I want to like this space, I really do.
I've met some amazing people on here, like really really lovely people - both models and members.
At the same time, there are a number of disheartening themes on here that have been the case since I first submitted a set in the early 2010's.
SG tends to feature models who are from a narrow demographic: often light skinned, thin (rarely plus size), able-bodied (I haven't seen a visibly disabled model on here in years), and although some models who became Suicide Girls when they're young still get featured, most featured models are under 26.
I realize all these things are not uncommon in the world of modeling.. but the whole point of SuicideGirls- hell, the whole story behind the name itself- was supposed to be featuring models who you wouldn't normally see LITERALLY EVERYWHERE ELSE.
This isn't to say that the thin, young, light skinned, able bodied models on here aren't doing fantastic work. I would just rather spend my time and money where I can support a variety of SWers in a variety of bodies.
*Real quick, I want to acknowledge that there may be models on here who have chronic illness or invisible disabilities. That's totally valid. At the same time, people with visible disabilities are so rarely featured ANYWHERE.
And, let's be honest, this site is very cis-normative. A lot of spaces on this site don't feel safe for me as a nonbinary person, I imagine it's the same or worse for trans folks.
I am mentally preparing myself for defensiveness, token examples for various marginalized groups, etc.. and I just have this to say:
Check your privilege. If you feel yourself getting angry at me for pointing out a lack of inclusiveness; if you don't have to think about age or disability or gender or size or skin color when you're in a space, you don't get to talk over or dismiss the words of people living in marginalized bodies.
And if none of this applies to you, cool! If you have had similar observations, or have been affected by any of the things I've mentioned, I'd encourage you to speak up as well.
Anyway, those are just the thoughts of a 31 year old, Disabled, genderqueer Jew.
