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Poll says viewers think filmmakers can do more to authentically depict mental illness & disabilities < Back Disability, Media, News Study shows 60 percent audience unhappy with disability representation Poll says viewers think filmmakers can do more to authentically depict mental illness & disabilities MMS Staff 17 Jul 2024 2-min read The verdict is in on Hollywood’s representation of people with disability and mental illness, and the numbers have spoken. According to a new study by the non-profit Inevitable Foundation, cheekily titled ‘Audiences Are Waiting for Hollywood to Greenlight Disability,’ 60 percent of the audience is “unsatisfied with how disability and mental health are currently represented on big screens and small screens alike.” The foundation works with disabled writers and filmmakers to destigmatise disability and mental health, and increase (and level up) the representation of this community. The poll saw 1,000 participants, of which half lived with disabilities and half did not. The study noted that 15 percent of the global population lives with some form of disability or neurodivergence, and when it comes to TV viewing, this population is watching more content than non-disabled or neurotypical audiences. Even so, the polled audience feels the representation is inadequate and improper. “As it stands, the entertainment industry’s drastic underinvestment in authentic disabled storytelling is abandoning an important and growing untapped market and eroding the trust of disabled and non-disabled audiences alike,” the report reads. The poll also shows that 43 percent of the audience comprising both disabled and non-disabled folx ‘frequently discuss or share’ content that has authentic representation of people with disabilities or neurodivergence. And 40 percent are likely to recommend a film or show to friends or family members if it has authentic representation. Recently, the Indian Supreme Court released a set of guidelines for authentic representation of disabled characters, following a Public Interest Litigation filed against the makers of the film ‘Aankh Micholi,’ which had ableist representation. Some other numbers the poll highlights: 25 percent of global households have at least 1 disabled person. 35 percent of disabled people watch 20+ hours of TV per week, compared to 25 percent non-disabled people. 63 percent of disabled people watch more than 10 hours of TV per week, compared to 55 percent of non-disabled people. 31 percent of audiences feel there are no streaming services committed to authentic disability or mental health representation. 25 percent of audiences consider more than 90 percent of the depictions of disability seen in the past year to be inauthentic. 50 percent of Gen Z will research a company to make sure it aligns with their values. Some recent films and shows that have good representation include: Bridgerton Geek Girl All The Light We Cannot See: Check out the full report here . Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

The actor reflects on overcoming health challenges just before becoming a father < Back Health, Media Mark Ruffalo reveals terrifying dream that turned out to be true The actor reflects on overcoming health challenges just before becoming a father MMS Staff 30 Sept 2024 2-min read Mark Ruffalo is no stranger to overcoming challenges, both on and off screen. Known for his powerful performances and kind, grounded personality, his fans admire him as an actor and father. But few know Ruffalo’s life took a terrifying turn more than 20 years ago when he faced an unexpected battle with his health — one that started with a dream. During a recent conversation on the Smartless podcast, Ruffalo shared a story about a dream he had had. Just before his wife Sunrise Coigney was about to give birth to their first child, he dreamt that he had a brain tumour. Ruffalo shares that in the dream, there were no images, no voices — just an overwhelming sense of clarity. Incidentally, at the time Ruffalo had an ear infection. But this dream wasn’t something he could shake off. He says his intuition told him to get checked, just in case. Incidentally, a scan revealed that the dream wasn’t just a dream — it was a warning. Ruffalo had a tumour the size of a golf ball behind his left ear. With their son Keen on the way, Ruffalo pondered whether to tell his wife about the tumour or keep quiet about it until after the birth. Ruffalo chose the latter. “She had the birth plan, she did the yoga, she had the doula, we had a hot tub ordered,” he said, reflecting on his wife’s preparations. “This is like her wedding… and I was just like, ‘I can’t.’’ A week after Keen’s birth, Ruffalo finally told his wife about the tumour. Her initial reaction was disbelief — she thought he was joking. But the gravity of the situation soon hit, and she broke down. Thankfully, the tumour was benign, but the road ahead wasn’t without its fair share of risks. Ruffalo faced a 20 percent chance of facial paralysis and a 70 percent chance of losing his hearing in the left ear. Post surgery, Ruffalo woke up permanently deaf in his left ear. His face, initially paralyzed, slowly regained movement over the course of a year. More importantly, he was alive, able to be there for his family. Stories like this remind us that even our heroes face struggles behind the scenes. Today, Ruffalo continues to give his fans more and more reason to adore him not just as a brilliant actor but as a person who faced his most difficult moments with grace and courage. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

