Hello Dandykor Friends! It was brought to my attention last night that we’ve used a word in the latest flier that is divisive and triggering. I’m glad, although it’s hard, for those of us with the insight to call out discrepancies when they happen in dandykor’s intention to be inclusive and safe. It’s not the first time, and probably wont be the last time that I, Avery, and we, as a group, will create such situations. On the flier we used the phrase “spastic, awkward, and lovable dance party.” My ableist privilege created a blindspot, as privilege often does. Spastic is a word thrown at differently abled folks as a derogatory term and I failed to make that connection as the fliers were in process. This became an interesting conversation last night, at a dandykor meeting, and I’m writing to acknowledge my personal piece in this situation. I feel thankful to live in a time and community where we can look critically at our own and each others’ actions and creations, where we we can explore the layers beyond right/wrong, and have the opportunities to learn. I am always sorry the learning opportunities come at a cost to folks who are often already marginalized. On behalf of dandykor I apologize for any hurt that using this word has caused. I know folks have many different thoughts, feel free to continue the conversation here/ on FB. Thanks, Avery