Allyship:

Just what kind of ship is it?

Allyship is an interesting concept that has several definitions, but only one refers to the quality of support. This keynote address critiques the concept of allyship and how its loose definitions can lead to performativity when it comes to being an ally.

Unless allyship demands personal investment and the transformation of inequitable interpersonal relations, it is not only meaningless, but perpetuates harm. Dr. Sinclair’s session draws upon Indigenous knowledge and ethics as a philosophical framework against which allyship can be critiqued and potentially transformed as an act of decolonization.

This opening keynote address for our conference will form the organizing framework for our other conference sessions and breakout groups. Dr. Sinclair will also return at the end of the conference to participate in a closing panel discussion on Saturday afternoon, to assist attendees in reflecting upon the themes raised during the conference.

Raven Sinclair, PhD

Dr. Raven Sinclair is Nehiyaw/Cree, Young Dog Assiniboine, Crow, and Red River Métis. She is a member of George Gordon First Nation of Treaty #4, Saskatchewan. She was a full professor in the Faculty of Social Work at the University of Regina from 2005- 2022, and has 20 years of Indigenous research and research ethics experience in Indigenous child welfare, youth suicide, cultural identity, bullying, and community based research. Dr. Sinclair is an author, filmmaker, researcher, consultant and public speaker, and she facilitates workshops on communication, lateral violence intervention, and cultural competency.