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The EThIC Model of Virtue-Based Allyship Development: A New Approach to Equity and Inclusion in Organizations

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  • Meg A. Warren

    (Western Washington University)

  • Michael T. Warren

    (University of British Columbia)

Abstract

As organizations take on grand challenges in gender equality, anti-racism, LGBTQ+ protections and workplace inclusion, many well-intentioned individuals from dominant groups (e.g., cisgender men, Caucasian, heterosexual) are stepping forward as allies toward underrepresented or marginalized group members (e.g., cisgender women, People of Color, LGBTQ+ identified employees). Past research and guidance assume an inevitable need for external motivation, reflected in the ‘business case’ for diversity and in top-down policies to drive equity and inclusion efforts. This qualitative study explored internal motivations in the form of morally motivated virtues of 25 peer-nominated exemplary allies serving in leadership positions. In-depth life/career story interviews were used to identify the virtues that supported their allyship journeys. Findings demonstrated that they tapped into several virtues that served distinct functions in a 4-stage allyship development process: Stage 1—Energizing psychological investment (compassion, fairness); Stage 2—Thinking through allyship-relevant complexities (intellectual humility, perspective-taking, wisdom); Stage 3—Initiating action (prudence, moral courage, honesty); Stage 4—Committing to allyship (perseverance, patience). We call this the ‘EThIC model of virtue-based allyship development.’ This study has implications for theory and research on a virtue-based approach to diversity, equity and inclusion.

Suggested Citation

  • Meg A. Warren & Michael T. Warren, 2023. "The EThIC Model of Virtue-Based Allyship Development: A New Approach to Equity and Inclusion in Organizations," Journal of Business Ethics, Springer, vol. 182(3), pages 783-803, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:jbuset:v:182:y:2023:i:3:d:10.1007_s10551-021-05002-z
    DOI: 10.1007/s10551-021-05002-z
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Gregor Wolbring & Aspen Lillywhite, 2023. "Coverage of Allies, Allyship and Disabled People: A Scoping Review," Societies, MDPI, vol. 13(11), pages 1-38, November.

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