Thank you for opening up this conversation! It immediately made me think of the travel industry—specifically the unspoken "decorum codes" expected in First Class. It begs the question: who actually sets these standards, and what responsibility do private corporations have in shaping them?
As a mom to a child with an invisible disability, walking through that First Class cabin to get to our economy seats is often our biggest hurdle. When we struggle during preboarding, we end up boarding last and the judgment from First Class passengers who just assume he's a "bratty kid" is palpable. It’s a stressful moment for us, but I try to view it as an involuntary learning opportunity for everyone else in that cabin. True decorum should include a little grace for the invisible challenges people are carrying.
I've started to think a lot more about certain phrases or adages that we're so used to hearing that are often applied in really ableist ways, or in ways that leave people with disabilities completely out of the conversation. Decorum is such a great example of that, and another one I hadn't thought of before!
Right?! So much of "standard" language is exclusionary and I find myself using it without thinking! It's really been a journey to question more whatever attitudes and words are accepted that can cause harm to people.
I'm exhausted just reading this.
Hugs!
Thank you for opening up this conversation! It immediately made me think of the travel industry—specifically the unspoken "decorum codes" expected in First Class. It begs the question: who actually sets these standards, and what responsibility do private corporations have in shaping them?
As a mom to a child with an invisible disability, walking through that First Class cabin to get to our economy seats is often our biggest hurdle. When we struggle during preboarding, we end up boarding last and the judgment from First Class passengers who just assume he's a "bratty kid" is palpable. It’s a stressful moment for us, but I try to view it as an involuntary learning opportunity for everyone else in that cabin. True decorum should include a little grace for the invisible challenges people are carrying.
Such a good point! And I agree 100% that decorum should include grace for other people as we all struggle.
Such an important article. Thank you. So relevant. So often one is belittled and made fo feel ( or they try to .ake one feel unworthy and devalued.
Thanks for reading, Cynthia!
I've started to think a lot more about certain phrases or adages that we're so used to hearing that are often applied in really ableist ways, or in ways that leave people with disabilities completely out of the conversation. Decorum is such a great example of that, and another one I hadn't thought of before!
Right?! So much of "standard" language is exclusionary and I find myself using it without thinking! It's really been a journey to question more whatever attitudes and words are accepted that can cause harm to people.
Me too. I’m still a work in progress but I’m thankful for other writers here like you that help me along in the journey 😊