Understanding How I’m the Problem: Autoethnographic Reflections on Falling into Straight Allyship
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37119/ojs2026.v31i1.947Abstract
What does it feel like to be a novice ally navigating the inevitable tensions between privilege and solidarity? This self-study reflects on allyship from the perspective of a straight cisgender academic who participated in a collaborative arts-based musical drama project celebrating neuroqueer identity. It explores the challenges of belonging and anxiety, the role of a supportive, welcoming community, and the moral complexities of ‘standing with’ rather than ‘standing for’ marginalized groups. A thematic analysis highlights the importance of humility, relationship-building and agency as these emerge within the context of participatory action research (PAR). The paper closes with suggestions for further critical reflection and ongoing challenges. Rather than presenting ‘good allyship’ as a static achievement, the essay maps how an ally’s agency is co-constructed in relation and continuously under development.
Keywords: creative arts-based methods (CAE), straight allyship, critical autoethnography, positionality, critical agency
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Copyright (c) 2026 John Hoben
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