A Safe Space Means Zero Tolerance for Hate

Suzan D. Walker LMT 104331
Oct 7
2 min read

Sticker reading "THIS IS A SAFE SPACE" with hands symbol, prohibits racism, bigotry, sexism, and discrimination. Positive, inclusive vibe. — My office is a safe space. I have no tolerence for hate.

Over the years, I’ve faced many challenges in this field. Due to my ancestry, some individuals presume I have similar perspectives or experiences as they do. I do not. My Christ-conscious upbringing and diverse life experiences and education have shaped me differently.

In the privacy of a massage session, some have shared hateful or discriminatory beliefs about the LGBTQ community (of which I am a part), certain religions, cultures or other demographics. Let me be clear: I shall never tolerate racist, bigoted, or sexist remarks. I will call you out on your behavior.

Racism, bigotry, sexism, ageism, body/fat discrimination, religious or sexual orientation discrimination, harassment, threats, violent or aggressive behavior, boundary violations, and other harmful behaviors will not be tolerated in this space.

I have also faced sexism, ageism, and body/fat discrimination within this profession. My expertise has also been dismissed simply because of my gender even when giving the same recommendations as male colleagues. I've also experienced a significant amount of sexual harassment from men.

A Note on Social Media and Current Events

Seeing how people behave online has prompted me to write this. Many feel emboldened behind a screen, expressing themselves in ways they would never do face-to-face. Social media exposes a side of people we might not otherwise see. Amid rising political and societal attacks, LGBTQ communities, Black, Asian, Hispanic and Indigenous communities, and immigrants have faced significant increases in hostility. Through these sources we are learning who our true allies are and who are not. It is both sobering and clarifying: the truth of people’s character often comes to light.

Now than ever this is a great need for safe spaces for everyone away from the hate and intolerance.

Low vibrational behavior has no place here. We rise above. We evolve. We level up.

Tolerance and Understanding

Behind fear is ignorance, a lack of understanding, and an unwillingness to see the world through another's eyes. Whether it's a different race, culture, religion, sexual orientation, or demographic. Even if you do not agree with someone’s lifestyle choice, culture, or belief system, you can at least tolerate them. Not everyone will believe in the same God, share the same philosophies, or have the same sexual preferences as you yet we can choose to honor one another and allow people to live their lives freely. As long as it does not violate human rights and sovereign liberties we can live together on the big old rock.

If you are willing to bring this kind of understanding, you are welcome in this space. If not, there are other massage therapists who will be happy to take your business. You are free to find them elsewhere.

This office is a safe space for healing, not a platform for hate. Low vibrational behavior has no place here. We rise above. We evolve. We level up. I will not lower my standards or my energy to accommodate hate or negative behavior.

With peace and hope,

Suzan (Susan) Walker LMT