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This mother is paving the way for neurodiversity inclusion < Back Neurodiversity, Parenting, Community How this community is ending isolation for Neurodivergent youth This mother is paving the way for neurodiversity inclusion MMS Staff 14 Jan 2025 4-min read In a world where loneliness and isolation are all too common for neurodivergent individuals, Special Hangout stands as a much-needed beacon of hope, offering connection and belonging to neurodivergent individuals and their families. Founded by Ritu Vig, a dedicated mother of two sons — one neurotypical and one neurodivergent — this grassroots organization is creating waves by addressing a critical need: spaces where children with disabilities and their families can simply be themselves without fear of judgment or exclusion. A Personal Journey to Inclusion Ritu's journey into creating Special Hangout is deeply personal. Raising two sons, Kritin (22), who is neurodivergent, and Pranit (17), Ritu faced the challenges of balancing the needs of her children in a world that isn’t always accommodating. As they were growing up, I always felt that Pranit had a lot of friends and a lot of venues to go to with his friends and play with and spend time with them. Whereas, Kritin always longed to have those friendships. He had some friends in school, but if you'd ask me, after coming home there was nowhere he could go. Even if he did go downstairs with his brother Pranit and his friends, he was called names, he was bullied. “There was a point where Kritin would watch the children play from our balcony, and ask me, ‘Can I go down now? I promise I won’t trouble them!’” Ritu recalls, her voice tinged with the emotion of a mother who only wanted to provide her son with the same social experiences that every child deserves. But it wasn't just Kritin who was affected. Pranit, too, struggled with the emotional toll of witnessing his brother's exclusion. It was in these heart-wrenching moments that Ritu realized: This isn't just about my son — this is a universal issue for neurodivergent children everywhere. And so, Special Hangout was born — initially as small playdates, and now blossomed into an inclusive community with over 375 families involved. The Power of Togetherness The organization started small, but it didn't take long for the need for safe, inclusive spaces to become apparent. Events began to take shape, crafted with an understanding that every neurodivergent individual is different, and every family’s needs are unique. From Dandiya nights to movie screenings, every event is thoughtfully planned to accommodate sensory sensitivities, ensure comfort, and, most importantly, create a space where these young people and their families feel seen, heard, and valued. “We have to think about everything — sound levels, lighting, food preferences,” Ritu explains. For example, during our Diwali party, there were no crackers, because we know that many children are sensitive to them. At a movie screening, we made sure that if any child wanted to walk around, or touch the screen, or bring their own food, it was completely fine. There was even a trampoline for them to use when they needed a break. This attention to detail has made Special Hangout events feel like more than just social gatherings — they’re opportunities for neurodivergent children to have experiences that are both fun and comfortable, fostering connection and belonging without pressure. Breaking Myths, One Art at a Time A key part of the Special Hangout’s mission is debunking misconceptions about neurodivergence. Ritu highlights one of the most damaging myths: that neurodivergent individuals are “incapable” of accomplishing things. “It’s heartbreaking to hear people say that if a child can’t talk, they can’t write stories or paint beautiful pictures,” Ritu says. “We’ve seen these children achieve things that put us all to shame. They are just wired differently, they are different, not less.” One powerful example of this came during a painting exhibition at Kala Ghoda, where neurodivergent artists showcased their stunning works. “We sold artworks for around Rs 5 lakh to 6 lakh,” Ritu beams. “And what was incredible was the number of people who, without knowing us, walked in and bought several pieces. Even judges from the High Court bought paintings. It’s a testament to the fact that art transcends boundaries and appreciation goes beyond expectations.” Overcoming Challenges: Building Trust and Acceptance Despite the growing success, Ritu admits that gaining the trust of parents has been a major challenge. “It’s difficult to convince parents that these events are just as important as therapy,” she says. Many parents still prioritize structured therapy over social experiences, but Ritu emphasizes that Special Hangout’s unstructured, relaxed approach allows both the children and their parents to relax. “We don’t want to put any pressure on the children to perform. If they want to play cricket during a painting session, they can. We’re not concerned with structure, we’re focused on creating real connections,” Ritu explains. And it’s working. Parents are slowly but surely seeing the benefits of giving their children the freedom to just be without any constraints. A Vision for a More Inclusive Future As Special Hangout continues to grow, Ritu’s vision is clear: to create more safe spaces for neurodivergent individuals and their families across India. The organization’s “Hangout Buddies” program, which connects neurodivergent people with neurotypical buddies from all over India, is one step toward achieving that goal. From coffee dates to cultural celebrations, these buddy pairs are breaking down the walls of isolation and creating friendships that transcend difference. But Ritu doesn’t stop there. “I want Special Hangout in every city, street, and corner of Mumbai — and then beyond,” she says with unwavering determination. “There’s a huge demand from parents in the suburbs, and it’s time we expand. The need for these spaces is urgent, and I believe Special Hangout can be the solution.” Ritu Vig’s tireless work is changing the landscape of inclusion for neurodivergent individuals and their families. But as she says, “We need society’s acceptance. The ableism must go. We have to realise that the society belongs equally to them as much as it does to the neurotypicals/abled individuals.” Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

