As national headlines swirl about organizations dismantling DEI programs, revising websites, or pulling back from public statements, much of the conversation has focused on institutional rollback trends.
But what if the more dangerous erosion isn’t happening at the organizational level, but rather, the individual?
Let’s talk about the Silent Ally
From 2018 to 2023, we witnessed a surge of visible allyship. People updated their bios. They spoke on panels. They amplified voices. They mentored, marched, published, and “hashtagged.”
But in 2024 and now 2025, some of those same individuals are noticeably …absent. No social feeds. No volunteering. No subtle check-ins. No engagement in committees. No attendance at educational forums.
Before we rush to judgment, it’s important to acknowledge that many people are recalibrating. In this environment, speaking up can feel risky. Some feel uncertain about what’s appropriate to say–or exhausted from the emotional labor of past years.
And let’s be honest: the risk tolerance has changed.
But here’s another truth we must sit with: silence has a cost too. Especially when coming from those who once had volume.
Understanding the Lens of the Silent Ally
Let’s extend grace—but also curiosity. Some possible internal narratives of the silent ally might include:
- “I care deeply, but I’m not sure how to help anymore.”
- “I don’t want to say the wrong thing.”
- “My priorities have shifted—temporarily.”
- “I’m unsure what allyship looks like when my institution is pulling back.”
- “I did my part before. Does it have to be ongoing?”
To that, we might respond with empathy—but also a gentle challenge. Because health equity, inclusion, and justice are not trends to rotate in and out of. They are commitments that show up in how we deliver care and serve others —especially in the absence of applause.
If You’ve Been Quiet, Here’s How to Re-Engage
Let this be your invitation back in.
- Audit your silence. When was the last time you advocated for inclusion in your space? What made you pause?
- Pick a lane. You don’t have to lead a movement. But you can show up in your sphere of influence.
- Listen actively. Reach out to someone doing the work and ask, “How can I support you right now?”
- Acknowledge the climate, but don’t disappear into it. Courage looks different for each of us—but staying present matters.
- Do one tangible thing this month:
✅ Recommend someone for the HEAL Fellowship—a national traveling fellowship for orthopaedic surgeons to grow as health equity leaders.
✅ Launch a departmental Equity Leadership Index (ELI) assessment to get a pulse on strengths and gaps in culture and strategy.
✅ Become a more active ODLC member—log in to the ODLC Nation, attend a coaching call, or sign up for the Transformative Health Equity Certificate.
For Those Still in the Arena
If you’re someone still showing up—posting, teaching, mentoring, creating, pushing, leading —we see you. And you are not alone. But even champions need support:
- Avoid assumptions. Just because someone is silent doesn’t mean they’re disengaged. Invite them back in.
- Build diverse coalitions. Seek allies across roles, departments, and institutions. Fresh partnerships bring new energy.
- Name the fatigue. Rest and resilience can co-exist. Give yourself permission to step back and replenish when needed.
Finding Common Ground in Uncommon Times
So ask yourself:
Where is your voice today?
And how might it be a source of strength for someone else?
Because allyship isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being present.
Even when it’s quiet. Even when it’s hard. Especially when it counts.
Let’s not wait for another crisis to rejoin the work. The invitation to lead, support, and grow is always open.
Keep Pushing,
Dr. Erica
