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Active Allyship & Advocacy

In a world that seems to grow more complex and challenging by the day, it has never been more crucial to talk about active allyship and why I choose to continue working as a lived experience survivor advocate and ally. Reflecting on recent events – the polarising U.S. election, the ongoing devastation in Gaza, and the heartbreaking reality of domestic violence deaths in Australia – it is clear that silence and inaction are not options for those of us committed to creating a better, safer world.

Why Active Allyship Matters

Active allyship is more than a buzzword; it is a call to action. It requires us to step outside of our comfort zones, confront injustices, and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with those who need our support. For survivors of child sexual abuse, domestic violence, and other forms of trauma, active allyship can be the lifeline that fosters hope, resilience, and healing.

The power of allyship lies in its ability to amplify voices that have been silenced. Survivors are often told to stay quiet, to minimise their experiences, or to carry their pain alone. By showing up as allies, we reject these harmful narratives. We send a clear message: You are seen. You are heard. You are believed. You are not alone.

Reflecting on the Current State of the World

The U.S. election has once again highlighted the deep divisions within society. Elected officials and their policies and rhetoric often neglect the most vulnerable, and survivors are frequently overlooked in the broader conversation about social justice. Meanwhile, the destruction in Gaza as the Palestinian survivors return to their homes and face the long road ahead of rebuilding their lives reminds us of the devastating impact of systemic violence and the urgent need for global solidarity. Closer to home in Australia, the ongoing deaths due to domestic violence are a tragic reminder of how far we still have to go in protecting those who are most at risk.

These events are not isolated; they are interconnected. They reveal the pervasive nature of power imbalances and the ways in which marginalised groups are often left to fend for themselves. As a survivor and advocate, I see these patterns mirrored in the stories of those I work with every day. And while the scale may differ, the underlying truths remain the same: injustice thrives in silence, and change demands action.

Why I Choose to Continue This Work

As a lived experience survivor advocate, I have the privilege and responsibility of using my voice to effect change. My journey has taught me the transformative power of truth – both in speaking it and in creating spaces where others feel safe to do the same. It is not an easy path, but it is a necessary one.

I continue this work because I believe in the power of community. The community I have developed is built on the foundations of truth, power, and connection, and these values guide everything I do. I have witnessed the strength that emerges when survivors come together, share their stories, and support one another. In these moments, healing becomes possible, and hope takes root.

I also choose to remain an ally because I know what it feels like to navigate a world that often feels indifferent to pain. I have experienced firsthand the difference that empathy, understanding, and active support can make. Being an ally means standing in solidarity, not out of pity but out of a shared commitment to justice and equity.

How We Can All Show Up

Active allyship is not reserved for advocates or those with lived experience. It is something we can all practice in our daily lives. Here are a few ways to start:

  • Educate Yourself: Learn about the experiences of survivors and the systemic issues they face. Knowledge is a powerful tool for dismantling ignorance and prejudice. 
  • Speak Out: Use your voice to challenge harmful narratives and advocate for change, whether in your workplace, community or online. 
  • Support Survivors: Show up for the people in your life who have experienced trauma. Listen without judgment, believe their stories, and offer tangible support. 
  • Demand Accountability: Hold systems and institutions accountable for their role in perpetuating harm. Advocate for policies that prioritise safety, justice, and healing. 
  • Invest in Community: Join or support organisations that are working to create safe spaces for survivors. Your time, resources, and energy can make a meaningful difference. 

The challenges we face as a society may feel overwhelming, but they are not insurmountable. Active allyship and advocacy are powerful tools for creating the change we so desperately need. By standing together, speaking our truth, and refusing to be silent in the face of injustice, we can build a world where survivors are not just seen and heard but truly supported and empowered.

For me, the decision to continue this work is deeply personal. It is rooted in my own experiences, my unwavering belief in the power of community, and my commitment to leaving the world a better place for the next generation. And so, I will keep showing up, for as long as it takes, because this is how we create a future defined by hope, resilience, and justice.

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