When someone supports a minority community, not out of a desire for equality or understanding, but because the stereotypes and “quirkiness” of the community are entertaining to them. Circus-Monkey Allies may uplift and express support for said minorities, but only the parts that they find amusing or can understand, like how one would treat an exotic animal in a zoo.
“I love gay guys and go to pride each year, but I’d never want my friend to be a lesbian. What if she hits on me?”
“That kinda feels like circus-monkey allyship, Emily”
this phrase is used when friends or family are discussing other peoples drama and/or trying to get involved in said drama.
Mike: i can't believe that joe's wife is trying to break up their sons relationship with his girlfriend.
John: well, i hope they can work it out instead
Mike: i think we should call Mike and try to talk him out of this very bad decision, maybe we could help fix this situation
John: hey look dude, its not my monkey, not my circus. I'm not getting involved in that shitshow domestic problem
Use the phrase not my monkey, not my circus when someone asks you for example, your opinion about Nostradamus or other meaningless, to you, nonsense. The phrase was first used by this guy Gavi who once worked with me.
"All this fuss going on at the moment about the lack of government funding for pre-school childcare so mothers can work? Sorry,not my circus not my monkeys". (From an old Polish proverb).