It’s time to cancel ‘cancel culture’ in favor of compassionate advocacy
This culture can be particularly harmful to people with invisible illnesses
In the age of “cancel culture,” where snap judgments and public shaming abound, the journey from stigma to compassion is often fraught with challenges.
I live with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and bipolar II disorder, am a wife to a person with hemophilia, and formerly co-owned a business run by people with disabilities. As a result, I’ve encountered firsthand the impact of cancel culture on both personal and professional levels.
For example, an anonymous account once shared my identity and photo without permission, alongside sentiments that appeared to criticize my business. My business had been experiencing some issues, which we were already addressing privately with the affected clients. Despite this, the account shared statements that felt personal to me.
Because the account was anonymous, we never had the opportunity to discuss the issue, so I couldn’t explain my side. If the person behind the account had approached me directly and initiated a civil conversation, I would have been open to talking.
Cancel culture ‘cancels out’ any attempt at productive communication
This experience made me reflect on how cancel culture on the internet allows people to exploit anonymity to attack others or tarnish their reputations without first seeking to communicate and understand the other side.
Cancel culture tends to lump individuals or entities together based on shallow observations and sweeping generalizations, overlooking the unique experiences and challenges they face. This blanket approach can be particularly detrimental to those with invisible illnesses like hemophilia, where the severity of the condition may not be immediately apparent.
Yet, in the face of adversity, there is an opportunity for growth and change. By being open to exchanging stories and experiences, we can foster a deeper awareness and understanding of people with invisible disabilities and the unique physical and mental struggles they face. Through compassionate advocacy, we can replace judgment with empathy and support and learn to treat others not just fairly but equitably.
The importance of open dialogue
As a “HemoWife,” I’ve come to understand the significance of championing greater awareness and understanding of hemophilia and other chronic illnesses. Through my interactions with supportive friends and family, I’ve learned that fostering a supportive environment is essential for people to feel acknowledged, heard, and appreciated.
Similarly, as a disabled business owner, I’ve encountered challenges in communicating my perspective, often facing confusion or indifference. In navigating these obstacles, compassionate advocacy becomes essential. It allows us to create spaces of inclusion and empowerment, ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard and valued.
By transforming cancel culture into compassionate advocacy, we have the power to effect positive change within our communities. By challenging stereotypes, fostering empathy, and promoting understanding, we can create a more inclusive and supportive society for all.
Note: Hemophilia News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Hemophilia News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to hemophilia.
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