We examine what constitutes good and bad representation as per SC's latest guidelines < Back Disability, Media Disability Humour vs Disabling Humour in media We examine what constitutes good and bad representation as per SC's latest guidelines MMS Staff 10 Jul 2024 3-min read In a landmark moment in Indian history, the Supreme Court on July 8 issued a series of guidelines for the depiction of disabled and neurodivergent individuals in films, TV shows and online content. The guidelines are for creators, directors, producers and various other stakeholders in media that play a role in creating and disseminating films and content in the public domain. One of the sections in the final document released by the SC, titled Caveat, clearly laid down the distinction between disability humour and disabled humour. While the former ‘challenges conventional wisdom about disability,’ the latter ‘demeans and disparages persons with disability,’ the order said. Despite the history and the obsolescence of the medical model, humour is not universally denounced in the context of disability. It is now being increasingly used as a sophisticated literary medium for engagement with the society by persons with disabilities. It familiarises the society with the lived experiences of persons with disability, thereby dispelling prejudicial myths, and sensitising people. Challenging notions of ‘otherness’ or ‘inferiority’ associated with persons with disability, humour creates an equal space. Comics with disabilities use self-deprecating humour to critique the social order and counter stereotypical images101. They bring stereotypes to the fore and rely on them in order to dispel them. Humour is a reclamation of the public discourse by persons with disabilities who are pushing back against the dominant, ableist narratives around disability. Below, we’ve broken down the key differences (with examples) of what constitutes disability humour and what falls under disabling humour. Disability humour is: Empowering. It pokes fun at the social barriers and stereotypes faced by disabled individuals. It does not make fun of the disabled individuals themselves. Inclusive. It includes disabled people in the creation process and its delivery, ensuring authenticity and respect. Educational. It highlights the misconceptions that exist, and seeks to educate the audience about disability through humour. Positive in its representation. It shows disabled characters as multidimensional individuals, capable of having a sense of humour and leading fulfilling lives. Contextually sensitive. It avoids reinforcing negative stereotypes or perpetuating harmful narratives about this diverse community. Disabling humour, on the other hand, is: Harmful. It pokes fun at disabled individuals, or their disabilities, reinforcing negative stereotypes and prejudices. Exclusionary. It is often created and disseminated by non-disabled individuals - or individuals with little to no exposure to disabled lives - without the input or perspective of the disabled community. Ignorant. It reflects a lack of understanding about the realities of living with a disability. Negative in its representation. It portrays disabled characters in a negative light, often as objects of pity or ridicule. Insensitive. It lacks empathy and is insensitive to the impact of the humour on disabled individuals and the broader disability community. To sum it up, the guidelines say that humour can be a powerful tool for positive representation and awareness when done respectfully and inclusively. On the other hand, humour that reinforces harmful stereotypes and further marginalises disabled individuals should be avoided in media representation. Here are some examples of both: Disability humour: A disabled comedian making fun of inaccessible public spaces to highlight the absurdity and need for change. TV shows like ‘Speechless,’ where disabled characters are portrayed with depth and their humour is rooted in everyday experiences. Comedians like Maysoon Zayid, Josh Blue, and Hannah Gadsby use their talent and sense of humour to break down stereotypes and talk about their lived experiences. Disabling humour: Jokes that rely on mocking disabled individuals, such as making fun of someone’s gait or speech, to demean and belittle them. Using disabled characters as the butt of jokes, like in the Hindi film Golmaal where a speech disfluency is used for cheap laughs without any real representation. And finally, here’s some examples of good and bad representation: Shows such as ‘Special,’ which was created by and stars a gay man with cerebral palsy, using humour to explore real-life challenges. Comedy sketches such as ‘Nanette’ by Hannah Gadsby where humour is used to teach the audience about disability. And on the other side of the fence, there’s Dr Evil's sidekick, Mini-Me, in ‘Austin Powers,’ is routinely ridiculed for their size. The Golmaal series, which makes fun of speech disfluency, deafness, blindness and other disabilities through its crass humour. The Bollywood film Housefull 3 in which the three lead characters fake their disabilities. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Tesla CEO made a sarcastic tweet about CrowdStrike’s partnership with global inclusion company < Back Work, News Musk's controversial claim: DEI hiring responsible for IT outage Tesla CEO made a sarcastic tweet about CrowdStrike’s partnership with global inclusion company MMS Staff 21 Jul 2024 1-min read While much of the world was reeling from the global IT outage over Thursday and Friday, X CEO Elon Musk did not miss a chance to use the opportunity to take yet another potshot at DEI hiring. American cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike, which provides cloud workload protection and endpoint security, threat intelligence, and cyberattack response services, was responsible for one of the biggest IT outages in history on Friday, affecting 8.5 million Windows devices, when an update to one of its applications, Falcon, went live with a coding error built in. CrowdStrike has raised millions in funding from Silicon Valley, employs thousands from around the globe, and reportedly services 538 out of the Fortune 1000 companies. Plus they're also big on DEI hiring. CrowdStrike is a Gold Partner of Bright Network's Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging panel. Bright Network, a media tech platform, connects graduates from various backgrounds with suitable employers. And as part of this partnership, CrowdStrike says they're committed to creating an equitable and inclusive workplace. On Friday, following news about the outage, Elon Musk replied to a 2-year-old tweet by CrowdStrike about their association with Bright Network. In it, he simply said: "Not very 'bright' right now, is it?" The replies to his tweet, too, were largely in support of his skewed stance on the matter. DEI initiatives at various US-based companies have recently seen a pushback from upper management, with Tesla reportedly dropping language referencing diversity from its annual shareholder report earlier this year. Microsoft, too, recently laid off a team that was devoted to diversity, equity & inclusion. Shortly after that, tractor company John Deere announced they would do away with nearly all their DEI policies in favour of a quality-based workplace. Other companies who have recently either completely eliminated or reduced the size of their DEI teams include Zoom, Snap, Google, and Meta. