International Center for Ethics in the Sciences and Humanities (IZEW)

Role play White Allyship

Allyship is a concept that originated in the context of anti-discrimination work. Allies are individuals who are aware of their own privileges and actively take action against the respective form of discrimination. In the game, participants take on different roles to test how to deal with a racist incident in a realistic way. There are three central roles: 1.) the ally; 2.) the person affected; and 3.) the non-ally colleagues. An additional role can also be taken on: 4.) observers who watch the events from the outside and then give feedback from their perspective. Ideally, the role of the person making racist comments is taken on by the instructor so as not to put the other participants in an uncomfortable or stressful position and at the same time to ensure that the game runs smoothly.

Where can I find the tool?

PowerPoint for role play

Contact

Marcel Vondermaßen
marcel.vondermassen@izew.uni-tuebingen.de

How does the tool work?

More about allyship

It is also important to recognise the difficulties that can arise when practising allyship, such as stress, lack of quick-wittedness or fear of reacting incorrectly in certain situations. It is equally important to address potential pitfalls, including saviourism (feeling called upon to rescue marginalised people), feeling overwhelmed, powerlessness or lack of knowledge. This reflection helps to practise allyship consciously, responsibly and realistically.
As an ally, one should reflect on one's own privileges and educate oneself independently about racism and discrimination. You should use the resources available to you to actively combat discrimination – for example, by amplifying marginalised voices and creating spaces where they can gain visibility and influence. It is also important to network with other allies. This enables one to become a multiplier for solidarity and discrimination-sensitive action.