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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

What to say (and what not to say) when your friend discovers they’re neurodivergent < Back Neurodiversity 4 ways to validate someone coming out to you about their neurodivergence What to say (and what not to say) when your friend discovers they’re neurodivergent MMS Staff 2 Aug 2024 3-min read Autism and ADHD diagnoses rates around the world have risen considerably over the past few years. More and more people are finding out they’re neurodivergent. Which means it’s not entirely unlikely you may come across someone you know - maybe a friend, colleague or acquaintance - who has either recently been diagnosed (or discovered), or will at some point in the future. If you know someone who’s just been diagnosed (or discovered), read on below. And if not yet, read on still, because this is good information to have. First up, you definitely want to avoid saying things like, “Oh., everyone’s neurodivergent now,” or “It’s become a trend,” or “You can’t be autistic because of XYZ reason,” or - our absolute favourite (read: NOT), “But you don’t look autistic!” These just don’t help, even if you say it jokingly, because, for a lot of people, their neurodivergence discovery is already a bit overwhelming to begin with. You kind of don’t know what to make of it, and hearing things such as these aren’t going to help. Plus impostor syndrome is BIG in the neurodivergent world (if you don’t know about it, read up on it here ). Instead, try the following: If they seem unsure about it: “This doesn't change anything about the person you are, only about what you thought you knew about yourself all along. At least now you know...” Always helps to be affirming, and let them know that nothing changes. Sure they now have the added hyper-awareness about their triggers and glimmers, and some changes they might need to make in their day-to-day lifestyle. But the people who care for them will stick around no matter what. If you’ve always thought they might be autistic: “ I’ve kind of suspected that for a while. Thanks for letting me know. ” While it’s generally not a good idea to tell an undiscovered/ undiagnosed person they might be neurodivergent if they haven’t brought it up with you first, depending on the circumstances it might be okay to let them know you’ve wondered whether they were neurodivergent due to a past incident. Soon after a realisation/ diagnosis, neurodivergent people might tend to think back on past experiences and wonder if they went the way they did because of their different wiring. Bringing up past incidents might help them have realisations that help prepare them for the future. If you don’t have the slightest idea what being neurodivergent or getting a diagnosis means, try going with: “I’m sorry I don’t know much about that. Could you tell me more about it?” Sure, a lot of us might have heard about or even come across terms such as ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia, etc in passing on the Internet. Trouble is, the Internet is replete with misinformation on these conditions. It’s best to read accounts of neurodivergent people while trying to learn more about neurodiversity. And if you’re still unsure, the classic: “I’m sorry, could you tell me more...” approach always works. And if they’re happy about it: “Congratulations! This must feel so freeing. If you want to talk about it, I’m here.” Depending on the circumstances, a person’s discovery can be very liberating. It’s like finding all the answers to a bunch of very difficult questions. While it’s generally a good idea to congratulate them and share in their happiness, it’s also important to realise that you need to give them space to make sense of it. A good way to do that is by letting them know that if they want to talk to you about it, you’re around. Remember that this can be a confusing and challenging time for many who neurodivergents, especially those who have had experiences with bullying, exclusion, social isolation, and infantilisation. The time it takes to come to terms with accepting your neurodivergence may differ with every person, but it’s important to know that having someone around who understands is always helpful. So be there for your loved one, let them know that you care, and, if they’re keen on it, help them connect with other neurodivergent folx. There’s quite nothing like community :) Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Film stands out with genuine Autism representation and a star-studded cast < Back Neurodiversity, Media Autistic actor stars in ‘Ezra’ with Robert De Niro Film stands out with genuine Autism representation and a star-studded cast MMS Staff 26 May 2024 3-min read In an industry often criticized for its lack of authentic representation, the upcoming film "Ezra" emerges as a beacon of hope and progress. This drama, starring William A. Fitzgerald, a talented autistic teenager, alongside cinematic giants like Robert De Niro, marks a pivotal moment in Hollywood's approach to neurodivergent casting. "Ezra" is a deeply personal project, scripted by Tony Spiridakis, who draws from his own journey as a father embracing his son’s autism. The narrative centers on a father-son duo embarking on a cross-country adventure, aiming to bridge the emotional gap between them. The authenticity of the storyline is magnified by the casting of Fitzgerald, ensuring that the portrayal of Ezra is not only credible but also