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Societal prejudice and online ableism faced by the influencer with dwarfism. < Back Disability, News Abdu Rozik Reacts to Trolling After Wedding Announcement Societal prejudice and online ableism faced by the influencer with dwarfism. MMS Staff 18 May 2024 3-min read In the world of social media, where personal milestones are celebrated publicly, joy can often be tainted by the harsh reality of online trolling. This was the unfortunate experience of Abdu Rozik, a famous influencer and singer, who recently announced his engagement to 19-year-old Amira. While the news was met with a wave of support from his celebrity friends, it also drew a barrage of cruel and hurtful comments from netizens, highlighting a persistent issue in our society: ableism faced by people with disabilities. Abdu Rozik, a 20 years-old celebrity influencer, little person (person with dwarfism), has built a successful career and amassed a significant following. Sharing his joyous engagement news should have been a time of pure celebration. Instead, it revealed the darker side of social media, where bias and prejudice still thrive. Responding to the negativity, Abdu released an official statement expressing his dismay. "The negative comments and those who are making fun of me and being nasty is very sad," he said. "Imagine Amira and her family are reading these comments." His words underscore the emotional impact that such trolling can have, not only on the individuals directly targeted but also on their loved ones. Abdu’s statement sheds light on the broader issue of societal attitudes towards people with dwarfism. "We went public after a lot of discussion and reluctance," he revealed, "and unfortunately it is going from best news to a nightmare." Reflecting on his past, Abdu admitted, "I used to be ashamed of who I am and my size, and many families used to hide their children who are like me. But now allhamdulillah, I and all the others like me have to stand tall and be accepted." People with dwarfism have historically been marginalized in the media, often cast in roles designed for comic relief rather than serious or nuanced portrayals. This harmful stereotype reduces their complex identities to mere punchlines, perpetuating misconceptions and fostering a culture of ridicule. Characters with dwarfism are frequently depicted as childlike or buffoonish, reinforcing a narrow and demeaning view of their capabilities and humanity. This trend not only denies actors with dwarfism the opportunity to showcase their talents in diverse roles but also impacts societal attitudes, contributing to the ongoing stigma and discrimination they face in everyday life. It is crucial for the media to move beyond these outdated portrayals and represent people with dwarfism with the dignity and respect they deserve. Understanding and Respecting People with Dwarfism To combat the ignorance and prejudice that Abdu and others like him face, it's crucial to educate ourselves about dwarfism and how to interact respectfully with those who have it. Here are some important points to consider: Language Matters: Avoid using outdated and offensive terms like "m*dget." Instead, use "person with dwarfism," which is respectful and accurate. Respect and Courtesy: Treat individuals with dwarfism with the same respect and courtesy you would anyone else. They are no different in terms of their cognitive abilities and deserve equal respect. Combat Stereotypes: People with dwarfism are often unfairly infantilized or used for comedic relief in media portrayals. Recognize and challenge these stereotypes to promote a more accurate and respectful understanding. Educate Yourself: Lack of knowledge often leads to unintentional exclusion or insensitivity. By learning about dwarfism, you can become a more informed and supportive ally. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

In India, awareness about dyslexia is growing, but there is still a long way to go. < Back Neurodiversity, LGBTQIA+, Health Living with Dyslexia: My journey as a dyslexic lesbian author in India In India, awareness about dyslexia is growing, but there is still a long way to go. K Vaishali 31 May 2024 5-min read I’m K Vaishali, the author of 'Homeless: Growing Up, Lesbian and Dyslexic in India.' My journey has been filled with challenges, many of which stem from being diagnosed late with dyslexia and dysgraphia at the age of 20. This diagnosis came after years of struggling to understand why I found certain tasks so difficult. What is dyslexia? Dyslexia is a common learning disorder characterized by difficulties with reading, spelling, and writing. It affects the brain's ability to process written and spoken language, making it challenging for individuals to decode words and comprehend text. Dysgraphia, often associated with dyslexia, involves difficulties with handwriting and fine motor skills. According to the Dyslexia Association of India, approximately 10-15% of the population is affected by dyslexia, though many remain undiagnosed. My first memory of struggling with dyslexia dates back to the fourth standard when I received very low marks in a math exam. I had left many questions half-answered, a common issue for dyslexic students who may not realize they haven’t finished their tasks. Repeated spelling mistakes, such as writing "cost" as "coast," were frequent and often led to harsh reprimands from teachers and adults who thought I wasn’t trying hard enough. Tasks that were simple for others, like tying shoelaces or fastening my school tie, were huge challenges for me. I often got into trouble at school for these issues, which made me feel even more inadequate and frustrated. A particularly difficult period was