Allyship Into Action

Allies advocate for others, especially with individuals from different social identity groups. The delivery of health care is also a practice of allyship. It requires a lifetime of learning, humility, the expectation of imperfection, and persistence in the pursuit of healing, and most importantly, being comfortable with being uncomfortable. In order to create equitable environments, veterinary leadership must develop proficiency in their personal knowledge and professional application of equity and anti-racism. They need to engage and understand the content of the theory and elements of equity as well as have a grasp of the motivational aspects needed to effect culture change. Further, these competencies should be linked to behaviors and outcomes that reflect our professions core values and commitment to serve according to the Veterinary Oath, which states that veterinarians will "use their knowledge and skills for the benefit of society." This requires the understanding of their own privilege and power in the health care system. With the goal to deliver optimized care to animals and their people in a culturally sensitive manner, veterinary leaders need to engage and understand the content of the theory and elements of equity and allyship as well as have a grasp of the motivational aspects needed to effect culture change. Further, these competencies should be linked to behaviors and outcomes that reflect our professions core values and commitment to serve all communities. Three well-documented frameworks follow in an equity proficiency model that are proven themes that promote allyship.