Anti-Racist Ally: An Introduction to Activism and Action

Anti-racism activist Williams expands on her @officialmillennialblack Instagram account in this well-meaning but superficial guide on how white people can become active allies to marginalized groups. Williams walks readers through concepts such as intersectionality and structural racism, debunks misconceptions (“I can’t be racist. My wife/husband/boss/best friend/dentist is Black”), and advises readers to support Black-owned businesses and donate to charities that provide “direct assistance” to those in need. Her suggestions for overcoming guilt about past beliefs and behaviors include “look[ing] for ways to make reparations without centring your transformation in the process” and “us[ing] the knowledge that you have been capable of change to push for even greater development in yourself and those around you.” Unfortunately, Williams offers no examples of individuals doing the work she calls for. Admonitions such as “before you post a picture or even act, take a moment to consider: would you still be doing this if no one saw it?” are fairly banal, and the absence of guidance on how to find and support anti-racist organizations is a glaring omission. This falls short. (Feb.)