in the seventh standard when my family moved from Chennai to Bombay. I had to switch from Tamil to Hindi as my second language. For a dyslexic person, learning multiple scripts—Tamil, English, and Hindi—was incredibly challenging. Tamil and Hindi, being completely different scripts, made this transition even harder. I remember attending tuition classes where my teacher would give me a second standard Hindi textbook. Struggling to read, I would underline long words and ask for their meanings, not realizing that underlining a character’s name was puzzling to my teacher. My undiagnosed dyslexia led to repeated academic failures. I flunked the seventh standard and had to repeat the year. Eventually, I switched to Sanskrit, which started from the basics and allowed me to pass. Myths and misconceptions Dyslexic individuals often face numerous myths and misconceptions, such as: Myth: Dyslexia is a sign of low intelligence. Reality: Dyslexia is unrelated to intelligence; many dyslexic individuals possess high creativity and problem-solving skills. Myth: Dyslexic people are lazy or not trying hard enough. Reality: Dyslexic individuals often work harder than their peers to achieve the same level of understanding and proficiency. Myth: Dyslexia can be outgrown. Reality: Dyslexia is a lifelong condition, but with the right support and strategies, individuals can successfully manage its challenges. Despite these challenges, adult life brought its own set of difficulties. I couldn’t complete my bachelor’s degree and struggled with various professional courses. I worked as an auditor but constantly mixed up numbers in balance sheets, a mistake that is unacceptable in that profession. Realizing that accountancy was not for me, I attempted a master’s in economics, only to discover that my difficulties with graphs and numbers persisted. It was only when I pursued a degree in communication that I found a path I could navigate. Writing became my outlet, and I authored my book. My journey has been isolating, with school being an especially unsafe space. Teachers misinterpreted my struggles as an attitude problem, and my dyslexia led to an eating disorder, causing anxiety before exams. I would binge eat months before exams, leading to weight gain and further bullying at school. Eating disorder involve complex relationships with food and body image, often manifesting as behaviors like binge eating, strict dieting, or purging. These are serious mental health conditions that require compassionate understanding and support. They can significantly impact physical health and emotional well-being, but with the right help, recovery is possible. In addition to my struggles with dyslexia, being a lesbian added another layer of complexity. Growing up, I felt different from my friends. They were attracted to boys, and because I wasn’t, I felt isolated. This feeling of not fitting in anywhere severely affected my self-esteem. I masked my true self for years, trying to conform to societal expectations, which brought me no happiness. Now, as an adult, I am more comfortable with my identity. I understand what dyslexia entails and seek help when needed, using various tools to perform my job well. Setting realistic expectations for myself has been a significant step. I often remind myself that just because others can do something doesn’t mean I have to do it the same way. I have learned to embrace my differences, focusing on my strengths rather than my limitations. In India, awareness about dyslexia is growing, but there is still a long way to go. According to the Dyslexia Association of India, many children go undiagnosed, and there is a lack of support in schools. It's important for educators and parents to recognize the signs of dyslexia early and provide the necessary support. Dyslexia is not a reflection of intelligence; many dyslexic individuals possess remarkable creativity and problem-solving skills. Supporting dyslexic individuals Support for dyslexic children and adults can significantly improve their quality of life and academic performance. Effective strategies include: Early diagnosis and intervention: Early identification of dyslexia allows for timely support and accommodations, reducing frustration and academic struggles. Tailored education plans: Individualized education programs (IEPs) can address specific learning needs and incorporate tools such as extra time for tests and the use of assistive technology. Multisensory teaching methods: Techniques that engage multiple senses can enhance learning and retention for dyslexic students. Positive reinforcement: Encouragement and recognition of effort and achievements can boost self-esteem and motivation. Mental health support: Access to counseling and mental health services can help manage the emotional impact of dyslexia and related conditions like anxiety and eating disorders. Buy K Vaishali's book here: https://amzn.in/d/5owZNiu Follow K Vaishali on socials: Instagram X (Twitter) LinkedIn Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

How the ADA has improved lives for disabled folx, and the challenges faced in enforcing this law < Back Disability, Neurodiversity, News 34 years of the ADA: Celebrating a milestone in disability rights How the ADA has improved lives for disabled folx, and the challenges faced in enforcing this law MMS Staff 25 Jul 2024 4-min read The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed July 26, 1990, marking a significant milestone in the fight for civil rights for people with disabilities. This landmark legislation protects individuals with visible and invisible disabilities from discrimination, ensuring they have equal rights and opportunities. The journey to the ADA One of the critical issues with disability-related acts is that while they aim to cover all disabilities and address various challenges faced by disabled individuals, the enforcement of these laws often depends on individual litigation. Simply put, unless someone files a case, courts are not obligated to mandate accessibility measures. This means the implementation of the law is not actively overseen unless people fight for their rights, which can be both time-consuming and expensive — an effort many disabled individuals cannot afford. The historic significance of the ADA Despite these challenges, the ADA remains a historical piece of legislation. An entire community came together to advocate for the passage of the ADA, culminating in a powerful demonstration known as the “Capitol Crawl.” Activists gathered at the Capitol Building in