (e.g. White privilege, able-bodied privilege, cisgender privilege, etc.) can also use their privilege to challenge discriminatory and oppressive policies and practices within their organization, for example, by addressing harmful comments and microaggressions or advocating for inclusive and accessible facilities.