How global communities thrive together - the benefits of play, obstacles, and its future < Back Parenting, Education, Health Why play is important: International Day of Play 2024 How global communities thrive together - the benefits of play, obstacles, and its future MMS Staff 11 Jun 2024 7-min read India has a popular saying: ‘ Padhoge likhoge banoge nawab, kheloge kudoge banoge kharab.' Roughly translated, it means: “Study and you’ll become a respectable person. Play and you'll fail in life." Which - tbh - couldn't be further from the truth. The first-ever International Day of Play is going to be observed on 11 June 2024, marking a significant milestone in efforts to preserve, promote, and prioritise play so that all people, especially children, can reap its lifelong rewards. Play transcends language, culture, and age. It acts as a catalyst for development and well-being. It is also an essential part of a child’s development, and is particularly important in early childhood when children are growing and learning most rapidly. According to this UNICEF report , playing with children is a fundamental aspect of parenting. Simple, playful interactions with adults help infants develop sturdy brain architecture, the foundations of lifelong health, and the building blocks of resilience. “We are still not good enough at accommodating or acknowledging the child that thinks creatively. But, we are super good at rewarding the academically strong child,” a parent in Denmark told LEGO . The importance of play Beyond physical well-being, outdoor play stimulates cognitive, social and emotional growth. Being in nature helps children explore, experiment and develop problem-solving skills. The sensory experiences of the natural world enhance creativity and imagination, fostering a sense of wonder and curiosity and contributing to overall development and well-being. Long term studies have shown that access to early play experiences boosts life outcomes substantially - a 42% raise in yearly earnings, 44% increase in high school graduations, and 17% increase in bachelor degrees, as per the The Case for Play report by the Playground Ideas. Play across different cultures Cultural traditions shape unique play experiences worldwide. For instance, Mancala, a game played in Africa, involves counting and strategy, teaching kids mathematical and critical thinking skills. Children in Italy, on the other hand, play Strega Comanda Color, which enhances language and social interaction skills. The need for inclusive play Research confirms that for children with disabilities too, play is an important way in which they make friends (Jeanes and Maggie, 2012). For many of these children in India, their home - or schools - are the only environments for play. However, accessibility is a concern. There are very few parks and playgrounds where children with disabilities can be found playing. Most schools and community play spaces (parks and public playgrounds) are often designed from the perspective of those without disabilities. Inaccessible structures, lack of trained staff to oversee the play, absence of allocation of free play time for children, resistance from children themselves, and substitution of therapy sessions in place of play are some of the common challenges in special schools that render almost no access to play spaces for children with disability, as per Play for All by Azim Premji University . The impact of play deficit on children’s health A comprehensive survey covering 85 cities across India, and covering 1.15 lakh children, revealed that 40% children do not maintain a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI). The situation is more dire in India's major metros — New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Pune — where children's health indicators are poorer compared to those from smaller towns and rural areas. The lack of physical play areas is directly impacting children's physical health. Anxiety and depression among school-aged children and teens in the United States are at an all-time high. In 2021, child and adolescent mental health was declared a national emergency. Although a variety of causes are thought to contribute to this decline in mental health, a new study in Science Daily by three prominent researchers specialising in child