Retiring boss used stigma out of insecurities
Hi:
I am on the autism spectrum and work in an enviroment with some very educated people who have PhDs while emerging. Anyway, I worked in the office when my retiring boss happened to be moving things out of his old office as he retires at the end of the month.
Being that I got my bachelor's degree I am looking to get my master's degree as well. When I happened to break the news to him, he was extremely dismissive and discouraging. All he said to me was "I hope it works. Graduate school is a long haul and the work is twice as hard," and he gave me laughter of disbelief. This was coming from someone who dedicated his work include individuals on the spectrum and always preaching about acceptance and inclusion. He himself has a PhD. His wife is also on the spectrum and we are very good friends.
He made me cry but I had a chance to process what he said and listen to some other videos.
1. He probably feels insecure because I had happen to have business relationships with some really well known people who he and his wife are fans of
2. I have also been able to do some really cool opportunities that have made me pretty well rounded which makes him feel really insecure
Hi @Summershy
I'm sorry to hear you had to experienced how unfair and hurting stigma is and came from a professional that is. If that is the first time he did that, it could be insecurities or sensitivity due to retirement.
However, stigma is unsupportive, ignorance and prejudice and it doesn't define you ♡
I was just starting discussion few days ago about the importance of destigmatize mental health here at Content Volunteer Subcommunity and you are very welcome to share your thoughts :)
@ouiCherie
I was talking to a former colleague of mine who has different disabilities and he said that this retiring director is a jerk and is known to be very full of himself. From what I understand, he used to cut my other colleague down all the time.
However, I am learning that he's a phony. Basically, he preaches all the time about how disabled people should be included and accepted. Then he turns around and cuts disabled people down who really do want to prove themselves worthy. I am very hurt and very disappointed but I know how to invest any time in him. There are plenty of other people who I know will be supportive of me. In fact, I believe the new director will be very good for the center.
