Important Announcements

Nondiscrimination Policy Update

Boston Medical Center Health System complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, national origin (including limited English proficiency and primary language), religion, culture, physical or mental disabilities, socioeconomic status, sex, sexual orientation and gender identity and/or expression. BMCHS provides free aids and services to people with disabilities and free language services to people whose primary language is not English.

To read our full Nondiscrimination Statement, click here.

Performative Activism

Performative Activism

Noun

Defined as activism that is done to increase one’s social capital rather than because of one’s devotion to a cause. A person who is taking part in performative activism would rather let it be known that they are not racist (sexist, homophobic, etc.) rather than actually seeking to change the racist structures within our country. Can also be applied to allyship.

Examples: 

  • Many corporations fall into this category to gain positive publicity, for instance, putting rainbows in their logos and sponsoring LGBTQ Pride parades, while at the same time, donating significant amounts of money to legislators who are actively working to diminish the safety and human rights of LGBTQ people. 
  • Performative activism is saying one thing, and continuing to make the same harmful choices and actions. It is lacking the humility and self-reflection to assess how you are contributing to injustices, whether intentionally or not, and what changes are required by you. While posting on social media is important and sometimes an accessible first step in one’s journey, continued growth and action are inherent to being an ally. 
  • “If you are not implementing your newfound education on racism in real-life environments and not just on social media, then you are not an ally.” 


Real allyship and activism requires taking on some risk and being in solidarity with those who are facing injustice. 

See ally.

Source
  1. The Dangers of Performative Activism - VOX ATL
  2. Performative Activism is Basically Silence. Here’s Why. (swaay.com)

The Glossary for Culture Transformation is a living document to be revised on an annual basis.

Suggested Citation: Office of Equity, Vitality, and Inclusion, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, and Boston University Medical Group. Glossary for Culture Transformation. 2021.

For questions or suggestions, please email wordsmatter@bu.edu