deeply resonant. The power of authentic casting The importance of casting autistic actors in autistic roles cannot be overstated. Historically, characters with autism have often been played by neurotypical actors, leading to portrayals that may lack depth and authenticity. These performances, though sometimes well-intentioned, can perpetuate stereotypes and miss the nuanced realities of living with autism. In "Ezra," the decision to cast Fitzgerald is a triumph for authentic representation. As Alex Plank, an associate producer who is autistic himself, emphasized, the team was committed to finding an autistic actor for the role of Ezra. This move not only lends credibility to the film but also provides an opportunity for audiences to see a genuine depiction of autistic people on screen. Fitzgerald’s ability to bring his personal experiences into his role, even ad-libbing lines, enriches the character of Ezra, making him a true and relatable figure. Tony Goldwyn's vision Directed by Tony Goldwyn, best known for his acting roles in "Ghost" and "Scandal," "Ezra" has already made waves at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). Goldwyn, who has also built an impressive résumé as a director, described the project as a personal passion. He and Spiridakis have been friends for over 40 years, and this film stands as a testament to their enduring friendship and shared commitment to authentic storytelling. Goldwyn praised Bobby Cannavale's performance as Max, the single father and stand-up comedian. Cannavale brings an electric volatility and deep emotional resonance to the role, capturing the fierce protectiveness and love Max has for his son. The film also stars Rose Byrne as Ezra’s mother, with Goldwyn himself playing her new boyfriend, and features Robert De Niro, Whoopi Goldberg, Rainn Wilson, and Vera Farmiga in supporting roles. Inclusivity behind the scenes The commitment to authenticity in "Ezra" extends beyond its casting choices. The film’s production involved individuals with personal or familial ties to neurodivergence, creating an environment where diverse perspectives were not just included but integral. This collaborative approach ensured that the narrative stayed true to the experiences of those within the autism community. Moreover, the film’s end credits were crafted by Exceptional Minds, a digital arts program dedicated to adults with autism. This decision highlights the filmmakers’ dedication to inclusivity, offering tangible support to neurodiverse artists and showcasing their talents to a broader audience. A step forward for Hollywood "Ezra" represents a significant step forward for Hollywood. By prioritizing authentic representation, the film challenges the industry to rethink its approach to casting and storytelling. It sets a powerful precedent that can inspire future projects to seek genuine representation, ensuring that diverse voices are heard and seen. The release of "Ezra" on May 31 is more than just a cinematic event; it is a cultural milestone. This film underscores the importance of giving autistic actors the opportunity to tell their own stories, fostering greater understanding and acceptance within society. Tony Goldwyn believes that with the right support, "Ezra" has the potential to reach a wide audience, much like the acclaimed film "CODA." Conclusion As audiences prepare to watch "Ezra," it is crucial to recognize the broader implications of this film. Authentic representation matters. It shapes perceptions, breaks down stereotypes, and allows for a richer, more inclusive world of storytelling. By casting William A. Fitzgerald and involving the autism community at every stage of production, "Ezra" offers a powerful testament to the transformative potential of genuine representation in the arts. Hollywood, take note: this is how you do it right. What do you think about autistic representation in Hollywood? Tell us in the comments. Let’s do some Much Much. 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

Newly opened Sagar Express will empower neurodivergent individuals through meaningful employment < Back News, Neurodiversity, Work Delhi High Court welcomes neurodivergent run cafe Newly opened Sagar Express will empower neurodivergent individuals through meaningful employment MMS Staff 7 Jul 2024 2-min read Starting next week, the Delhi High Court will see the opening of Sagar Express, a cafe run entirely by neurodivergent individuals. Aimed at creating meaningful employment opportunities centred around a strengths-based approach to neurodivergence, the cafe is set to break down societal barriers and stigma that persist in society about the capabilities of neurodivergent individuals. The initiative is spearheaded by Senior Advocate Ravi Gupta, chairman of the Shaurya Foundation Trust (SFT), who has a deeply personal connection to the cause. “The main motive of opening this cafe is to empower such persons financially,” Gupta shared in this Indian Express article, emphasising the importance of financial independence for neurodivergent individuals. Upon its opening, Sagar Express will be staffed by six neurodivergent individuals including those who are autistic. From managing the counter and handling sales to serving South Indian cuisine, these employees will be at the heart of the cafe's operations. The cafe, a collaborative effort with the well-known restaurant chain Sagar Ratna, is the culmination of two years of intensive staff training. “The majority of persons that will run