the Power of Positive Shaming

Shaming can be positive and healthy. Really. No sarcasm here, and no mean spirit.

Think of it this way: What ideals do we hold as SO beautiful, SO vitally important that we as a group would wish to make it shameful for someone who holds a specific role in our group not to live up to? These ideals reflect our values.

Here are a few examples. I believe:

• Parents should love their children.

• Executives should treat employees of all genders equally.

• Presidents should demonstrate respect for all people they represent, regardless of skin color, race, or religion.

Notice I’ve written these ideals in terms of positive behaviors. In other words, I did not say the president should NOT be a misogynistic liar for example. Though imagining what we don’t want can certainly help us more clearly define what we do want. 

Also note that shaming a person for attributes such as birth country or body type is NOT in the category of “positive shaming.” Positive shaming emanates from a core of goodness.

How can we harness the power of Positive Shaming this election season?

We can start by answering 2 questions.

What positive ideals do we uphold as vital for whomever holds the role of U.S. president?

What positive ideals do we uphold as vital for all eligible voters?

#shamecampaign2020 #theshamelady