A confronting A3 visual resource that exposes how well-intentioned allyship can become extractive — and how Emotional Intelligence offers a pathway toward accountable, relational practice.
When Allyship Becomes Extractive names a hard but necessary truth: not all harm comes from hostility. Sometimes harm comes from help — especially when allyship centres the helper and sidelines Indigenous peoples, knowledge, and authority.
This A3 framework unpacks what extractive allyship looks like in practice, how it often hides behind the language of “collaboration” or “inclusion,” and why intention alone is not enough. Drawing on Emotional Intelligence (EQ-i) domains, the resource clearly maps common blind spots — saviourism, urgency, tokenism, and performative care — and offers grounded, relational shifts that support accountability and trust.
Rather than calling people out, this resource calls people higher. It invites deep self-reflection, slows the rush to be seen as “good,” and centres Indigenous relationships, reciprocity, and consent as the true measure of allyship.
What This Resource Supports
- Recognising extractive patterns in allyship and engagement
- Shifting from intention-based to impact-based practice
- Using Emotional Intelligence to interrupt harm
- Supporting courageous, accountable self-reflection
- Strengthening relational trust with Indigenous peoples
What’s Included
- 1 x A3 printable PDF
- Visual framework integrating allyship and Emotional Intelligence
- Reflection prompts and relational “heart checks”
Recommended For
- Leaders and senior decision-makers
- RAP and DEI committee members
- Educators and facilitators
- Cultural safety practitioners
- Allies committed to moving beyond performative action
Suggested Use
- As a facilitation anchor in leadership or allyship sessions
- For individual reflection and professional learning
- In RAP implementation and review conversations
- Alongside Emotional Intelligence or cultural capability training
Indigenous Cultural & Intellectual Property (ICIP) Notice
This resource is protected under Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property (ICIP).
Purchase provides a single-user licence for personal or internal organisational use only.
This resource may not be copied, adapted, shared, or distributed beyond the purchasing individual or organisation without written permission.
Respectful engagement with this resource requires acknowledging Indigenous authority, lived experience, and relational accountability. Allyship that extracts, consumes, or recentres non-Indigenous comfort undermines the very change it seeks to create.
