Calling In vs Calling Out
Calling in and calling out are different approaches to responding to a racist incident.
Calling in and calling out can each include possible risks depending on the situation. Both approaches can be complex and should be addressed in a thoughtful way.
In choosing to respond to a racist incident, consider if calling in or calling out is appropriate to the situation that has occurred. It is important to consider the power of your influence when deciding to either call in or call out.
Calling In
Calling in is an invitation to learn. It involves explaining to someone how and why their words or behaviour are harmful. This can be done through a non-public conversation after an incident has occurred. The conversation can be an opportunity to learn and grow.
Calling in can be used:
- When the person responsible for the racist incident may be open to understanding and learning more about why their actions were harmful
- To help shift someone’s thinking, values, or approach towards more respectful, equitably and non-racist ways
- To focus on reflection and learning from an incident, rather than simply reacting or seeking to reprimand the person for what they did wrong
Calling in usually occurs in a non-public space or in private conversation. Examples of how to start a conversation might include the following:
- I’m curious why you said what you said? Can you explain what you meant?
- What were you ‘getting at’ when you said that?
- What impacts do you think your comment (or behaviour) had on the person?
- How do you think others might have felt when you said that (or did that)? How do you think they experienced it?
Calling Out
Calling out occurs when public attention is drawn to highlight a harmful incident or behaviour. This can be done by questioning, challenging, or identifying a harmful incident as it is occurring or shortly after.
Calling out can be used:
- To let someone know that their actions or words are unacceptable and will not be tolerated
- To address an incident involving a person who is not open to a ‘calling in’ approach
- To interrupt the racist behaviour and to prevent further harm and escalation from taking place
There are many ways you can engage in calling out. For example, you might say:
- What you’re doing is not okay — please stop.
- What you’re saying is not okay and I’m asking you to stop now.
- Your comment is racist and here’s why________.
- Your comment (or behaviour) isn’t appropriate — stop.
- As a school leader (or teacher, or friend, or colleague, etc.) I need to let you know that your comment (or behaviour) isn’t appropriate or okay.