development points to a decline over decades in opportunities for children and teens to play, roam and engage in activities independent of direct oversight and control by adults. Impact of technology on play In the US, although 71% of parents played outside as a child, only 21% of their children play outside today. Technology is everywhere, and kids spend a lot of time on their cellphones, tablets and other electronic devices, as per Play World . Nearly 40% of India's schools have no playground. An Indian study says that over the past few decades, there has been a significant decline in children’s outdoor play. Several factors have contributed to this shift including the rise of technology, increased academic pressure, safety concerns and COVID-19. The allure of digital entertainment has drawn children indoors and to screens. Additionally, schools have increased academic demands, leaving children with limited free time for unstructured outdoor play. “Technology today allows children to still be creative and scientifically knowledgeable but learn in a fun way,” says a UK parent, to LEGO . Learning through play 83% of children say they learn better when it feels like play. 93% of parents think play should be used as a tool for child development and learning in schools. As per the Lego Play Well Report of 2018 , play is its own reward. We do it because it feels good. The urge to play is nature’s way of helping us make sense of the world and our place in it. Through play we learn how our minds and bodies work and discover how others think and feel. Through play we come to know what it means to belong, to be loved and feel happiness. Building a community through play Community play projects in India often focus on revitalising underused or neglected urban areas, turning them into safe and accessible play spaces. These projects are particularly vital in densely populated cities where children's play areas are scarce. Some notable initiatives working towards enhancing play opportunities: Bachpan Manao, Badhte Jao : Spearheaded by the EkStep Foundation , this initiative focuses on maximising the early childhood period (0 - 8 years) across India. For International Day of Play, they launched the #HourOfFreePlay challenge in collaboration with UNICEF, advocating for every child's right to play. While play should be part of children's lives every day, the call to action on June 11th is to include adults by encouraging them to pause whatever they’re doing from 5 pm to 6 pm and engage in an Hour of Free play (meaning activities led by children). Anthill Creations: Based in Bengaluru, this non-profit organisation builds safe, sustainable, and inclusive playgrounds using upcycled materials like tyres and oil drums. To date, Anthill Creations has constructed about 380 playgrounds across 22 states, demonstrating a scalable model of low-cost, high-impact community engagement. Kilikili: Another commendable effort is by Kilikili , an NGO based in Bengaluru, which aims at developing inclusive public play spaces in Bengaluru that would enable children with disabilities to secure their right to play alongside children without disabilities. Kilikili brings together multiple stakeholders – the local municipal corporation and parents, volunteers, disability rights organisations, citizen’s groups, resident’s associations, special and regular schools. Jabalpur’s child-focused urban planning: The city of Jabalpur is pioneering a new approach in urban planning with a focus on children’s needs. The city's officials are working on a play “master plan" that aims to ensure that every child has access to play opportunities within 500 metres of their home. This initiative is part of the broader “Nurturing Neighbourhoods Challenge” under the Smart Cities Mission, which aims to create child-friendly neighbourhoods in Indian cities. PepsiCo India's Gatorade 'Turf Finder': In collaboration with Leo Burnett India, Gatorade is set to launch Turf Finder , a platform designed to help people find available playing spaces in India’s crowded metropolitan areas. Starting in Mumbai and expanding to other major cities like Bengaluru, the platform addresses the acute shortage of recreational spaces in urban settings. The role of parents and guardians in play Parents and guardians are pivotal in guiding play. A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics (2007) revealed that children whose parents actively engage in their play activities show improved language skills and social development. Challenges to play Despite its benefits, access to play is not universal. Urbanisation and socioeconomic factors often limit play opportunities. The Global Play Alliance (2022) states that 30% of urban children worldwide lack access to safe play spaces. India's vast diversity and rapidly growing urban areas present challenges in ensuring adequate play spaces for children. Government surveys highlight a concerning deficit with 40% of schools across the country