Blog #1 Zane Hinely Section 170

"Talking, speaking out, demonstrating your knowledge, and making yourself known are often taken as signs of  "real" engagement, leadership, and contribution..." (Russo, 2013)

This quote goes on to say that these traits are desired/prized with in many social justice groups. I feel not only in social justice groups are these traits prized or are used. In the United States being an extrovert rather than introverted is more desired in jobs, and social settings. Once again these traits can also be measure in a pop culture setting when various groups measure "fandom" in many areas like music, movies, anime, and the list goes on.

Why this quote personally jumped out to me and later in the reading as seeing this type of commitment as being destructive and non-inclusive to the very groups that are advocating for minority groups and inclusivity. Often times with in our culture silence is looked upon as not caring or weakness.  Russo challenges that by saying sometimes being the listener can be more humbling and better served to really hear the needs of a group/individual.

I think this applies to myself in many ways. Example as a cisgendered white male to apply what Russo is suggesting that I should not be at the center of advocating for various minority groups. The best thing that I could do is to listen because its not about "me". I could not possibly know what it is like to be a male of color, because of that how could I advocate for that group by being front and center of their movement. I may empathize what struggles a young male of color faces and listen to how I can support and maybe even empower them even if that means being sidelined. However, this also does not mean I stick my head in the sand. Allowing to be sidelined will also give rise to leaders to step up that best resemble the groups needs.

In conclusion Russo lays down how to be an ally and a advocate with out making it about yourself. Its important to remove ones ego step aside and listen. Being present is important but not overpowering to make it about myself.