Christa’s story

Years ago, I came across a quote from Shirly Chisholm: ‘if they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair’. Shirley Chisholm was an African American woman who achieved many firsts in the US Legislature during the 1960’s and ‘70’s. Regardless of how you may feel about her politics, she was denied many seats at many tables – just like many of us. 

I have carried her advice with me, and it has certainly served me well in the past, for example, when medical professionals are talking about me and not to me or when I become familiar with an issue that requires the input of someone with my lived experience. 

Over the years I have learnt that bringing your own chair to the table is not the only way to achieve the outcome you are seeking. Sometimes, you need to reach out to the head of the table and make a case for an invitation. Sometimes, you need find someone who already has a seat at the table to represent you and your needs. Sometimes the only thing to do is to sweep everything off the table, jump up on it, and dance your heart out so they have no option but to pay attention and listen to what you have to say.