lacking a playground, a figure that rises dramatically in states like Bihar and Odisha, where the absence of playgrounds affects 65% and 70% of schools, respectively. This lack of facilities is contributing to significant health issues among children. Future of play As per LEGO , on a societal scale economies are set to lose out on big social and economic benefits if early childhood development and play is not prioritised. A recent report by The Royal Foundation Business Taskforce for Early Childhood estimated that investing in early childhood in the UK could add up to £45.5 billion (~INR 4 lakh crore) to the national economy each year. Simply put, playing is natural, healthy and part of being human - but it is also fundamental to personal and societal progress. This has long been recognised by the international community. Indeed, the UN Convention of the Rights of the Child, which almost all countries in the world have signed, recognises the right to play. And earlier this year, in a nod to the importance of this universally human activity, the UN General Assembly adopted an International Day of Play. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

A comprehensive guide to understand Tourette's in children and adults < Back Neurodiversity Tourette Syndrome: Symptoms, causes, management & support A comprehensive guide to understand Tourette's in children and adults MMS Staff 7 Jun 2024 4-min read Tourette Syndrome is a nervous system condition characterised by involuntary sounds and movements, called ‘tics’. While the core symptoms remain the same throughout life, how Tourette's syndrome presents itself can differ between children and adults. Tics typically appear between ages 5 and 9. ADHD and OCD are more prevalent in children and adults with Tourette’s. Signs and traits of Tourette Syndrome Tics are the defining characteristic of Tourette syndrome. These are sudden, brief bursts of movement or sound that can range from mild to severe. In some cases, severe tics can make it difficult to communicate, do daily activities. This might affect overall well-being. Types of tics: Motor tics: These involve involuntary movements of different body parts. Simple motor tics: These are quick and repetitive, affecting a limited number of muscles. Examples include blinking, head jerking, shrugging, or twitching the nose. Complex motor tics: These involve more coordinated movements of several muscles. Like touching or smelling objects repeatedly, copying someone else's movements, hopping, or making obscene gestures. Vocal tics: These are involuntary sounds a person might make. Simple vocal tics: These are brief, simple sounds like grunting, coughing, throat clearing, or barking. Complex vocal tics: These are more elaborate vocalisations. Like repeating your own words or phrases (echolalia), repeating what someone else says (coprolalia), or using swear words (copropraxia). Understanding tics: Tics can vary in terms of how often they happen (frequency), how strong they are (severity), and what kind of tic they are (type). Factors such as illness, stress, anxiety, tiredness, or excitement can make tics worse. They can even occur during sleep. Tics can change throughout a person's life. Often, they worsen in the early teenage years and improve as one transitions into adulthood. Before a tic happens, some people might feel an uncomfortable sensation in their body, like an itch, tingle, or tension. Performing the tic can actually relieve this feeling. Some people can suppress a tic for a short time, but it takes a lot of effort. Myths vs facts: Demystifying tics and Tourette Syndrome Myth: Everyone with Tourette syndrome yells swear words all the time. Fact: Only about 10-15% of people with Tourette syndrome experience coprolalia, the involuntary use of swear words. Myth: Tics are caused by bad parenting or a lack of discipline. Fact: Tourette syndrome is a neurological disorder, likely with a genetic component. There's no link to upbringing or a person's character. Myth: People with tics can easily control them if they try hard enough. Fact: Tics are involuntary, though some people can suppress them for a short while with significant effort. This suppression often leads to a stronger tic later, and might be severely uncomfortable for the person. Myth: Tics are a sign of intelligence problems. Fact: Tourette syndrome has no bearing on intelligence. Many people with Tourette syndrome are highly intelligent and successful. Myth: Tics only affect children. Fact: While tics often start in childhood, they can persist into adulthood. However, symptoms often improve as individuals transition into adulthood. Myth: Tics are contagious. Fact: Tics are not contagious. You cannot "catch" Tourette syndrome from someone else. Myth: Everyone who has tics has Tourette syndrome. Fact: Tics can be a symptom of other conditions as well. Tourette syndrome is a specific diagnosis with stricter criteria, including both motor and vocal