the cafe will be those with neurodiversity… they’ll be given managerial positions,” Gupta said. The decision to have neurodivergent individuals in leadership roles ensures that the staff not only gain employment but also take on significant responsibilities in the organisation, showcasing their skills and competencies in a real-world setting. It goes to show that neurodivergent individuals are competent leaders. Gupta's journey into supporting neurodivergent adults began in 2002 when he and his wife Rani adopted a boy named Shaurya. Diagnosed autistic before his second birthday, Shaurya became the inspiration for the couple's dedication to this cause. Since 2011, SFT has been actively working to support and train neurodivergent adults. The opening of Sagar Express is another decisive step towards inclusive employment. Not only will it demonstrate that neurodivergent individuals can excel in diverse roles, it'll also serve as a model for other organisations to follow. Some other restaurants & cafes run by disabled and neurodivergent people in India include: Cafe Arpan by Yash Charitable Trust Soho House Mumbai The Chocolate Room Mitti Cafe Aditi's Corner KFC India Mirchi & Mime Madeira & Mime Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Paramjeet Bisht of Uttarakhand practised his race walking only past 9 pm to avoid judgemental onlookers < Back News Youth ridiculed for ‘funny walking style’ represents India at Paris '24 Paramjeet Bisht of Uttarakhand practised his race walking only past 9 pm to avoid judgemental onlookers MMS Staff 3 Aug 2024 1-min read A 23-year-old resident of Uttarakhand - teased by the residents of his village for his ‘funny’ gait - represented India yesterday in the men’s final of the 20-kilometre walk at Paris Olympics 2024. On Thursday, Paramjeet Singh Bisht reportedly finished 37th in the 20 km men’s final where he took part alongside two other Indians - Vikash Singh and Akshdeep Singh. A native of Khalla village in Chamoli district Uttarakhand, Bisht used the roads of his village to practise for the event when they were secluded past 9 pm every day. He wanted to avoid the gaze of the other villagers, who ridiculed him for his ‘funny walking style,’ Bisht has said . “They would often laugh at me... as they were not aware it’s a globally recognised sport.” While Bisht clocked 1 hour, 23 minutes and 48 seconds in the finals, Singh crossed the finish line in 1 hour, 22 minutes and 36 seconds, and Akshdeep pulled out of the race around the 6-kilometre mark. Bisht presently holds the national record for the under-17 and under-19 men’s 5-kilometre walk events. In 2022, he joined the Indian Navy as a senior secondary recruit. “It was a great journey for me,” Bisht simply wrote on his Instagram after the race. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

A series featuring people with different backgrounds discuss important topics through personal experiences and expert opinions. < Back Series Unheard Stories A series featuring people with different backgrounds discuss important topics through personal experiences and expert opinions. To celebrate International Women's Day ‘23 we featured 11 incredible women who shared their honest and unfiltered experiences of ableism, gender bias, microaggressions, and exclusion. From autism and ADHD to disability and caregiving, these women give voice to the discrimination and challenges that women with disabilities encounter every day. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back ORIGINALS

Reflecting on the disability advocate's legacy on his birth anniversary < Back Disability, Neurodiversity Remembering Javed Abidi: A pioneer of disability rights in the global South Reflecting on the disability advocate's legacy on his birth anniversary MMS Staff 11 Jun 2024 3-min read Javed Abidi, India’s towering figure in the disability rights movement, passed away in March, 2018 due to a chest infection, at the age of 53. The legacy he leaves behind is monumental, having spearheaded transformative changes that reshaped how disability is perceived and addressed in India and beyond. We remember him on his birth anniversary, reflecting on his journey, battles, and the mark he left on the world. Born this day in 1965 in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, Abidi's life was marked by personal challenges from an early age due to spina bifida, a condition that went untreated for years, leading to severe complications. Despite this, Abidi's resolve only grew stronger. After moving to the United States for treatment and education, he graduated from Wright State University well-equipped with both personal experience and academic insight into the world of disabilities. Returning to India in 1989 with a determination to make a difference, Abidi ventured into journalism. His path soon took a pivotal turn towards activism, driven by the dire state of disability rights in India. In 1993, he began his official journey into advocacy, laying the foundations for what would become a nationwide movement for disability rights. Abidi founded the Disability Rights Group (DRG) in 1994, which quickly became a cornerstone for advocacy in the disability space. His efforts were instrumental in the enactment of India’s Disability Act of 1995, a groundbreaking law that laid the groundwork for future advancements in disability rights in India. Abidi's advocacy did not stop there; he pushed for the inclusion of diverse disabilities in the new Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act 2016, significantly expanding the scope of disability rights and protections. In 2013, Javed Abidi was appointed vice-chair of the International Disability Alliance, further amplifying his global influence in advocating for disability rights. Earlier in his career, at politician Sonia Gandhi's invitation, he had established the disability unit at the Rajiv Gandhi Foundation, broadening the impact of his work within India. His proactive approach was also evident in 2004, when a letter he wrote to the Chief Justice of India addressing the need for accessible polling booths for persons with disabilities was transformed into a writ petition. This led the Supreme Court to issue directives ensuring the voting process was made accessible, marking another significant victory in his long list of advocacy achievements. Abidi's strategy was clear and pragmatic. He believed in fighting for rights under the democratic framework of India's constitution, advocating for policies and laws that would ensure education, employment, and accessibility for persons with disabilities. His leadership at the National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People (NCPEDP) was marked by major campaigns that led to significant policy changes, including India's ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2007. Abidi was a strategist who knew that real change required pressing the government and private sectors to adopt inclusive policies. His work transcended partisan politics, working with governments of different ideologies to forward the disability rights agenda. Javed Abidi's contributions were not just legislative and policy-driven. He embodied the spirit of "Nothing About Us Without Us," giving a voice to an often overlooked minority and fostering a sense of pride and self-determination among people with disabilities. He believed in the power of collective action and information dissemination, often leveraging his position in New Delhi to mobilise support and advocate for change across various platforms. As we mark his birth anniversary, we remember Javed Abidi not just for what he achieved but for the profound influence he had on the lives of millions. We reflect not just on the laws and policies he helped shape but on his underlying belief in dignity, equality, and the potential of every individual. His vision was one of an inclusive society where disability was not an obstacle but a part of human diversity. His approach guides many disability advocates in their journeys today and reminds us that real change requires resilience, collective action, a visionary approach, and an unwavering commitment to the rights of all individuals. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

The Paris Summer Olympics plans to reduce CO2 emissions by about 50 percent. But is that possible? < Back Climate, News Will Paris Olympics 2024 be most eco friendly ever The Paris Summer Olympics plans to reduce CO2 emissions by about 50 percent. But is that possible? MMS Staff 12 Jul 2024 3-min read In about a fortnight, athletes, authorities, staff, and huge congregations of sports enthusiasts from around the world will throng to Paris for the Summer Olympics. In this year’s games, over 10,000 athletes will participate across 800+ events, with 45,000 volunteers and 13 million meals served. Alongside being one of the biggest sporting spectacles ever, Paris 2024 also aims to be the greenest and most eco-friendly edition of the Olympics in history. If you’re wondering how it’s possible to make an event of such a big scale easy on the environment, that’s a 100 percent valid question. It’s enormously difficult. After all, we’re looking at a ton of travel, huge amounts of food & drink, and kilowatts upon kilowatts of energy consumption. But the organisers have a plan, it seems. According to this story on the World Economic Forum website, Paris has pledged to reduce the event’s carbon footprint by close to 50 percent. In exact figures, that comes up to about 1.75 million tonnes of carbon dioxide versus the 3.75 million tonnes that some of the previous editions averaged out to. Additionally, 95 percent of the events will be hosted in existing buildings and venues, which means Paris 2024 also plans to be cutting down on creating new venues from the ground up, something that’s very common for events such as the Olympics. 95 percent of the events will take place in existing venues at the Paris Olympics 2024 Paris 2024’s Athletes' Village will be powered by renewable energy and the athletes will use mattresses made from recycled fishing nets. As part of their offsetting initiatives, Paris 2024 will also invest in environmental and social projects around the world, and, within the city, plant around 2,00,000 trees. The city also plans to add 1,000 km of new lanes for cycling, making it easier for people to get around, cutting CO2 transport emissions. And finally, the games plan to move towards more plant-based meals and cut down on single-use plastics. Picture credit: Paris 2024 While this is all definitely a move in the right direction, sceptics aren’t entirely convinced that these changes will prove effective enough to have the desired impact. In this article, Seth Warren Rose of the Eneref Institute, an advocacy and research group focused on sustainable development, says that close to 50 percent is not enough, and that Paris 2024 must bring it down actually to 50 percent. “Maybe things like the Olympics have to be