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Tuesday, September 17, 2019
"I’m Not Interested in More Allies. I Need Advocates." A conversation with Michael J. Bobbitt and Raymond O. Caldwell
DC Theatre Scene: What is it like for leaders of Color to work in White theatres? This Howlround Theatre Commons interview is between two well-known Washington area leaders: Michael J. Bobbitt, former Artistic Director of Adventure Theatre MTC, now Artistic Director of New Repertory Theatre in Boston, and director Raymond O. Caldwell, Artistic Director of Theater Alliance.
1 comment:
Mia Romsaas
said...
Needing more advocates, not allies, is an interesting idea, but now that I think about it, I agree. It is frustrating, when people say they are allies to something, but do not actually do anything to support or fight for the cause. It feels like the (generalizing here) the white, straight girls who go to Pride to take instagram pictures but don’t actually do anything to promote LGBT+ rights or people. Being an ally is a good start, but you are not actually helping until you become an advocate. For some people, maybe being an ally is all they are capable of doing, but for those who have especially have privilege in the area in discussion, being an advocate is what actually matters. By not doing anything and just labelling yourself as an “Ally”, it could be argued you are using your privilege to “look good” or to turn the other cheek. People in this position must remember there are others who can’t hide, and need your support.
1 comment:
Needing more advocates, not allies, is an interesting idea, but now that I think about it, I agree. It is frustrating, when people say they are allies to something, but do not actually do anything to support or fight for the cause. It feels like the (generalizing here) the white, straight girls who go to Pride to take instagram pictures but don’t actually do anything to promote LGBT+ rights or people. Being an ally is a good start, but you are not actually helping until you become an advocate. For some people, maybe being an ally is all they are capable of doing, but for those who have especially have privilege in the area in discussion, being an advocate is what actually matters. By not doing anything and just labelling yourself as an “Ally”, it could be argued you are using your privilege to “look good” or to turn the other cheek. People in this position must remember there are others who can’t hide, and need your support.
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