Ally is a Verb is a masterclass in how to be a next-level ally in Reconciliation. “Allies start with enough literacy to do no harm,” as LeMay explains, and then quickly evolve to actively challenging racism, and supporting Indigenous safety and belonging in Canada. LeMay adroitly brings the reader through her story so that they, by learning the history and its impacts, can arrive at the truth: allyship is a necessity and a moral imperative. It’s also a practice and a carefully developed skill, one where we act upon “the heart and morality” of the words we have taken in. Reading this book challenges and inspires us not only to believe but also to deeply understand how we can change systems through everyday acts of influence, advocacy, and supporting change. This book and its ambition to call us in, teach active allyship, and instill hope is brilliantly and boldly realized.

Victoria Kuketz, Director of Corporate Engagement at Catalyst Canada