I have a facial deformity. Unfortunately, I’ve struggled my whole adult life with living wage employment. I've had hiring managers look at me in pure disgust before I even said a word. The job was purely data entry and I would not be interacting with customers. I knew I was not getting that position before I even opened my mouth.
Then it's the coworkers. I've overheard so much shit from coworkers because they think I can't hear them. I've had coworkers say they were “uncomfortable” working with me because of my face. My current coworkers constantly wish that when I get fired, someone prettier will take my place.
Yeah, I've tried the route of standing up for myself in the past. That was a degree and all my aspirations down the drain. I wouldn’t discourage others, but I don’t trust the system enough anymore. I live in a society that refuses to even recognize what is happening to me as an issue. A society that is convinced I’m making it all up because I want some big pay out.
All I really want is the same opportunities as anyone else. If “working” matters so much, why does my deformity matter more than the task at hand? In no way does it interfere with the work. Yet this is what I have faced my whole life.
It would also be great if we could move past telling people to “change their mentality.” Can I pay rent with my new mentality? Will that hiring manager change their mind if I can manage Olympic levels of charm? What if I can’t vastly outcompete my peers? Society loves to showcase those who overcome it all. Yet what happens to those who can’t overcome discrimination?
I’m just tired.