Retailers J.C. Penney and Nordstrom are to be congratulated for embracing inclusion by displaying an aspect of diversity that is not often highlighted…people with visible disabilities. As many parts of the world age, the number of people with disabilities will naturally increase. In addition there is increased recognition of military veterans who return home with physical and mental challenges. Last week I wrote about the new laws which strengthen regulations to protect and employ people with disabilities.
Traditionally models and mannequins are represented by thin, “beautiful” people who look “perfect” based on the stereotypes that we have about what beauty looks like. Images are very powerful in shaping our worldviews and our self-images. Much has been written about how the super thin image for female models has led to low self-esteem, dangerous eating habits and in extreme cases body altering procedures and even suicide for young girls who feel inadequate when they do not fit the “look”.
J.C. Penney recently unveiled five new window mannequins at its Manhattan store to represent their diverse range of customers. As part of the company’s ‘When It Fits You Feel It’ campaign, the mannequins are based around Dawna Callahan, who uses a wheelchair; Ricardo Gil, who is a little person; Desiree Hunter, a 6-foot-1½-inch basketball player; plus sized Beth Ridgeway, and Neil Duncan, a former U.S. Army member who lost parts of his legs in Afghanistan.
Nordstrom recently released its anniversary catalogue which features Jillian Mercado, a 26-year-old who has spastic muscular dystrophy. The Latino fashion blogger and aspiring model has been confined to a wheelchair since she was 12 years old.
Social media is also instrumental in changing the socially acceptable norms about physical beauty. A make-up artist from Worcester England, who has worn two colostomy bags since 2010 posted a selfie on Instagram earlier this year where the bag prominently showing.
Opening our hearts and minds to embrace diversity in all of its forms is what this work is all about. Kudos to J.C. Penney and Nordstrom!