Washington, DC, and crawled up the steps to highlight the need for accessibility and inclusion. This act of reclaiming space became a pivotal moment in disability rights history. US Senator Tom Harkin, the author of the final bill, delivered his speech to the Senate in sign language, ensuring it was accessible to his deaf brother and highlighting the importance of inclusivity. President George HW Bush signed the bill into law, declaring, “Let the shameful wall of exclusion finally come tumbling down.” The impact of the ADA Thirty-four years later, the ADA has made several essential accessibility measures mandatory. Some disabled individuals express gratitude for the ADA's mandates, which include: Disabled parking lots Ramps Wheelchair seating in cinema halls Better access to employment and education These changes have significantly improved the lives of many, but there is still much work to be done. The ADA's reliance on individual litigation for enforcement means that not all aspects of the law are uniformly implemented. Advocacy and awareness remain crucial to ensuring the continued progress of disability rights. “Yes, things are better with the A.D.A. We have elevators, ramps and closed captioning. But the ADA is not a magic wand. (It) can only do so much to correct inequalities in a society that is uncomfortable with disability,” said disability rights activist Alice Wong in this story in the NYT. The ADA explained The ADA prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in several areas, including employment, transportation, public accommodations, communications and access to state and local government programs and services. As it relates to employment, Title I of the ADA protects the rights of both employees and job seekers. While the US Department of Labor's (DOL) Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) does not enforce the ADA, it does offer publications and other technical assistance on the basic requirements of the law, including covered employers’ obligation to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified job applicants and employees with disabilities. The ADA applies to all private businesses with 15 or more employees. It also covers government employers, employment agencies, and labour unions. The ADA also had the effect of increasing accessibility and mobility for people with disabilities by mandating automatic doorways, ramps, and elevators to accommodate wheelchairs in public places and businesses. Title I of the law prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals with disabilities during job application procedures, hiring, firing, the pursuit of career advancement, compensation, job training, and other aspects of employment. Title II applies to state and local government entities. This part of the law further extends the protection from discrimination to qualified individuals with disabilities. It requires that these individuals have reasonable access to services, programs, and activities provided by the government. Title III prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities regarding access to activities at public venues. This includes businesses that are generally open to the public, such as restaurants, schools, daycare facilities, movie theatres, recreation facilities, and doctors’ offices. Title IV oversees telephone and television access for individuals with hearing and speech disabilities. Common carriers, such as telephone companies, are required to establish interstate and intrastate telecommunications relay services (TRS) 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Looking forward While the ADA has laid a strong foundation, there is always room for improvement. It's essential to continue the conversation about disability rights and push for further advancements in accessibility and inclusivity. How has the ADA made things better for you or someone with a disability you know? Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

New guidelines aim to end stereotypes and promote accurate portrayals of disabilities in media < Back Disability, Media, News SC issues landmark guidelines for disability representation in films New guidelines aim to end stereotypes and promote accurate portrayals of disabilities in media MMS Staff 8 Jul 2024 4-min read One of the foundational pillars of an affirming attitude towards disability and neurodivergence is good media representation. Until the depiction of disabled and neurodivergent people in our films, TV series and social media is accurate, respectful, and empathetic, not much in society's attitude towards this community can change. Looks like the Supreme Court has taken note. In a landmark ruling on July 8, a Supreme Court bench headed by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud established comprehensive guidelines to prevent stereotyping and discrimination of persons with disabilities (PwDs) in visual media, including films and documentaries. The petition, filed by disability rights activist Nipun Malhotra, was driven by concerns over derogatory and discriminatory remarks towards PwDs in the film ‘Aankh Micholi.' The film included terms like “ atki hui cassettes ” (stuck cassettes) and “ bhulakkad baap ” (forgetful father) to describe individuals with speech and memory disabilities. ‘Aankh Micholi,’ released in 2023 to largely unfavourable reviews , is a film about a family whose various members live with disabilities and health conditions, including deafness, stammering and night blindness. The plot is an ableist ‘comedy of errors’ that rests on using disability and neurodivergence as elements of comic relief. Unfortunately, what a lot of filmmakers fail to realise is not only is the disabled community a low hanging fruit for comedy and all other kinds of slapstick content that shows them in bad light for a cheap laugh, their improper representation gives rise to society's developing misgivings about the community’s actual potential. The Supreme Court rightly emphasised that creators must provide an accurate representation of disabilities rather than mocking or mythifying them. Justice JB Pardiwala, part of the bench, described the judgment as "path-breaking," denouncing the use of stigmatising terms like “cripple” and “spastic.” Historical context and the need for change Indian films, TV serials, ads, and news media have long used disabilities and neurodivergent conditions as a source of comic relief, often at the expense of the dignity of persons with disabilities and neurodivergent conditions. Characters with disabilities have been