For this issue we asked, “What does it mean to you to be an ally or an accomplice? What are meaningful ways that people have shown allyship and accompliceship to you or to the bi+ community on a large scale or individual level? How do you practice allyship and accompliceship for others, and does your experience as a bi+ person impact the way you do so?”
In social justice education, an “accomplice” refers to someone who participates actively in dismantling oppressive systems by using their privilege to challenge the status quo and support marginalized groups. It is going beyond passive “allyship” to take concrete actions that may involve personal risk or discomfort to create meaningful change. All accomplices are allies, but not all allies are accomplices.
This subject has been central to my thinking for years. I remember clearly the times when straight, lesbian, gay, and/or trans people supported me as a bisexual woman, and how much these actions meant—and still mean—to me. I’ve also tried as best I know how to be a good ally and accomplice to others. There are actions I’ve taken of which I am proud, and at times I have not lived up to my own expectations. Being an accomplice is an ongoing learning process and journey.
We hope you find value in this issue.
~Robyn