Young, Gifted & Disabled...
This thread has been closed and archived.
This discussion is public.
Original Post
I'm 25, newly married (that's me in my avatar), hold down a job and do my etsy shop - I create my own patterns for my designs, hand knit everything in store and have created my own blog www.debs102.blogspot.com and have gained almost 150 followers in the last 3 months.
Today when I went to town in my lunch hour I got mobbed by some kids who kicked my walking stick, called me a cripple and spat on me. I got really upset heading back to the office - this isn't the first time it's happened or anything, but I hate being spat at...
I'm talented, driven, I've worked really hard to get to where I am now, I have 2/3 fits a week, am deaf and bi-polar, but still manage my life well - so why the heck can't I get to the post office with my orders without getting mobbed or gawked at?!
Sigh... Oh well, at least on Etsy I feel like an equal - it does seem to level the playing field a bit. I don't feel inferior when I chat to you on here.
Thank you Etsy for being accessible and keeping me sane...well sort of... ;)
Debs
Posted at 4:44pm Aug 19, 2010 EDT
Responses
what a miserable self image they must have of themselves to do something like this in order to feel important and powerful.
They would benefit greatly to spend some time with someone like you that has true importance and power.
Posted at 5:09pm Aug 19, 2010 EDT
i would report it to the local media--you don't need to have a picture of yourself or give your name and can say you won't talk unless they promise no source info (i write for a paper and yes, we do honor that) but you can tell them what happened--or you can write a letter to the editor and ask them to leave your name off but you would like the letter published--they will want to confirm you are real so will ask some questions that won't be published--and then let the community know what is going on there--NO ONE should be treated so disrespectfully--NO ONE! i'm sorry, but that is beyond atrocious behavior. it is harassment and assault....and a crime.
Posted at 5:16pm Aug 19, 2010 EDT
I'd carry a camera and a cell phone. The next time someone attacks you, get their picture and call 911. After talking to police, I'd contact the local television station and see if they will report. I'd also contact disability advocates to see how they can help. Raise a big ol stink, contact a lawyer. When those jerks start being held accountable for being jerks, then maybe they will stop.
Posted at 5:20pm Aug 19, 2010 EDT
I know - I reported it the first couple of times it happened but nothing really happened so I've just left it since. It's not that I condone it or anything, just that nothing seems to happen when I do try and do something about it.
I just try and get on with life and not let it get me down
Debs
Posted at 5:22pm Aug 19, 2010 EDT
I know there are a great many disabled shop owners here. I am sure if look under the Creatability Team you will find lots of fun and support.
Posted at 5:23pm Aug 19, 2010 EDT
welcome to etsy.
etsy can be a very supportive community. if you're interested, here is a wonderful street team on etsy to join, team.etsy.com/viewteam.php?id=453
it's the Createability Team who would love to have you.
Posted at 5:24pm Aug 19, 2010 EDT
I do hope you continue to report it to the local authorities every time it happens, though. Maybe if there are enough complaints they will patrol the area better.
Posted at 5:24pm Aug 19, 2010 EDT
Sending you a great big hug through my tears. Both you and your shop are amazing!
Posted at 5:25pm Aug 19, 2010 EDT
That is very good info - thanks @satinandbirch and @archaic design :)
Debs
Posted at 5:25pm Aug 19, 2010 EDT
I'm sorry that you've even had to report incidents like this! I do agree that you should keep reporting it.
Where on Earth do you live where there are so many rude or possibly feral youths?
I'm glad you're home and okay now. Wishing you the best of luck on Etsy! :)
Posted at 5:27pm Aug 19, 2010 EDT