frequently depicted in a manner that elicits pity or frames them as overtly inspirational, contributing to a skewed and harmful portrayal of disability. This stereotypical representation reinforces negative perceptions and stigmatisation, marginalising an already vulnerable group. The Supreme Court's latest judgement Chief Justice Chandrachud, authoring the judgement, drew attention to the harmful myths perpetuated by visual media about disabilities. The Court noted that depicting persons with disabilities as “super-cripples” implies that they must possess extraordinary abilities, thereby marginalising those who do not fit this stereotype. The bench stated, “Stereotyping is an antithesis to dignity and non-discrimination,” highlighting the judiciary’s evolving role in safeguarding individual rights and addressing complex intersections of disability, gender, and mental health. Modern social model vs the medical model The judgement emphasised a shift from the medical model, which views disability as a personal tragedy, to the modern social model. The social model treats disabilities as a result of societal barriers rather than individual deficits. Chief Justice Chandrachud highlighted that stereotypes and a mockery of disabilities arise from a lack of familiarity and inadequate representation of persons with disabilities in mainstream discourse. Distinguishing humour types and their impact The Court made a critical distinction between “disabling humour” and “disability humour.” Disabling humour demeans persons with disabilities, while disability humour seeks to better understand and explain disability. The context, intention, and overall message of media content should be considered before concluding whether remarks are disparaging. Guidelines for inclusive representation The Supreme Court issued several guidelines for creators of films and visual media content: Language and terminology: Insensitive language is contrary to the dignity of persons with disabilities. Terms like “cripple” and “spastic” should be avoided, as should terms like “afflicted,” “suffering,” and “victim.” These terms contribute to negative self-image and societal marginalisation. Accurate representation: Creators must strive for accurate representation of medical conditions to prevent misinformation and perpetuation of stereotypes. Misleading portrayals can reinforce harmful misconceptions about disabilities. Diverse realities: Visual media should depict the diverse realities of persons with disabilities, showcasing not only their challenges but also their successes, talents, and contributions to society. This holistic portrayal helps to normalise disability and reduce stigma. Stakeholder involvement: The bench emphasised the importance of disabled participation in the creation of media, stating, “‘Nothing about us without us’ principle is based on the promotion of participation of persons with disabilities and equalisation of opportunities. This principle must be practised in constituting statutory committees and inviting expert opinions for assessing the overall message of films and their impact on the dignity of individuals under the Cinematograph Act and Rules.” The Court went on to remind the government of its obligations under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities to incorporate the lived experiences of disabled individuals. In March, the Supreme Court had requested the Central government's response to a plea filed by disability rights activist Nipun Malhotra in the same matter. Malhotra's complaint was that the film and its trailer contained derogatory references to persons with disabilities (PwDs). The issue escalated to the Supreme Court after the Delhi High Court dismissed Malhotra's plea, stating that excessive censorship should be avoided. The Supreme Court's ruling marks a significant step towards dismantling harmful stereotypes and promoting inclusive representation of disabilities in visual media. It now remains to be seen just how many producers, directors, screenwriters and social media creators adhere to these guidelines. If you’re any of the above and unsure where or how to begin, consider engaging with disability advocacy groups that can provide insights about disabled lived experiences. A lot of nonprofits and independent self-advocates conduct training and sensitisation programs, which could potentially give insights into the community’s realities. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Matt Cain's life changed at 50 when he uncovered the cause of years of shame and burnout < Back LGBTQIA+, Neurodiversity, Work I thought being gay made life hard. Turns out autism played a part too Matt Cain's life changed at 50 when he uncovered the cause of years of shame and burnout MMS Staff 13 Jun 2025 4-min read When British writer and broadcaster Matt Cain received an autism and ADHD diagnosis at 50, it felt like the missing piece of a lifelong puzzle finally locked into place. After decades of internal struggle, social confusion, and being misunderstood by peers, bosses, and even himself, Cain could finally name what had always made him feel out of step with the world. For Cain, a working-class gay man growing up in 1980s England, the bullying, shame, and social isolation were relentless. Teachers dismissed him as “overemotional.” Schoolmates mocked his walk, his voice, his love of Madonna. He was called names like “poof” and “pansy”, and subjected to physical violence. Cain assumed these attacks were rooted in homophobia. But with a late autism diagnosis, a more complex truth came into view: what if the world wasn’t only reacting to his queerness, but to his neurodivergence too? At the intersection of queer and neurodivergent Cain’s story is not unique. A growing body of research highlights a strong correlation between queerness and neurodivergence, particularly autism and ADHD. One large-scale study published in Nature Communications (2020) found that autistic people are significantly more likely to identify as LGBTQIA+ than their allistic peers. Another study in Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders showed that autistic people are over eight times more likely to be gender-diverse. But despite these patterns, the world is still alarmingly unprepared to support people who live at the intersection of these identities. Diagnostic criteria, therapy models, school systems, and even Pride events often reflect neurotypical and heteronormative assumptions. Many LGBTQIA+ people report receiving their neurodivergent diagnoses late in life, if at