In what ways can well-intentioned charity bash poor people?
What does Jean Swanson mean by "poor-bashing"? Can you explain, or provide examples, of how charity sometimes contributes to poor-bashing? How can people concerned with social inequality and social hardship work for change while avoiding poor-bashing?
Re: "poor-bashing"
I understand the concept of "poor-bashing", but sometimes it is unavoidable. Yes, kids can be cruel if they see someone else wearing their old donated clothing, but it's not like only one of that item was manufactured, so they can't be sure it is their old clothing. However, even if it is, it's an unavoidable need for the less fortunate to have to buy used clothing. We need to worry about teaching our kids more tolerance and acceptance of their peers, and explain that not everyone has the luxury of money like they do. Relying on donations isn't avoidable for some, but the ridicule is absolutely unecessary. We need to educate our children to treat others how they want to be treated.
Meta-Reflection on Forum Posting 1
"Poor-bashing" is such a sensitive subject to discuss because, often, less fortunate people do not wish to be centered out and treated like they need the charity of others to survive, even though this may be true.
Unfortunately, identifying some people as "poor" may very well be essential to their survival or well-being. By labelling these people, we, as a community, are able to provide these individuals with the proper staples that they need to live. However, by labelling them as "poor", it invites bullying, humiliation, and discrimination from others. These consequences are unfortunate, but sadly society often feels the need to discriminate against people who don't have the same luxuries as most of us.
In order for charities to be able to carry out their job and help those in need, the individuals needing help must feel comfortable in seeking and receiving the help. If people are so judgemental and discriminatory, people will no longer feel comfortable in accepting donations and help.
I feel like people need to be taught more tolerance, both at home by their parents, and in schools by their teachers. We must instill these qualities on our children when they are young, so that they grow up respecting everyone, and not discriminating against people less fortunate than themselves.
This is important to me personally because I always try and help the less fortunate when I have the chance. When grocery shopping, if there is someone outside asking for monetary donations, I will do some shopping for them while in the store, and bring them out a bag or two of groceries. I am not "bashing" them by doing this; I'm not judging their situation; I am simply trying to offer help. If I have the means to buy someone some food that will last a few days and get they by, then I see no reason not to. It's important not to make these people feel even worse about their situation. Yes, sometimes it may be a situation brought upon by their own poor decisions in life, but more often than not it's simply a matter of life's consequences. Jobs may have been lost, spouses who were household providers may have passed away, or perhaps sickness has caused all of their money to be spend for medical reasons. We don't know anyone's personal sitaution, so it's important that we learn not to pass judgement on things we don't know about. These less fortunate people have enough to worry about, without being discriminated against as well. We must treat others with respect, no matter what.
No comments:
Post a Comment