The (Puzzling) Ribbon Culture
Until a rather large truck (a several-wheeler) squoze too close against my car a year ago, a magnet of the puzzle ribbon adorned its left rear-end. That part of the car was in need of some repairs after that accident and we never got around to putting on a new magnet. And too, there was a part of me that felt, did we need a magnet that says “Autism Awareness” when it often seems that people have only to see Charlie and they are “aware” that something’s different about him?
In a recent Spiked-Online review of a book entitled Ribbon Culture, reviewer Jennie Bristow notes that it “provides a cogent analysis of the ubiquitous ‘awareness-raising’ ribbon and its more recent offspring, the wristband.” Writes Bristow:
‘Since its emergence in 1991, the awareness ribbon has achieved the kind of cultural status usually reserved for religious symbols and big-brand icons’, notes [Sarah] Moore in her introductory chapter. Fewer than two decades on from the launch of the red AIDS-awareness ribbon, which Moore credits with starting this trend, one can buy ribbons in every colour, to ‘show awareness’ for a ‘staggering’ range of causes:
‘… the Oklahoma bombing, male violence, censorship, bullying, epilepsy, diabetes, brain cancer, myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), autism, racial abuse, childhood disability, and mouth cancer, to name just a few.’
Moore is not being simply, cynically, cold-hearted about the phenomenon of wearing ribbons and wristbands, and affixing magnets to one’s car to proclaims one’s loyalty, awareness, etc. for a condition, cause, etc.. In a number of examples (such as the pink ribbon for breast cancer and the notion of “thinking pink”), Moore points out that, too often, ribbon-wearing does not coincide with actual knowledge and understanding about a cause or condition. In some cases, she suggests, the ribbons become something of a fashion accessory. As Bristow writes, it is possible that “awareness” can cross over into “misinformation”? Is just being “aware” about [insert cause or condition] enough?
Where I live, it’s not uncommon to see puzzle ribbon and puzzle piece magnets, and tattoos, and wristbands, t-shirts, bumper stickers (not to mention pretzels for “edible awareness”). But what kind of “awareness” do all of these items end up promoting?
As Charlie has gotten older, his very presence in public seems to attract attention and, hence a very literal kind of “awareness,” as in “there’s a kid who is a little ‘different’ and he’s standing right next to me and why did he make that noise?”. It’s one thing for a toddler to make a bellowing sort of sound in a grocery store, another for a 5-foot tall boy. At such moments, I note to Charlie that “that’s kind of loud,” and these sorts of comments tend to diffuse any puzzled stares or startled looks.
But, generally, Charlie does not have to say or do anything to get a few looks. Something about how he holds his body, or his not saying much, or maybe just the way Jim and I stand near to him evokes attention. And this is the kind of “awareness”—that there is “someone different here, and that’s as it should be and just fine”—that I’m thinking of.
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POSTED IN: Friendship, Health, Ribbons
31 opinions for The (Puzzling) Ribbon Culture
Sarah
Apr 17, 2008 at 2:34 am
Great post, Kristina, and now I really have to check out that book. The review reminded me of Barbara Ehrenreich’s critique of the breast cancer “awareness industry.” I also have to appreciate Stephen Colbert’s “wrist awareness” parody. The term “awareness” is pretty nebulous, IMHO. It’s one thing to be “aware” of something, but what agenda, attitude, and actions does such an “awareness” imply? True awareness can’t be confined to a ribbon.
I guess we’re all guilty of this kind of “activism”, though. This post made me realize that while I often wear a T-shirt which says “Stop Genocide in Sudan”, I don’t exactly devote very much actual effort to the cause.
Melody
Apr 17, 2008 at 4:15 am
The whole “awareness culture” thing makes a lot of sense to me. Most people hear “(blank) awareness” and think, “Oh, that’s nice; I should show my support”. Me, I don’t have any ribbons or wristbands; I spread autism awareness every time I attend a lecture or ride the city bus! ;) (I intend also to buy that shirt that says “Totally Flaming Autistic” as soon as I can remember to ask my mom to input her credit information!)
jypsy
Apr 17, 2008 at 6:44 am
“As Charlie has gotten older, his very presence in public seems to attract attention and, hence a very literal kind of “awareness,” as in “there’s a kid who is a little ‘different’ and he’s standing right next to me and why did he make that noise?”.”
That kind of “in your face” awareness is the kind I like most and Alex does best. It’s the basis of his (almost weekly) “running FOR autism” road racing.
Countless people are now aware, some even very aware, of what autism is about (especially given those who are aware of my Dx have a very good idea of how broad the Spectrum really is). It has allowed for much education of others and correction of misinformation.
Joeymom
Apr 17, 2008 at 8:20 am
Interestingly, I have a number of bumper stickers, including a puzzle ribbon on my car. The result? I get lots of random people pulling me over, tapping at my windows, and stopping me in grocery stores to ask about autism, ask about services, ask me about their own family members and friends who may be autistic, and where to get them checked out. I get asked about vaccines, diets, vitamins, therapies. It has turned out to be a great way to get a conversation going.
jypsy
Apr 17, 2008 at 8:42 am
Every time I see a puzzle magnet on a car I want to steal it and throw it in the nearest trash can. But I don’t, I’m far too honest to steal.