all. The masking that queer people do to “pass” or stay safe can closely resemble the masking that autistic people are forced into to survive neurotypical environments. For those like Cain, the overlap is invisible until it becomes undeniable. Misread and misjudged Cain describes his childhood through a lens familiar to many late-diagnosed neurodivergent adults. He had obsessive interests (Madonna, Star Wars), sensory sensitivities (to sound, touch, and smell), and suffered severe anxiety. He engaged in “stimming” long before he had a word for it, repeating phrases and musicalising dialogue as self-soothing behaviour. But these traits weren’t recognised as part of a neurological profile. Instead, they were chalked up to personality flaws, or worse, weaponised as evidence of his queerness being inherently “too much.” His emotional outbursts were dismissed as “hysterical”, his perfectionism ridiculed as “girly”, and his need for routine ignored in high-pressure media workplaces. In adulthood, Cain coped by drinking, performing queerness in exaggerated ways, and chasing validation. Despite becoming a published author and successful journalist, the cost of masking and constant rejection - from both the publishing industry and his peers - left him burnt out, overwhelmed, and still searching for a language to explain himself. When diagnosis comes too late Cain's autism and ADHD diagnoses came after a family member began their own assessment process. Curious, he researched autism beyond the stereotypes, and saw himself in the nuanced, lived experiences of other autistic adults. He learned about traits like rejection sensitive dysphoria, echolalia, and emotional dysregulation. He saw how alcohol dependency, risky sex, and difficulty with professional boundaries were not just personality quirks, but symptoms of undiagnosed neurodivergence paired with the trauma of growing up queer in a hostile world. His diagnosis brought relief - but also grief. He mourned the years he’d lost to shame, to misunderstanding, to trying to be someone he wasn't. All the times I was criticised for behaviours I didn’t realise were symptomatic of my autism. I feel profound grief for the past. The joy and justice of naming it Cain now actively embraces his neurodivergence. He uses weighted blankets to regulate his nervous system, avoids overwhelming sensory environments, and asks for clear, direct communication at work. He’s also switched agents and stopped attending events that make him mask. Crucially, he no longer tries to hide his joy. He stims freely, sings to himself, speaks about his diagnosis publicly, knowing that being openly autistic will invite both compassion and stigma. But visibility, he insists, matters. Especially now, as conversations around autism risk being co-opted by harmful narratives of “overdiagnosis.” In truth, many queer neurodivergent people - especially women, trans people, and people of colour - go undiagnosed for decades because their traits are ignored, misread, or pathologised through other lenses. What Matt Cain’s story teaches us Cain’s journey shows us the emotional toll of being doubly marginalised. Of growing up in systems where neither his queerness nor his neurodivergence was understood, let alone supported. But it also shows us what becomes possible when people are given the language, tools, and community to understand themselves. In sharing his story, Matt Cain joins a growing movement of neuroqueer individuals reclaiming their narratives. They are pushing for representation that is not just inclusive but affirming. They are challenging the clinical, heteronormative frameworks that fail them. They are telling us: we exist. We’ve always existed. And we’re done being told we’re too much. Source: The Guardian Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Exploring the intersection of gender, sexuality, and neurodivergence where fluidity and individuality thrive < Back Neurodiversity, Gender, LGBTQIA+ Being atypical isn’t a deficit: My Neuroqueer identity Exploring the intersection of gender, sexuality, and neurodivergence where fluidity and individuality thrive Soumya Mishra 28 Jul 2024 5-min read A few years back when I attended a workshop, one of my fellow participants addressed me by “they” pronoun, and I felt incredibly seen at that moment. Up until then, I was internally struggling to accept the non-binary messiness of gender, even though growing up I have had plenty of instances when I felt like a square peg being forced into a round hole situation. When it comes to discourses around gender, sexuality or neurodivergence, we often come across the word “spectrum.” The idea behind “spectrum” is that it encompasses a range of understandings, views and opinions on these subjects. But what if, instead of a range, it was a vast universe where everyone could be whatever they wanted? Each individual is a unique star and can be their most authentic self here. That’s what the neuroqueer space means to me. My relationship with gender, sexuality and neurodivergence is deeply neuroqueer. The neuroqueer space is a radical space where non-conformist notions concerning gender, sexuality and neurodivergence are celebrated, which is in contrast to a world where cis-heteronormativity and neuronormativity are enforced. Being neurodivergent means seeing and interacting with the world in atypical ways. And since neurodivergence affects how I see and interact with the world, it has also shaped my understanding of gender and sexuality. Usually, gender identity is constructed from a neurotypical lens, completely disregarding neurodivergent perspectives. However, neurodivergent folx experience a queering of the mind. So neatly defined identity labels based on neurotypical standards such as “boy,” “girl,” “man” and “woman” mean differently to many of us. Even as an adult, there are parts of me that are more childlike than others around me. This entails how I experience and express my feelings, my innate curiosity or whimsical behaviour. And this has invited comments and infantilisation from those around me. For instance, I’m often told I seem much younger than my age because my behaviour doesn’t coincide with what is considered age-appropriate. So from my neuroqueer perspective, even the construction of cis-gender identity is complex, and sometimes, it is closer to the idea of queerness as it defies what is perceived as “normal.” Now, while I started using “she/ they” pronouns initially to be more inclusive and break the gender binary, overtime it has become more than that. “They” can