Slow down

Slow down.

I posted this text on my stories and it generated lots of discussions in my messages, so I’m posting here too.

I want to talk about slowness as an access provision.

I hate being rushed. At the supermarket when I’m packing my own bags. In a queue. Getting on and off a plane. Hate it.

Many disabled people don’t or can’t move or speak fast – because of our bodies, minds and voices; and also external barriers.

So when people rush us, perhaps because they don’t consider or even see disability – they’re just focused on productivity and efficiency – it can be overwhelming. It can also be humiliating.

Recently I was urged to hurry up, and I had to gather my things. My fingernails have broken because of chemo, and it’s hard to do things with my finger tips. I was so flustered trying to gather my things, and move on quickly.

Slow is not silly. Slow is not an inconvenience. We are not being difficult or incompetent.

Please, consider slowness in your access provisions. Don’t pressure us to move or speak or think at your speeds. Please be patient.

Meeting us at our own speed shows respect.

Disabled and chronically ill people: how does being rushed impact you? Why do you need the world you interact with to slow down?

Image: a selfie of Carly, a woman with a red face, wearing a scarf twisted over her head, and a white floral dress. She’s smiling. “Slow down” is in curved and straight black text next to her.

Has this post helped you or made you think? You can buy me a drink to show your appreciation – thank you!

The post Slow down first appeared on Carly Findlay.