The Tip
What's important is the story. And so I would encourage that part of allyship be don't always judge a person on what they are presenting, but listen to their story. Because the story is where it's rich and the story is where you're going to connect with that person. The person that might appear so different from you, might actually be your greatest ally. So I think that for me, was the biggest lesson in creating Coco [drag persona].
Coco, episode three
Breaking Down Coco's Tip
Listen to the Story for True Connection
Recognizing the significance of an individual's story to avoid snap judgments.
1. Prioritize the Story: Coco emphasizes the importance of looking beyond appearances and listening to the narratives people carry. This prioritization of the story is the foundation of genuine connection.
2. Suspend Judgment: Allyship requires a suspension of judgment based on surface-level characteristics. Instead, engage with the person's narrative to understand their experiences and perspectives.
3. Discover Common Ground: The core idea is that, despite external differences, shared humanity often emerges through storytelling. By embracing each other's stories, individuals may discover unexpected similarities and connections.
4. Unlikely Allies: Coco suggests that someone who may seem drastically different could become a powerful ally once you understand their story. This challenges preconceptions and encourages an open mind.
Listen to the full episode
💻 Episode page for transcript and resources.