be both singular and plural; it’s fluid. I’m an individual whose identity has been shaped by numerous experiences, which can be truly understood by understanding the context. To me, “she/ they” makes room for all that and more. So even though I’ve been socialised as a “woman,” there are moments when I feel the term does not encapsulate all my feelings. As neuroqueerness celebrates fluidity, it has given me the space to explore the idea of gender away from neurotypicality. In addition, by virtue of my asexuality, I experience little to no sexual attraction. But I’m romantically attracted towards two or more genders, which is atypical in this allonormative society that reinforces compulsory sexuality and heteronormativity. My asexuality requires no “fixing.” Like my neurodivergence, my asexuality, too, subverts the normative culture, but both of them are described in terms of “lacks.” While asexuality is commonly described as an absence of sexual attraction, neurodivergence is defined as having social impairments. But, being atypical isn’t a deficit. Feminist theorist Bell Hooks wrote: “‘Queer’ not as being about who you’re having sex with (that can be a dimension of it); but ‘queer’ as being about the self that is at odds with everything around it and that has to invent and create and find a place to speak and to thrive and to live.” Building on her argument around queerness, when queer theory and the neurodiversity paradigm inform one another, there is a further queering of the body and the mind. In this resulting transformative space, which is the neuroqueer space, normative understanding of gender, sexuality and neurodivergence can be challenged. My neuroqueer bodymind isn’t fixed or singular, nor does it exist in a vacuum. It has been shaped by numerous experiences and can only be understood by situating my experiences contextually. In their book Authoring Autism, M Remi Yergeau eloquently argues, “Neuroqueering signifies a generous and inter-bodily gesturing, one that postures beyond brains, bones, and dermis; one that waves in a plurality of identities, orientations, affective stances, and lived experiences, modes ranging from autism to deafness to trauma to asexuality.” Simply put, to me, neuroqueering is resisting neatly defined categories and creating a space where even the messier parts of myself can thrive without giving in to binaries. Neuroqueerness problematises neat identity labels, making room for fluidity and plurality of identities, orientations and lived experiences by disrupting cis-heteronormativity and neuronormativity as well as defying societal expectations around what is considered “normal” and “abnormal.” My lived experiences and the journey I’ve undertaken to reach here are complex and difficult to disentangle from one another. “Neuroqueer” is all-encompassing without restrictive labels and diagnoses. It’s a space where I can make sense of my neuroqueer bodymind, connect with folx who’ve similar lived realities, and be a part of a community to experience a sense of belongingness. Glossary: Neuroqueer - It is both an identity and a verb. An individual who diverges from dominant societal norms, considers them to be neurologically queer, rejecting normative ideas around gender, sexuality and neurocognitive functioning. Neuronormativity - Upholding a set of rules, values and ideas around neuro-cognitive functioning which suggest that certain types of behaviour are normal, while others are not. Cis-heteronormativity - The idea that being cis-gender and heterosexual is the norm and such people are superior in society. Neurotypicality - The state of not being associated with neurodivergent behaviours. Asexuality - A type of sexual orientation wherein people experience little to no sexual attraction towards others, but may or may not engage in sexual activity. Allonormative - The idea that all human beings experience sexual and romantic attraction, and that’s the norm. Soumya Mishra (she/ they) is a neuroqueer development sector professional with over 6 years of work experience, who is primarily interested in leveraging digital mediums to amplify marginalised voices, bridge existing gaps, promote inclusivity and accessibility. Their work and approaches are informed by their lived experiences. Building a community and fostering a sense of belongingness have been crucial in Soumya's work approach. As a personal project, they're also building a podcast — Atypical Dikkatein — to chronicle the stories of queer-disabled folx in India as these stories are often relegated to the margins. Follow Soumya on LinkedIn Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

From begging to coaching: Shabana’s role in shaping her daughter’s kickboxing dream < Back LGBTQIA+, Parenting, News Trans mom raises adopted daughter to be gold-winning kickboxer From begging to coaching: Shabana’s role in shaping her daughter’s kickboxing dream MMS Staff 6 Oct 2024 2-min read Meet Shabana, a 65-year-old transgender woman from Mysuru, India who went from begging on the streets to raising her adopted daughter, Bibi Fathima, into a gold-medal-winning kickboxer. Here’s the real story behind how they made it happen. Years ago, Shabana faced a lot of challenges. Surviving on the streets of Mysuru, her life was tough. Then, when her cousin abandoned four daughters, Shabana made a decision that would change everything — she adopted them, despite having almost nothing herself. One of those girls was Bibi Fathima, who had an unusual passion: kickboxing. At just 12, Fathima was determined to pursue her passion, even breaking open her piggy bank to enroll at a local kickboxing academy. Shabana, despite her limited means, supported her every step of the way. What started as a dream turned into a serious pursuit. Training hard every day, Fathima’s talent quickly caught the eye of her coaches. And it wasn’t long before the medals started rolling in. She’s now racked up 23 medals in various district, state, and national competitions. Her latest win is a gold medal at the 16th Karnataka State Kickboxing Championship. Fathima isn’t stopping at state competitions. She’s gearing up for even bigger tournaments in 2025, with plans to take on the national and international kickboxing scene. Shabana, always by her side, is ready to support her through whatever comes next. Fathima’s goals are clear; she’s already dreaming of one day becoming a coach herself. This mother-daughter duo is already making waves, and they’re not slowing down anytime soon. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS