What would you change about modern society?

🌻 Labels That Harm vs. Labels That Heal

A Response to “What Would You Change About Modern Society?”

In today’s world, we talk a lot about inclusion, identity, and personal truth. We wear badges of who we are with pride—whether that’s sharing our pronouns, embracing our heritage, or owning a diagnosis that gives our experiences a name. But somewhere in this well-meaning quest for progress, we’ve also learned how to weaponize labels—to silence, to judge, and to protect certain narratives while dismissing others.

And that’s where I’d like to see modern society evolve.

The Power of a Label

Labels can help us understand ourselves and others.

A diagnosis like ADHD or Autism can unlock insight into how someone’s brain processes the world.

A word like arthritis can explain why someone needs to sit or stretch more frequently.

Identifying as transgender or neurodivergent or visually impaired allows space for empathy, accommodation, and respect.

We all have something—some visible, some invisible.

And when labels are used to build understanding, they heal.

But when labels are assigned to undermine or diminish, they harm.

When Labels Become Weapons

I’ve lived through it—recently.

In a work environment that prides itself on professionalism and inclusion, I found myself labeled a “gossip” for expressing concern, seeking clarity, and asking questions.

While others were free to share their identity, diagnoses, or limitations—whether proudly or quietly—my calm expression of discomfort or boundary-setting was viewed as inappropriate.

I was labeled “too emotional” for speaking my truth.

In a past position, I’ve been called:

White Girl Weak White Girl Church Girl Raised with White Blacks

—all because I responded to poor treatment with kindness, clarity, and calm.

I’ve worked with coworkers who show up late, avoid tasks, or stir division—but when I asked questions or stood firm, it was my character that was questioned. Not theirs.

Who Gets to Be Understood?

In today’s workplaces and communities, some labels are celebrated, while others are shamed.

We’re encouraged to show up with rainbow colors for Pride—and I support that fully—but there was no similar encouragement to recognize Juneteenth in my workplace.

We’re told to respect gender identity—and we should.

But neurodivergence, chronic illness, or even just someone’s communication style? That’s often judged or ignored.

It’s time we stop cherry-picking which truths are valid and start practicing the full inclusion we claim to believe in.

What I Would Change About Modern Society

I’d like to see a world where:

All stories are respected, not just the ones that are trending. Labels are used to open doors, not close conversations. We stop equating curiosity with conflict, and instead see questions as bridges to understanding. And most importantly, where we don’t allow a few harmful voices to outweigh the kindness of many.

I’ve been hurt by a small few—but I’ve also been loved, seen, and supported by so many more.

Final Reflection

Let’s use our labels to empower, not isolate.

Let’s name what’s hard, celebrate what’s true, and remember that dignity belongs to all of us—no matter what category we fall into.

Lady Flava aka Susan K

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