reconsidered… Having millions of people congregate in a single area is a very intensive thing,” he said. Picture credit: International Olympic Committee Whether or not Paris 2024 manages to hit the 50 percent carbon emission reduction mark is something that remains to be seen, but it’s important - and now more than ever - to be having these conversations, especially around mega events the size of the Olympics. The Global Risks Report 2024 says that vegetarian diets and other low-carbon life choices, including adapting transportation means that are low on CO2 emissions and reducing the consumption of single-use plastic, can, on a large scale, make a significant difference. But how much of a change can individual efforts really bring about when companies - including those sponsoring these kinds of events - aren’t entirely dedicating themselves to incorporating the same eco-friendly practices in their operations? At least organisers are quick to admit not everything is perfect. “We say that sustainability is a collective sport,” Georgina Grenon, director of environmental excellence for the Paris Games said to AP . “Will everything be perfect? No, right? We cannot say that. We’re still working very, very hard to go as far as we can.” Picture credit: Global Risks Report 2024 Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

A simple guide to understanding nonbinary identities this Nonbinary Awareness Week < Back Gender, LGBTQIA+ What does it mean to be nonbinary A simple guide to understanding nonbinary identities this Nonbinary Awareness Week MMS Staff 9 Jul 2024 3-min read The term “nonbinary” is used to describe those whose gender identity exists outside of the traditional gender binary of male and female. This concept can encompass a spectrum of gender identities, including gender-fluid, bigender, and multigender, among others. While the specific meaning of nonbinary can vary from person to person, it fundamentally signifies an identity that does not fit exclusively within the categories of man or woman. The gender binary To grasp what it means to be nonbinary, it's essential to first understand the gender binary. The gender binary is the classification of gender into two distinct, opposite forms — man and woman. This system often dictates societal expectations regarding behaviour, roles, and appearance based on one's assigned gender at birth. However, the binary view excludes the experiences of those who identify outside these two categories. Understanding nonbinary identities Nonbinary individuals may experience their gender in a multitude of ways. Some might feel a blend of both man and woman, while others may identify as neither. The term itself serves as an umbrella, covering various identities that don't conform to the binary framework. Despite its growing recognition in contemporary society, nonbinary identities have been acknowledged and respected in numerous cultures for centuries. Nonbinary pronouns Pronouns play a crucial role in affirming a nonbinary person’s identity. In a world where gendered language is prevalent, nonbinary individuals often navigate pronouns that best reflect their gender. Some nonbinary people use binary pronouns like “she/ her” or “he/ him,” while others prefer gender-neutral pronouns such as “they/ them,” “ze/ hir,” or “ze/ zir.” The pronouns someone uses can vary based on their environment and feelings of safety. Gentle reminder: It's important to always use the pronouns a person indicates are appropriate for them. If unsure, opt for gender-neutral language or politely ask for their preferred pronouns. Defining nonbinary Most people, including many transgender individuals, identify as either male or female. However, nonbinary people do not neatly fit into these categories. They might blend elements of both genders, identify with neither, or experience a fluid or evolving gender identity. Terms like genderqueer, agender, bigender, and genderfluid reflect the diverse experiences within the nonbinary community. How to identify if you are nonbinary Figuring out if you are nonbinary is a personal journey that involves self-reflection and exploration. Here are some steps that might help: Think about how you feel about your gender. Do you feel like you don’t fully identify as a man or a woman? Educate yourself about different nonbinary identities and see if any resonate with your experiences. Engaging with nonbinary individuals can provide insight and help you understand your own feelings. Try using different pronouns or labels to see which ones feel most comfortable for you. Consider speaking with a therapist or joining a support group where you can discuss your feelings in a safe and understanding environment. Remember, your gender identity is unique to you, and it’s okay if it takes time to understand and articulate it. How to be respectful and supportive of nonbinary people: Always use the name and pronouns a nonbinary person requests. Avoid asking about their previous names or pronouns. You can't determine someone's gender identity based on appearance. If unsure about pronouns, ask respectfully. Support policies that allow nonbinary people to express their gender freely and safely in public spaces, workplaces, and schools. Recognize the challenges nonbinary individuals face in gendered spaces like restrooms and support their choice of where they feel safest. Engage with nonbinary people to understand their experiences and perspectives. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS