Happy Face Equality Week, everyone. Face Equality Week is an annual event that raises awareness about the prejudice experienced by people with visible differences.
Check out the videos from our campaigners and ambassadors speaking out about the things they wish people would stop doing and how to be a better ally changingfaces.org.uk/get-in...
What do you wish people knew about living with a visible difference? Please share your thoughts below x
I would like hairdressers and beauticians to understand how devastating it can feel when treatments wrong .
True. I went to a hair dresser once and she seemed to intentionally give me the wrong hairstyle. I took in a photo of what I wanted and she used styling tools and products to flatten my hair to my head. Looked nothing like what I wanted. Then all of her coworkers stared at me as I checked out. It was humiliating. It was my first and last visit to a salon. I've cut my own hair ever since. Luckily I do a pretty good job! But I would love to go to a salon and have my difference not be an issue. I've even thought of requesting a private appointment. Sorry you face the same challenge.
I wish we could live in a world where visible differences were seen as "normal" because at the end of the day... we are "normal" whatever "normal" is and we're no different to anyone else! Everyone is different whether they have long hair or short, green eyes or blue. So why should someone with a unique difference be made to feel they're not "normal"?
I also wish that people saw our differences as a strength rather than a weakness. They should be celebrated not looked down upon.
And, if I'm happy with the way I look and proud to be who I am... I shouldn't have to change for anyone!!
Happy Face Equality Week everyone! I want you all to know how beautiful and truly special you are!!!😍
That we can see, hear, and feel their stares, comments and aggressions. And that those reactions affect us, our self esteem and how we interact with the world. I think some people believe we are devoid of the ability to recognize their cruelty, which is one of the worst types of objectification someone can experience.
I 100% agree!
I used to have a friend who was 6'4". Everywhere he went, people would make comments about his height, often rudely, and often to each other, completely disregarding he was even there. One day he told me he wished people understood he was tall, not deaf. I really identified with that. It was kind of the first time someone I knew acknowledged the way people can dehumanize those who look different from them. I used to think it was all in my head or that I was doing something wrong for people to react the way they do. But nope. It's real and it's a challenge many of us face, especially those of us who have a difference that isn't a common variant like height or weight. Being understanding of others and patient with what they don't know is a lot to carry some days, and it can get exhausting. But we just have to get back up everyday with a hopeful attitude and a positive outlook, so that we don't live our lives bitter and angry. That's one thing I've never wanted, ever since I was young I always told myself, I will not be that person. It's really important to not allow people's reactions to make us someone we are not. I like how you and I seem to share that sentiment AlwaysSmiling. It's been great getting to know you here! 🤗
Yeah I get what you mean. It's almost as if they think we can't hear them saying mean things or see their stares! People need to know how much things like this affect us.
It may take some time before everyone is educated enough to understand this but at least for now we all understand each other here in the visible difference community!
Together we can educate the world and make it a fairer place for people with a visible difference to live the lives they want... free from judgement and discrimination!
Exactly!
Thank you for your responses so far. It's clear that education and awareness is so important and very much needed so let's keep talking and educating our families, friends, communities, establishments and everywhere possible!
I am an actor whose face was damaged by a doctor friend
Lip vitiligo, anxiety/depression/suicial thoughts from the many stares I get, people who look away from my face & bite theirs in concern
Rosacea
Rosacea 