tics lasting for more than a year. Myth: Stress causes tics. Fact: Stress can worsen existing tics, but it doesn't cause them. The underlying cause of Tourette syndrome is still being researched. Myth: People with tics are always frustrated or angry. Fact: While some people with tics may experience frustration due to their symptoms or negative biases, Tourette syndrome itself is not a mental health disorder and doesn't dictate emotions. How to interact with someone with Tourette Syndrome Sometimes social interactions can be exhausting for people with Tourette’s because of negative biases, ableist comments, and a general lack of awareness among people. Here are some things to remember if you want to be mindful of the experiences of someone who has Tourette’s: Tics are involuntary: Tics are uncontrollable movements or sounds. Scolding or asking someone to stop their tics is not cool. Focus on the person: Treat the person with Tourette’s just as you would anyone else. Engage in conversation, share interests, and build a rapport based on who they are, not their tics. Avoid prying: Skip questions like "What's wrong with you?" or "Can you control that?" These can be insensitive and embarrassing. Open communication: If appropriate, consider explaining Tourette syndrome to a child with TS. This can help them understand their own body and feel less anxious. Also try and sensitise their peers and friend circle. Empathy and support: Help the person with Tourette’s feel comfortable and accepted. Avoid stares or making them feel like their tics are a burden. Managing tics: Stress reduction techniques: Offer support through relaxation techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness. These can help manage stress and potentially reduce tic frequency or intensity. Focus on solutions: If someone with TS has tics that could cause harm, focus on collaborative solutions. This might involve finding fidget toys or adapting activities to reduce risk. Remember: Everyone experiences Tourette’s differently. Be patient, understanding, and create a space where the person with TS feels comfortable being themselves. Disclaimer: This article is intended for general awareness and understanding only. It is not written by medical professionals and should not be considered as medical advice. For professional diagnosis or treatment, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. 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

A show about murder, misogyny, and the men our boys are becoming < Back Gender, Education, Parenting The truth behind Adolescence, Netflix's new crime drama A show about murder, misogyny, and the men our boys are becoming Aditi Gangrade 7 Apr 2025 3-min read At first glance, Adolescence, Netflix’s new crime mini-series, looks like your standard whodunnit. A teenage girl is murdered. A teenage boy is arrested. We follow the fallout. But to reduce this show to a thriller about finding a killer is to miss its sharpest, most haunting truth. Adolescence isn’t a story about one violent boy. It’s a story about a violent system. About the schools, families, algorithms, governments, and silences that raised him. At the centre of Adolescence is 13-year-old Jamie — awkward, isolated, and slowly radicalised by a cocktail of neglect, toxic masculinity, and the internet’s darkest corners. He’s not an evil genius. He’s not even “bad.” He’s a kid. A kid raised in a home where power = manhood. In a school where bullying goes unnoticed and gender roles go unchallenged. And online, where influencers, and endless reels are teaching him that women are objects, weakness is failure, and violence is sometimes justified. The scariest part is that nothing about Jamie felt far-fetched. It felt familiar. This isn’t just happening “out there” As a woman in India, this hit close. Because we know this boy. We’ve seen him mocking his teachers. We’ve seen him online, saying “feminism has gone too far.” We’ve sat across the table from him, while adults — even women — excused his entitlement as “Boys will be boys.” We’ve seen how girls are trained to protect themselves from boys. But no one’s training boys to respect girls. Adolescence captures this divide in brutal detail — not just the physical violence, but the emotional breakdown of a society that rewards silent aggression in boys and constant self-policing in girls. Parenting isn't enough. It never was. Here’s the truth that often gets brushed aside: This isn’t just about parenting. Yes, parents play a big role. But children spend most of their time being shaped by everything else — schools, peers, gaming chatrooms, TV, TikTok, the government policies (or lack thereof) around sex education, digital safety, and gender rights. It’s not enough to tell parents to "monitor screen time." We need schools that actively teach consent and emotional intelligence, not just math. We need tech platforms to stop pushing toxic content to young boys in the name of “engagement.” We need