Centering Survivors’ Voices to Strengthen Prevention: What Survivors Want from Male Allyship
What does meaningful allyship actually look like for survivors of gender-based violence? This research centers the voices of those most impacted—offering critical insight into what support looks like in practice, and where current approaches fall short.
Despite decades of work to engage men and boys, survivor perspectives have often been missing from how allyship is defined and practiced. This gap creates a disconnect between intention and impact.
In partnership with the Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic and Dr. Ian Degeer, this study brings forward the voices of women and gender-diverse survivors to better understand what allyship should look like—highlighting the importance of listening, accountability, and action grounded in real experiences.
About This Report
This research centers the voices of survivors.
In partnership with the Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic and Dr. Ian Degeer, White Ribbon held nine trauma-informed discussion groups with women and gender-diverse survivors of intimate partner violence.
To protect participants, conversations were not recorded. Insights were documented and analyzed to identify shared themes and real-world experiences.
This work is also informed by a focused review of existing research to identify key gaps in how male allyship is understood and practiced.
Grounded in Real Experience
9 survivor-led discussion groups
36 women and gender-diverse survivors
Trauma-informed, confidential approach
Thematic analysis grounded in lived experience
Real change takes all of us. Whether you’re an individual, an educator, or part of an organization, there are many ways to get involved and join the movement.
Ways that you can
take action
This research report is part of White Ribbon’s ongoing commitment to preventing all forms of gender-based violence and discrimination by engaging men and boys to take an active role in promoting respect, equality, and safe communities.
By shining a light on these challenges, we equip educators, parents, and communities with the tools to counter harmful messages and create spaces where boys can grow up with respect, empathy, and equality.
Ending gender-based violence begins with how we support and guide our boys—and your support makes that possible.