African American
In reply to the discussion: I would hate to be a ... [View all]neefer
(1 post)It's hard to put oneself into the plight of an AA person, and it seems when people do try to make an analogous point about their identity and how they've suffered, they are occasionally chastised for drawing attention away from discussions like BLM.
So I'm curious to hear how you'd react to my experiences of my body in public spaces, and if you think my suffering is anyway analogous, or if sharing this means I cannot empathize with AA experiences. So here goes....
I am fat, not pudgy, thick, curvy...fat. And female, and white, and not conventionally attractive. I require a cane or a scooter to get around. Dealing with coarse body hair is expensive, but if I assault polite society with my natural self, I am a target for abuse. Ugly hog, hairy cunt. I dare to walk around in a fat female body that makes people uncomfortable with their perception of idealized femininity.
I'm harassed by all races, almost always men. I get cold treatment in stores from white men, white saleswomen ignore me or tell me they're not sure there is anything for me even if I'm buying a scarf or a present for my niece, and when I'm harassed on the street it's unfortunately usually by men of color.
I passionately support the plight of AAs as viciously punished by institutional racism. I want to have a voice in this fight, because it is right. Maybe some day there will be a movement for someone like me, but I want to align myself with justice, and right now this is your moment. I understand lives are at stake, and the need is more urgent.
Am I an ally? Am I allowed to be honest about my experiences and still be an ally?