Khairani Barokka (Okka) is a writer, poet and artist. In the article, Okka shares about her chronic pain, her hidden disability, ‘Pain hides in plain sight‘ – this line struck me. Okka’s in pain but because it isn’t seen, Okka’s pain is left unrecognised. Okka’s performance communicates her experience, the pain that no one understands, that has been neglected – that there is ‘an empathy gap’.
Reading this article made me reflect on my own knowledge and understanding of the emotional impact of invisible/ hidden disabilities. Okka was challenged with ignorance and insensitivity, and as a woman of colour, her voice remained unheard of. Okka’s reflection on sensitivity towards intersectional understandings in art performance is something I believe is important to consider/ agree with – choosing locations, considering additional catering/ services being provided, “understanding the lack of treatment and recognition of pain severity” and acknowledgement of mental health issues (page 391).
In my previous reflection, I talked about the stigmatization of disability and mental health conditions in our culture/ society. This enforces people to suffer in silence and not seek the needed support.
In my limited teaching context, I have been practising checking up on students and signposting [and encouraging] them to use UAL student services. Through hearing them, I want to understand/ be aware of any additional support the students might need as I have been in that position as a student. Through reading this article, I am conscious of the need for building a safer and braver space.
How can one share about themselves/ their experiences without the fear of being judged/ oppressed in a space?
How are invisible impairments recognised and considered?
How are you ensuring that invisible health conditions are not being trivialised?
FURTHER RESOURCES:
Key terms:
Spoon Theory: A metaphor for describing the amount of energy (mental and physical) of a person for daily activities.
Spoonies: People living with chronic pain