Mariann Aalda: Ageism Is a Bully…Stand Up to It! | TEDx Talk
The TEDx Talk “Ageism is a bully….stand up to it” by Mariann Aalda is a personal and powerful exploration of ageism and its effects on individuals and society. Aalda begins by sharing her own experience with ageism, recounting a time when she was told that she was “too old” to play a romantic lead in a play. She emphasizes that ageism is not just a problem for older adults, but affects people of all ages. The speaker then explores how ageism is perpetuated in society, from media representations of aging to employment discrimination. She highlights how ageism can limit individuals’ opportunities and perpetuate negative stereotypes about aging. Aalda also emphasizes the importance of intergenerational relationships in combatting ageism and encourages viewers to challenge ageist beliefs and behaviors. She argues that by standing up to ageism, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society for people of all ages. The TED Talk concludes with a call to action, urging viewers to take concrete steps to stand up to ageism in their own lives and communities. The speaker emphasizes that by speaking out against ageism and promoting age diversity and inclusion, we can create a more just and compassionate society for people of all ages.