Why Allyship Matters: Jason’s Journey with Women United

When it comes to building a more equitable future, everyone has a role to play — including men. For Jason Schauenberg, allyship isn’t about being in the spotlight. It’s about quietly showing up, staying engaged, and using his voice and actions to help create a better world for the women in his life and beyond. 

As a longtime supporter of United Way’s Women United, Jason brings thoughtfulness, humility, and purpose to his advocacy. As a father of two daughters, he is driven by a deep desire to make the world more fair, safe, and full of opportunity for future generations. Here, Jason shares his perspective on allyship and the importance of supporting women and girls in our community.

What first inspired you to support Women United, and what does being an ally to this movement mean to you?

I have two daughters who are growing up in today’s society, and I want to play some small part in making their experiences in the workplace better than the previous generation. And when I learned about the disproportionate levels of poverty and other hurdles women face, reflected on all the women and girls in my life whom I love and respect, it was an easy decision to support Women United.

What challenges facing women and girls resonate most deeply with you, and why do you feel called to act?

The one that sticks out most for me is the poverty experienced by single mothers and their families. I can only imagine the stress involved and how much weight rests on the shoulders of a single mom trying her best to provide for her family. She must balance teaching and nurturing her children with working a job (or sometimes multiple jobs) to earn enough to pay for life’s essentials. These are two full time responsibilities she is tackling alone, which leads me to wonder: how is she supposed to rest – both physically and mentally? It seems impossible for one person to sustain day after day for years and years. So if there are initiatives out there like Women United that can lighten the burden, I am glad to play a part in that.

Other than supporting Women United, how else do you show up as a “co-conspirator” for gender equity at home, in your workplace, or in the community?

Like many businesses in blue collar Alberta, there is relatively small representation of women in a lot of the positions, so our workplace formed a “Women’s Interest Network” several years ago. I joined it as an ally shortly after it was formed because I felt it was important to support efforts that seek to change that inequity in the workplace. 

Is there a woman, past or present, who has shaped your views or inspired your journey as an advocate? Tell us about her.  

Without any hesitation: my wife Carlie and my two daughters. Choosing to advocate for the women in our lives (and more broadly in our society) today will help create better futures for our daughters, granddaughters, and future generations.

If you could ensure one opportunity or resource for every woman or girl, what would it be and why?

For me the goal is true gender equality in every opportunity society has to offer. My motivation is personal: I would like to see my two daughters have all the same opportunities as men in all their future pursuits. 

What advice would you give to other men interested in becoming a better ally in the movement for gender equity?

You don’t have to be the loudest voice in the room that people often envision when they think about being an ally or advocate for a certain cause. I am an introvert by nature, so joining a group that has some connection to gender equality and participating in ways that interest you can be a great start. Simply showing up as an ally to women’s groups can have a snowball effect, demonstrating to other men that the cause is worthy of our attention and support – whether it’s active or passive.