Absolutely. Though I personally feel that if we’re choosing to perpetuate the stereotype by adopting it, we need to take the time to educate ourselves on what power that stereotype has, not to mention unpacking why we’re attracted to it: are we healing, or reopening a wound?
Opting in to a stereotype means we can opt out, and that also means we may not be fully burdened by the harm that stereotype can do. Depending on the stereotype, we can inadvertently distress or reproduce harmful scenarios for people who do not have the option to opt out.
I’m not responsible for where other people’s toes are on a dance floor. I am responsible for whether I’m wearing sneakers or boots, and adjusting my step if I see toes where I’m about to dance.
Absolutely. Though I personally feel that if we’re choosing to perpetuate the stereotype by adopting it, we need to take the time to educate ourselves on what power that stereotype has, not to mention unpacking why we’re attracted to it: are we healing, or reopening a wound?
Opting in to a stereotype means we can opt out, and that also means we may not be fully burdened by the harm that stereotype can do. Depending on the stereotype, we can inadvertently distress or reproduce harmful scenarios for people who do not have the option to opt out.
I’m not responsible for where other people’s toes are on a dance floor. I am responsible for whether I’m wearing sneakers or boots, and adjusting my step if I see toes where I’m about to dance.
(Edited to fix punctuation)