I was behind a car with a bright, rainbowed “Celebrate Diversity” bumper sticker the other day - that made my day.
alyric
Apr 17, 2008 at 9:16 am
“Is just being “aware” about [insert cause or condition] enough?”
And that brings to mind Lizzie Miller’s fine piece in I forget exactly which newspaper:)
Angela
Apr 17, 2008 at 9:20 am
I am so glad someone brought up the ‘ribbon campaigns’… I do have a couple on my website, but have never been able to bring myself to put one on my car. You are right in saying that it is more important to educate people than it is to blindly wear these ribbons. Great post!
Kristina Chew, PhD
Apr 17, 2008 at 9:28 am
Charlie came home with a pink ribbon on his shirt on the other day and that prompted my thinking—-in another school, there was a “red ribbon” day that was to spread “AIDS awareness” among K-3rd grade kids. And, today is “character day” at Charlie’s school, which means everyone is supposed to wear red—-I know having these sorts of “awareness campaigns” is one way to get a discussion started. But I really liked Sarah Moore’s point about how the kind of awareness prompted by wristbands etc. often does not go beyond saying (for instance) “I know what that is” and not trying to find out more.
Bonnie
Apr 17, 2008 at 9:36 am
We too had Autism Awareness magnets on both cars and both magnets were stolen. I was a little baffled by the theft but not sad, and didn’t replace them either. For me, it felt like having them on the car was an invasion of privacy for Casey. I noted that when we did have them, people would look over purposefully into our car, looking for who had Autism perhaps? I don’t think they are bad, but for me, we get enough stares, like you mentioned and I really don’t want to draw even more attention.
I think awareness is good, but not at the expense of my child’s privacy.
abfh
Apr 17, 2008 at 10:37 am
Alyric — it was the Advocate-Messenger in Danville, Kentucky. Here’s the link, for those who may not have read the article:
http://www.amnews.com/public_html/?module=displaystory&story_id=39936&format=html
This is what Miller wrote about the puzzle ribbon:
“Autism awareness” is not a laudable goal. Awareness is cheap. Anybody can put a puzzle piece magnet on his car and call himself “aware.” Being aware and accepting of autistic people as people instead of puzzles takes more effort.
Chuck
Apr 17, 2008 at 10:55 am
We use the magnets as both conversation starters and for safety reasons. I am relatively sure that my child would probably get really mad if the car he was in was pulled over for whatever reason. He may become violent or self-abusive depending on the situation. If the ribbon was not there and a police officer saw this situation, what would his reaction be and would that reaction endanger my child?
We have not been pulled over for any reason since my son was born so I still don’t know what might happen.
ange
Apr 17, 2008 at 11:01 am
Overwhelmed by awareness and activism, I searched nearly every illness, disease, disorder, disability, quirk, membership my immediate family has (me, hubby, and two boys). And sure enough there was a ribbon and/or bracelet along with an official organization for most. Even an awareness month for many of them. Everything from psoriasis, roceasea, autism, OCD, union, birthmark, short stature, etc. I need an “over-aware” ribbon … I’ll put that one on my car(where I have none now.) I do have a silver ribbon pin for “disability” but I like the inclusiveness of it. I need to check out that book. :)
S.L.
Apr 17, 2008 at 11:12 am
Great point and post, Kristina. I see ribbons everywhere, but acceptance and tolerance are nowhere to be found. Another example of this, are the “Save Darfur” & “Free Tibet” bumper stickers etc. How many of those people are actually speaking to politicians, raising money, writing letters, etc. to actually make change for those people? It makes us feel good, to have that bumper sticker, pin, or magnet on us. It’s nearly become a status symbol: “I am aware, I’m helping xyz, I’m educated, etc.”
H6
Apr 17, 2008 at 12:20 pm
Seinfeld had a segment on what could happen to you if you refuse to wear the AIDS awareness ribbon:
http://barnesworld.blogs.com/barnes_world/2006/08/seinfeld_meets_.html
C. S. Wyatt
Apr 17, 2008 at 4:39 pm
I hate ribbons, bumper stickers, and the yellow “on board” placards. I don’t need a wristband, a project [red] anything…
Someone makes money on these things. Worst of all, I noticed a “I support unions” ribbon… “Made in China” was in small print.
Marla
Apr 17, 2008 at 5:05 pm
“Something about how he holds his body, or his not saying much”
I know what you mean. I notice this too. Since I am around M all the time I don’t see it. But, when we are around groups of kids her age I am reminded quickly of the differences.
I don’t like the puzzle image. Even if I did I would feel odd putting something like that on my car. I am not bothered when other people do. I figure it is personal choice. Often, when we are out and about I don’t want people approaching me or starting up conversations about Autism with M there. I think it would be too much.
Synesthesia
Apr 17, 2008 at 7:05 pm
I never quite like all of these ribbons. They are a bit gaudy to me.
The puzzle one bothers me a bit.
Regan
Apr 17, 2008 at 7:40 pm
List of awareness ribbons.
