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What is a Sliding Scale 

In a capitalist framework, an individual's financial access and worth are not solely determined by their income but are heavily influenced by various socioeconomic factors. These include race, perceived gender identity, sexual orientation, disability status, immigration status, and primary language, among others.

 

These imposed hierarchies create significant disparities in individuals' ability to afford necessities. Income alone does not paint a complete picture of affordability. Other critical factors include caregiving responsibilities, access to generational wealth, and additional expenses related to disabilities. These elements collectively shape an individual's financial landscape.

 

To address these inequities, a sliding-scale approach to pricing is adopted. This method encourages individuals to pay based on their available resources rather than a fixed rate. The underlying principle is that those with greater financial means contribute more, enabling those with limited access to pay proportionately. By implementing a sliding scale system, essential services can be sustained financially while simultaneously maximizing accessibility to a broader and more diverse population. This approach represents a step towards creating a more equitable economic model that acknowledges and attempts to counteract the complex web of factors contributing to financial inequality in capitalist frameworks.

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Community Pricing: Partial Scholarships are available if you identify as BIPOC ( Black, Indigenous and People of Color) or if you are experiencing financial hardship (the mostly empty green bottle). Please email me at info@shedekamarriott.com to inquire or ask during a consult. 

 

Sustainer Pricing: The standard rate for sessions (the half-full green bottle). 

 

Supporter Pricing is for you if you’re able to pay a little more for sessions. This allows me to offer the Community Pricing Partial Scholarships. Think of it as “Pay it Forward” Pricing. (the full green bottle on the left).

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 both Jennifer Patterson and Alexis for your powerful work around accessibility!

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