Navigating Classism in Modern Society: A Personal Account
Classism, the discrimination or prejudice against individuals based on their social class, is a prevalent issue in many societies, including Mexico, a country known for its pronounced class distinctions. In this article, I share my personal experiences with classism, highlighting the challenges faced by those who do not conform to traditional social expectations regarding clothing and presentation.
The Prevalence of Classism in Mexico
As someone who hails from Mexico, I have firsthand experience with classism. It is a deeply rooted aspect of society, especially in how people perceive outward appearances. Whether at a departmental store or even at the local McDonald's, social barriers can often come into play, making daily life a challenging obstacle.
Experiences with Classism
Instance 1: Sanborns Department Store
One incident stands out when I was a baby bat [heart emoji] at a departmental store called Sanborns. This store, popular in Mexico, is well-known for its wide variety of products. Despite fond memories of purchasing music from there as a child, Sanborns developed a reputation for overly scrutinizing customers, especially those who did not fit into their ideal image.
On a visit with my mother, I noticed that I was followed by employees while trying to purchase CDs. My attire, a combination of ratty old clothes and a vaguely rock/punk look, made it difficult for me to blend in. After collecting my CDs from a cashier, I left to use the bathroom. Upon returning, an employee chased me down demanding the CDs. My mother, bless her soul, was understandably upset. However, the harassment ceased once my carefree goth days came to an end.
Instance 2: The Unintended Recruit
Decades later, during a period of self-discovery and fitness challenges, I visited McDonald's for a post-workout reward. Embracing my unconventional style again, I felt slightly out of place. Upon requesting a small burger, the experience took a turn for the unexpected. Alongside my meal, I was handed an unfilled job application. The employer, influenced by my general attire and maybe a touch of prejudice, assumed I was there for a job and dropped the application in my basket. While I attribute this to over-sensitivity, the incident was, unfortunately, not a one-off occurrence.
Instance 3: Professional Struggles
As I continued my journey, I graduated from college and launched a career. Professional attire became my norm, yet classism continued to manifest in subtle ways. The experiences at Sanborns and McDonald's taught me that even in more formal settings, prejudice based on appearance can linger. While I may appear more conventional now, classism remains a challenge in navigating daily life.
Conclusion
Classism is a pervasive issue that affects individuals from all walks of life, often in unexpected ways. My experiences highlight the importance of raising awareness and advocating for a more inclusive society. By acknowledging and addressing classism in our everyday interactions, we can create a more equitable and respectful world for everyone.