Many thanks to Ashton Applewhite, author of This Chair Rocks: A Manifesto Against Ageism, for sharing her call to arms with local audiences at a number of events this past week.
From childhood on, we’re barraged by messages that it’s sad to be old. That wrinkles are embarrassing, and old people useless. Author and activist Ashton Applewhite believed them too—until she realized where this prejudice comes from and the damage it does. Ashton shared her journey from apprehensive boomer to pro-aging radical, and in the process debunking myth after myth about late life.
Her book explains the roots of ageism—in history and in our own age denial—and how it divides and debases, examines how ageist myths and stereotypes cripple the way our brains and bodies function, looks at ageism in the workplace and the bedroom, exposes the cost of the all-American myth of independence, critiques the portrayal of olders as burdens to society, describes what an all-age-friendly world would look like, and concludes with a rousing call to action. Whether you’re older or hoping to get there, this book will shake you by the shoulders, cheer you up, make you mad, and change the way you see the rest of your life. Age pride!
Take a look at the photos from our two events:
Reimagine Aging Breakfast, Sept. 14
Seattle Speaks with Ashton Applewhite on Age Equality, Sept. 18
Learn more about Ashton and buy her book today!