People are More Important Than Perception | by Justice Means All Of Us | Oct, 2025
“Am I a good ally, and how do I improve?” Initially, this was a question that I was hoping to post and get comments for. My next thought was that nobody would answer, and I needed to change my tactics. I was right, but not for the reasons I thought.
I was hoping for a straightforward, step-by-step answer of what I should do to further my understanding of what various marginalized groups go through, and how I can support them. I am a straight, white woman, and have prioritized standing with people who do not share my privilege. However, when it became clear to me that my question might not reach a wide audience and could go unanswered, I was tempted to give up.
The truth was that, in that moment, I was more concerned about looking silly than furthering the commitment I had made. I thought it would be weird if I poured my heart out on these issues and nobody noticed. Clearly, a part of me still wanted the validation that I was being a good ally.
Upon further reflection, I feel terrible about this. My writing was never meant to boost my ego. The true purpose is to show support for those who do not enjoy my privilege, reflect on how I can do better in this area, and hopefully educate others to do the same. The reason I am choosing to do these things and more is because I am fortunate in the way society views me. I owe it to others who have not had my experience to fight for their dignity. This is not because groups of people are incapable of fighting for themselves — quite the opposite. I am strictly here to show solidarity and provide education for myself and others. Why? Because a human is a human. We are all supposedly guaranteed access to Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness. Yet that is far from accessible for many communities in this country. To quote Dr. King, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” Simply put, we are all in this together, regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or financial status. This is why fighting for collective justice is my most sacred responsibility.
With this in mind, the lesson I learned is one I hope you take with you. It does not matter if it is a long shot or if you may look silly. You may lose some relationships, have some awkward situations, and experience misunderstandings. With that said, people are more important than perception. I know pushing for what is right can be excruciatingly hard, given the risks I have mentioned, and I am not here to guilt anyone who does not have the courage. Just know that the courage you need is inside you. Every one of us possesses the power to use their voice in one way or another (this does not always mean verbally). So, I encourage everyone to take a stand. Even if nobody sees this, I know I am doing the right thing. That is what matters. When I started this, I wanted to make change and teach lessons, and I did that… for myself. This is how we slowly start to change the world — by taking responsibility, one interaction and lesson at a time.
