Stop Saving Us: Embrace Coalition Power!
We’ve all heard a lot about allyship in the workplace. For years, it’s been at the heart of discussions about Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB). But lately, I’ve been reflecting on how it feels like a model that’s no longer enough. Allyship, as we know it, has served its purpose. Now, it’s time to move forward and focus on something more powerful: coalition-building. This isn’t about being helped from the side-lines—it’s about standing together, working hand in hand for real, lasting change. Let me explain why this shift is crucial.
Breaking the Cycle: The Need for Change
First, let me say this: I’m not here to criticise allyship or dismiss the role it’s played. I’ve had allies in my life, and many of their efforts have made a positive difference. But I’ve also had experiences where allyship, well-meaning as it may have been, missed the mark. And I’m sure I’m not the only one.
Picture this: an ally stepping in to help without asking if you need it. Sound familiar? I can recall a number of occasions in my career when a well-intentioned ally spoke for me, assuming they were doing the right thing. In one instance, a colleague took it upon themselves to address an issue on my behalf—without even consulting me. The result? I felt as though my own voice was side-lined, even though I was perfectly capable of speaking up for myself.
This is the problem with allyship: sometimes, it reinforces the very power dynamics we’re trying to dismantle. When someone assumes I need saving, it becomes less about solidarity and more about them exercising their power. It’s not a partnership—it’s a one-way transaction where they help, and I’m the one being helped. And honestly, that doesn’t feel supportive. It feels like I’m being stifled.
Why We Need Coalition-Building
So, what’s the alternative? Coalition-building. Unlike allyship, coalitions are grounded in shared responsibility, mutual respect, and the recognition that we’re all in this together. It’s not about one group coming to the rescue of another. It’s about standing side by side, acknowledging that no one has all the answers. We each bring something to the table, and we all benefit when equity and inclusion become a reality.
The beauty of coalition-building is that it levels the playing field. There’s no hierarchy—no ‘saviours’ and no one being ‘saved’. Instead, there are partners who are willing to listen, learn, and take action together. Coalition-building is transformative because it acknowledges that true liberation is collective. If one of us is still struggling, none of us are truly free.
In my own experience, when people have joined me in this work as equals—when they don’t assume they need to speak for me but instead ask how we can work together—it’s created a deeper, more meaningful connection. It’s the kind of solidarity that makes me feel like we’re truly in it together, each of us contributing our strengths and committing to the cause.
Reflections From M.E
Let me share something personal. There was a time in my life when I was often the only Black woman in the room, and I didn’t always feel confident enough to use my voice. At that time, I appreciated allies who stepped in, thinking they were helping me avoid difficult situations. But as I’ve grown, both in confidence and in embracing my identity, I’ve realised how crucial it is to own my voice and my power.
When an ally would speak up on my behalf, it didn’t just frustrate me—it made me feel small. It sent the unspoken message that I wasn’t capable of navigating these challenges on my own. But I was. And I am. What I needed was someone to walk beside me, not someone who felt the need to lead the way for me.
This is why I’m such a strong advocate for coalition-building now. I don’t need saving. I need partners—people who trust in my ability to handle my part and are willing to join me as we work towards something greater, together.
Let’s Build Coalitions, Not Just Rely on Allies
So here’s my call to you, my colleagues and readers: it’s time to shift from being allies to building coalitions. Let’s engage in this work not as rescuers and rescued, but as partners, all contributing to the shared goal of equity and justice.
Coalition-building is about relationships. It’s built on trust, mutual accountability, and a shared commitment to change. It’s about showing up consistently, even when it’s uncomfortable or inconvenient. It’s about recognising that we’re all connected, and that the only way forward is together.
Ask yourself: are you ready to be part of a coalition? Are you ready to stand alongside others, to listen deeply, and to contribute to a movement bigger than yourself? Because this work is too important to be driven by ego or the desire for quick fixes. It’s about creating a future where everyone’s voice is valued and where power is shared, not imposed.
Let’s take this next step, together. In coalition, we have the strength to create the lasting change we all want to see.
Join the Conversation
Join the Conversation
I hope Mabinty Esho's DEIB Digest inspires you to embrace diversity and become an advocate for equity, inclusion, and belonging. If you’ve enjoyed reading this article and want to hear more of my thoughts, reflections, and insights, please like, comment, and subscribe!
Thank you for being a part of this journey towards a more inclusive and equitable world. Together, we can create a world where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.
