What is a Sliding Scale
In a capitalist framework, financial access and worth are dictated by various factors such as race, perceived gender identity, disability/ability, immigration status, and primary language, among others.
These imposed hierarchies create disparities in our ability to afford necessities. Income alone does not determine affordability; factors like caregiving responsibilities, access to generational wealth, and expenses related to disabilities also shape our financial landscape.
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To address these inequities, a sliding scale approach is employed. This method encourages individuals to pay based on their available resources. Those with greater financial means contribute more, enabling those with limited access to pay proportionately. This ensures that essential services can be sustained while maximizing accessibility to a broader audience.
How do I Choose What to Pay?
The Green Bottle chart below expands our understanding of financial privilege and experience. Please use it to determine the level you’re able to invest. See below for image description.
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I offer a scale that is informed by Alexis J. Cunningfolk of Worts & Cunning Apothecary who developed this helpful image to unpack what financial privilege and access look like. To learn more please read The Sliding Scale: A Tool for Economic Justice.)
Thank you to Booth Jennifer Patterson and Alexis for your powerful work around accessibility!
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