College Connection | Fall 2023
OVC students provide guidance on allyship in the profession
College Connection | Fall 2023
OVC students provide guidance on allyship in the profession
The College is committed to inclusion , diversity , equity and accessibility ( IDEA ). As part of our 2023 IDEA Action Plan , we are pleased to provide opportunities to enhance learnings . In the article below , Ontario Veterinary College ( OVC ) students and members of OVC Pride Veterinary Medical Community Alyssa and Adrienne share their insight on allyship .
Glossary of terminology used in this article
POC - People of colour : a term that encompasses people of non-white races , or mixed races
LGBTQIA2 + - refers to people who identify as Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgendered Queer Intersex Asexual Two-Spirited +
Microaggression - subtle or indirect behaviours or statements that either intentionally or unintentionally results in a prejudiced attitude or discrimination towards a member of a marginalized group
By : Alyssa MacFadyen & Adrienne Lee , OVC Pride Veterinary Medical Community
Allyship in the veterinary profession
When we think of allyship , the first image that comes to mind is often physical representation - perhaps marching in a protest , or attending a Pride event . Although those are great ways to show support for the community , true allyship extends beyond that .
So what is allyship ?
• A true ally self-reflects to recognize their unearned positions of privilege in society . They are empathetic , open-minded , and willing to learn . They actively and consistently seek out ways to educate themselves and curb biases of marginalized communities . A true ally also takes responsibility for current injustices , advocates for , and takes action to support these groups .
In the age of social media , “ allyship ” appears to be trendy . For example , during pride month , Instagram is bombarded with “ Happy Pride ” posts and ads from companies selling Pride merchandise . T-shirts , etc ., are great visual demonstrations of solidarity , but is this true allyship if it fizzles out after June ?
What is performative allyship ?
• Performative allyship is when someone does not take responsibility or educate themself on matters , yet presents themself as an ally . This is mostly done for personal gain of a positive image , especially on social media platforms .
Performative allyship is harmful because it doesn ’ t sustainably benefit people from marginalized communities . It ’ s like putting warm towels over wet blankets on the metal dental table – the water is going to seep through & the dog is going to get cold .
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Alyssa : Hello ! I ’ m Alyssa and am privileged to be studying at the OVC in my third year in the DVM program . I have interests in so many ( too many ) things including all the species I ’ ve encountered so far , ophthalmology , emergency and internal medicine . I am the new president of OVC Pride Veterinary Medical Community ( VMC ). OVC Pride VMC is dear to my heart . I love that we can advocate for our community , while also creating connections to the veterinary field . I am proud to be half south Indian & am passionate about diversity & inclusion !
Adrienne : Hi there ! My name is Adrienne and I ’ m a veterinary student currently studying at the OVC in my third year . I have an interest in small animal and wildlife medicine , as well as neurology . I am currently the events coordinator for OVC Pride VMC , and have been for the past two years . I love being a part of this group as it presents a safe space where we can share our experiences , and learn from each other as well .
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