Quite honestly, I am sure that I have seen these, but except for the red AIDS ribbon,
have been kind of ignorant of what the particular ribbon signified.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_awareness_ribbons
Being in a military family, we were one of those folks who festooned the tree outside with
those yellow ribbons during the Iran hostage situation.
While I understand the sentiment, I have to say that for myself, slapping a magnet on the car
didn’t feel quite the same.
A friend gave us a puzzle ribbon car magnet and it was on the car for awhile until we hit a pothole and it fell off. I don’t think I am buying another. If Eleanor wanted one, that would be another thing, but I never saw any interest. She does like the 60’s styles daisies though.
I can see Chuck’s point, if law enforcement knows about the significance. We have an “autistic person lives here” sign in the window in the event of fire or emergency. I think there are similar for automobiles.
Kassiane
Apr 17, 2008 at 7:57 pm
I want an awarnessitis ribbon. Half the time people dont know the first thing about what they’re “aware” of.
I DO have a car decal that says “occupant with autism”, but it’s small and on the window. You have to be AT the window to read it.
Jill
Apr 17, 2008 at 10:02 pm
I ordered a new license plate today for my new car and it will have Autism Awareness on it. It is not much money but it does go for an organization here in Ohio that helps parents with children that are newly diagnosed. I actually met another mother while waiting at the McDonalds drive-thru when she had a sticker on her car. We had corresponded before on the internet and it was great to meet her in person. However, more people are aware when they run into my children at the store, at the swimming pool or visiting the park or store. I had a little problem today at the pool when the lights went out and we were not allowed in the water. My son was trying to turn on every light switch around so he could swim. It was a major struggle but the lights did finally come back on and he was able to swim. However, many people became aware of autism during that 15 minute period.
Daisy
Apr 17, 2008 at 10:35 pm
If you think like a teacher, awareness is the lowest form of knowledge. I’d like to see the public face of autism move beyond awareness and the need for ribbons. Soon, please.
Pete
Apr 18, 2008 at 8:55 am
I started wearing a blue autism awareness wristband over a year ago, more to remind me that my challenges day to day are trivial, compared to my daughter’s daily challenges at age 5 with PDD-NOS. I naively thought that perhaps it might also spur some people to ask me what the blue wristband stood for….in 18 months, not a single person, not even relatives, have asked what it represents! So much for creating awareness! I continue to wear it now, just for me, to ensure I keep my eyes on the important stuff.
Ingrid
Apr 18, 2008 at 8:10 pm
“If the ribbon was not there and a police officer saw this situation, what would his reaction be and would that reaction endanger my child?”
I considered putting a ribbon on my car for a similar reason. My Ds (5) loves to get out of his seat and wander the car. Sometimes there’s too much traffic for me to be able to pull over to strap him back in. I don’t want to get pulled over and get a fat ticket. Thankfully in the 3 years where he did it frequently that didn’t happen.
S.L.
Apr 18, 2008 at 9:20 pm
I don’t know if a ribbon on your car would change anything. People see the ribbon, and it’s like “ooh, autism” (or “diabetes” or “Darfur” et al) and then it’s gone from their mind. Unless, of course, they have been personally affected by any of those issues.
With all this supposed “autism awareness” in the air, it’s amazing the majority of people still don’t ‘get it.’ We still get the disapproving stares (can’t you stop your child?), we still have school districts unsure how best to help our children, and most of us have no clue what services are going to be available to our children as they become adults. It’s frustrating.
I do think the “occupant has autism” stickers or the ones you place on the car seat (listing autism, plus personal information) are helpful and can be effective.
Chuck
Apr 18, 2008 at 10:55 pm
Given that my son will sit where ever he wants, I wouldn’t know where to put a sticker. Also given the fact that police sit and stare at the back of the car to call in your tags, it makes the most sense to put something that will catch his attention to potential problems directly in his line of sight.
Kristina Chew, PhD
Apr 18, 2008 at 11:00 pm
Of late, Charlie’s been insistent about keeping his seatbelt on and about telling the rest of to do the same (except for whoever sits on the left side of the back seat—-he dropped a dime into the seat belt a few days after we bought the car and we have never been to get it out).
I have had to pull over when Charlie was having a really tough time in the car once—next thing I knew, a police car drove up. I still had the magnet on the car at that point but it was not noted—-I had to show my driver’s license.
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Bonnie Sayers
May 12, 2008 at 12:36 pm
My magnet got removed at the car wash and never found again. I used to adorn my other minivan with bumper stickers. Once when I left the gym and was heading home this man followed me to every light beeping and wanted to know more since his daughter had just been diagnosed.
It seemed to be a way to identify my car as people in grocery store would say are you the one with the autism signs and once someone walked by my house and saw the minivan on street and said is that yours and proceeded to have a conversation with me about autism.
I have coasters on coffee table and also magnets on the fridgerator. One says autism rocks, and flaps and the other says april is autism awareness month.
It is a start to spark a conversation most of the time. I also have the car magnet that says occupant has autism and may not follow verbal commands and then one that has a place for their names to say they have autism.
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