AnonymousPlease reconsider your decision.
I think it’s incredibly classist for FYFTMs to ban images of individuals who use ace bandages and duct tape. You’re erasing a group of individuals who do not have access to proper binders, and who, likely out of desperation, use what is available to them without a) costing them money they don’t have, or b) revealing their trans* status in a potentially life-threatening situation.
I am aware of the harm that is caused by ACE bandages and duct tape. I also understand what it takes to potentially harm one’s body in a desperate attempt to find a reason to live. If you “get it,” like you claim to, then you won’t exclude those who have no other choice. You’ll show them that they too can be a part of this blog, just like people who happen to have the money and ability to purchase safer binders.
You don’t have to condone these methods, and no one is asking you to do so. You can be inclusive without being careless. If it’s too much work for you to add a disclaimer to every post, request that submissions showing bandages/duct tape/whatever include a disclaimer acknowledging the risks and dangers of binding in that way. No self-disclaimer, no post. That way you educate, encourage others to educate their peers and themselves, and you include those who use the resources available to them.
I implore you to reconsider this submission ban. Don’t punish members of the trans* community because they are less fortunate than others. We receive enough punishment for being trans*, don’t add FYFTMs to the mix.
Sincerely,
Mod: The problem is about the hate the community directs at people who do submit those photos. By posting the photos members of the community feel that we ARE condoning it. The mods have used Ace Bandages in the past and we know the dangers. We did it anyways because it’s all we had. Everyone is absolutely a part of this blog, but by choosing not to post their photos using ace bandages wer are not excluding them. We are trying not to encourage other guys to do the same thing.
We’re not going to exclude anyone but we feel others are correct: it’s dangerous and we have to do something. For now this is what we’re doing. That said the self disclaimer sounds like an idea, that and putting it under a cut. What does the community think?
I think having a disclaimer is a good idea. I really don’t see how “Everyone is absolutely a part of this blog” if some people are excluded because of the way they bind. Hiding something won’t solve the problem of binding with ace bandage and those guys already probably feel really bad because of unability to bind properly or in a safe way. That’s not fair to be rejected/hidden even in the ftm community. I thought this blog was a safe space for every trans guys.
Alright, trans* siblings. We’re gonna have a quick sit down about how to bind with ace bandages in a more safe manner. Ideally, you wouldn’t have to, but if you have to, here’s how to do it safely. I’m not going to discuss duct tape, because NO BAD NEVER. If you can afford/steal a roll of duct tape, you can afford/steal an ace bandage, and the ace bandages are reuseable. Note: not condoning theft. Just saying that it happens, and I’m not judging or condemning you either.
1). Wear something under your ace bandage. This will prevent it from cutting into your skin. If you bind so tight you are cutting skin, it’s TOO TIGHT. A too small a shirt will also help compress somewhat and then you can also pin the ace bandage in place.
2). Use the largest ace bandage you can afford/steal. Larger means you get more coverage for the money and it’s much more even. It’s more effective and better for you, win win situation. Not to mention one six inch ace bandage will do the same thing as two three inch ones with WAY, WAY less hassle.
3). Take a deep breath and hold it while you’re wrapping yourself up. Push up and into your arm pits, cis guys have bumps too. Wrap snugly, but not too snugly, putting light pressure on the bandage. LIGHT. You do NOT want to wrap as tight as you can, that won’t end well for your ribs or lungs. Pin down with safety pins, to your a-shirt if you want.
With an ace bandage, you should probably try to bind less frequently if you can. Same rules about coughing and never in your sleep apply.
