What would you do if you saw a sign that gave you that uncomfortable feeling, maybe not upset just uncomfortable?
Do we speak up or do we remain silent?
Recently I was at a store and the sign, in my opinion was offensive for several reasons. Fist the language, “we’d love to see you NAKED”. For any victim of sexual violence, both women and men, this could be triggering. Next, the language also invites those who shop to think they have the right to be suggestive to the staff. Which happens.
Being the curious person, I wanted to know why that particular sign was posted on the front entrance. According to the owner looks like there were problems with beach goers shopping in their bathing suits. Looking for an opportunity to provide awareness, I calmly suggested that perhaps using a different wording would be less stressful because the current wording could possibly be triggering for victims of sexual violence. The owner’s response was disappointing ‘everyone thinks it is a joke and some even take pictures.’ Again looking for an opportunity to provide education added, that the sign could be triggering for victims, you never know what someone is experiencing and they won’t find it funny. Sexual violence is not funny.
I realized as a business person he has his own reasons for posting that sign. It is not what you say but how you say it, clearly he did not see there was any issue or problem.
Disappointed but no deterred thought this is a topic for conversation. Being curious about my own perspective questioned, ‘Am I being too sensitive because of my own experiences? Should I just mind my own business? Who cares? ‘ As I got into my vehicle, decided to take a picture and post it asking the question,’what do you think, have a conversation.’
If no one says anything then nothing changes. Having a conversation, being curious can create awareness, provide an opportunity to educate and build bridges of understanding.