Aesthetic Havens
Look for the following sign to know that a location is safe to express yourself visually. Whether allowing your true self to show through or trying something on for fun, all design choices are welcome. Nothing sponsored. No ads here. Just a list of places you can present as yourself.
Canton Local
Places in or near Canton to strut your stuff any time.
2663 Cleveland Ave NW
Canton, OH 44709
Queer in Canton works to build community and help LGBTQAI+ people and allies across Stark County find belonging.
- Friendly community center with events and activities for a wide range of ages
- Overflowing community closet
- Free resources for various medical and wellness needs
- Support groups and gatherings
4639 Tuscarawas St W
Canton, OH 44708
Very supportive and encouraging to anyone seeking a new look. Excellent prices and variety with grand aspirations for the community.
The Thrift Chicks
2729a Fulton Dr NW
Canton, OH 44718
Paul’s Gamerzone
4304 Lincoln Way E
Massillon, OH 44646
“Our Mission at Paul’s Gamerzone is to provide a safe and family-friendly environment to promote the gaming community here in North East Ohio. We welcome all gamers of all different backgrounds and skill levels to come in and become apart of our gaming community!”
Northeast Ohio
Not quite around the corner, but close in spirit!
The Burnt Pickle
1655 E Main St
Kent, OH 44240
Why?
The human body has been used as a canvas to express oneself for the entirety of our history. It is upsetting that we cannot currently look to each other and assume that the visage we see is a reflection of the person inside.
Furthermore, we are observant, curious creatures that have always sought to copy or emulate the traits of other things. From deep sea diving to free flight, we have never been able to resist the call of experience. It is not enough to observe; we must try.
Every civilization has lore of humanoid entities that are described as attractive, appealing, or intriguing. It stands to reason that we would, inevitably, want to take on those forms for ourselves. Lack of physical ability to do so safely causes substantial resentment and often shuts down avenues to address the root cause of a person’s discomfort. One who has an innate desire to appear skeletal does not require the same course of care as one who develops an eating disorder due to external stressors such as judgment or lack of agency and the accompanying need to regain some semblance of control. In all cases, the goal must be towards balance between mental and physical wellness, rather than an obsession with pure longevity that decimates any chance to be a creative and productive individual with your given time.
We are not at a point yet to be able to determine why we each feel pulled towards different attributes and actions in the world around us; right now we can only focus on honing our skills. Attempting to force each individual being to experience and carry the weight of the entire human race has clearly not yielded good results. It is time to do what we do and try something else. Bring back specialization and allow folks to try different things to reignite innovation.
Why is this a CareSan project?
Due to various factors, there have been many times when I was able to get away with confidently wearing things that most others would not. I know how important it is to be able to look like oneself–and have also felt the weight of not being able to do so.
I know how it feels to be limited by fears and expectations based on your physical appearance, as well as having to make alterations for reasons of safety. So, to those who may be wondering: Yes, this is a personal endeavor, though I do not presently consider myself a beneficiary.
Basic Etiquette
AKA: Modern Manners
Note: There is a lot of rambling, here. Please be patient while I get my thoughts in order. In the meantime, this video has recently come out and it seems to do a decent job of encapsulating many of my thoughts on the matter: Sorted Food – Etiquette Interview
Etiquette is not about anyone telling you what you can and cannot do or merely superfluous ritualization of plates and forks to complicate a simple necessity like food. Consider etiquette to be more akin to a guidebook that teaches you all the secret handshakes for the area you’re going to be visiting before you get there and wind up stuck in a social interaction you aren’t prepared for. The rise of social awkwardness is directly related to the vilifying of rules and etiquette. It’s not that you’re somehow defective; those in previous generations were literally taught things that you were not.
Also consider etiquette and manners to be a facet of nonverbal communication. Much like studying sign language, cultural gestures, flags, or hand signals, a knowledge of manners allows you convey your intentions and feelings more effectively and completely. This cuts down on miscommunications and reduces the likelihood that you will accidentally hurt someone that you might care about. Avoiding offense is not about fear of retribution, but rather a way to show care and respect to those you are interacting with. It is a genuine desire to not cause undue stress or pain to another. Just as walking through a crowded room without stepping on toes takes focus, skill, and training, so does navigating social situations. Understand that we are all learning to dance together for the first time and it will require some patience and kindness–especially towards ourselves. Missteps are bound to happen and the most dexterous dancer will be just as proficient in a graceful apology as a pirouette.
Taking your shoes off is an understood and widely accepted sign of respect for one’s home and appreciation for being welcomed in.
This section is still under construction. Check back soon for updates!
Rule 1: Be considerate. Consider the consequences that your actions will have on yourself and others before committing to act.
If you know a person who would want their establishment to be added to this list, have the interested party contact CaretakerQueries@gmail.com. To share a personal experience, make a referral, or ask a question, you can fill out the form below.