governments to fund programs that challenge misogyny, rather than quietly enabling it. We need a whole system shift — not just better parenting books. It’s about the boys and the girls One of the most uncomfortable truths in Adolescence is that Katie — the girl Jamie is accused of killing — was also part of the cycle. She bullied him. She mocked him using the same incel language the internet gave her. Because when you live in a world that’s always teaching girls to perform toughness and boys to perform dominance — even the victims start playing along. There are no neat lines here. And that’s what makes the show so hard to watch — and so necessary. We don’t need more strong daughters. We need kinder sons. We’ve told girls to speak up, defend themselves, “be bold.” Now it’s time we start telling boys that strength isn’t about silence, or power, or control. That it’s okay to cry. That it’s good to be kind. That respect isn’t a favour, it's basic. And to do that, we need to give them real role models — not just alpha male influencers or “nice guys” with entitlement issues. We need teachers, uncles, coaches, politicians, fathers — and yes, even boys raised by strong women — to show them that masculinity can look like care. The real question isn't who killed Katie. It’s what killed all of them? What killed Jamie’s empathy? What killed Katie’s compassion? What killed our ability to see the signs? We won’t fix this with one campaign or one conversation. But we can start naming the systems that are failing our kids — and start building new ones. Because Adolescence doesn’t just show us what happened. It warns us what’s coming. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Tech leaders push for merit-based policies, but at what cost to diversity and innovation? < Back Work, News, Gender The MEI vs DEI debate: Is this a step back for inclusion Tech leaders push for merit-based policies, but at what cost to diversity and innovation? MMS Staff 30 Jun 2024 4-min read ‘Scale is a meritocracy and we must always remain one.’ Tech entrepreneur Alexandr Wang posted on X last week saying his company Scale AI was replacing DEI (diversity, equity, inclusion) with ‘MEI.’ MEI, Wang added, stands for merit, excellence, intelligence. ‘Talent is our #1 input metric,’ the founder said. Unsurprisingly, Tesla CEO Elon Musk applauded Wang on the move. “Great!” Musk responded, in a reply to Wang. Musk wasn’t alone in the list of company heads congratulating Wang on the move; Sequoia partner Shaun Maguire and Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong hopped onto the appreciation bandwagon as well. Musk and plenty other leaders have been more than vocal about their dislike for DEI. In a post on X earlier, Musk had said: “DEI is just another word for racism. Shame on anyone who uses it.” Alarmingly, there’s a growing community of people actively in support of MEI over DEI. What this community gets wrong is that DEI does not mean prioritising diversity while ignoring other qualifications. Ironically, Wang’s post ends up lending credence to the very cornerstone of DEI hiring. “There are a lot of things in this post that are actually, perhaps surprisingly, aligned with the goals of a lot of DEI practitioners,” said Natalie Johnson, cofounder and managing director of strategy at DEI consulting firm Paradigm, in this story on Fortune. “I think for many, many years now, we have failed to recognize that and have failed to make that connection that, oftentimes, we have the same values, the same principles, that we’re building off of.” Speaking of diversity, in the AI industry alone, women make up just 30% of global roles. This is especially concerning considering how many Large Learning Models (LLMs) have biases in-built because of the lack of diversity within the teams working on them. Ranking high among AI’s biases is gender bias. The Artificial Intelligence and Gender Equality report by UN Women has identified a clear gender gap in access to the Internet, which manifests in the gender bias in AI. This study by the Berkeley Haas Center for Equity, Gender and Leadership analysed 133 AI systems across different industries and found that 44 per cent of them showed gender bias and 25 per cent both gender and racial bias. If AI is trained on data that is biassed, a natural consequence is it will learn and internalise that bias and incorporate it in the results it throws up. And gender bias is not the only kind AI perpetuates. Recently AI also came under fire for discriminating against people with disabilities by ranking CVs of disabled people lower than able-bodied people. DEI policies are put in place not only to ensure the right representation among the workforce but also to make sure every voice is heard, every person has a level playing field, and decision-making is fair and just. As Lisa Simon, chief economist at analytics platform Revelio Labs rightly puts it: “...as soon as you remove (DEI policies), people go back to hiring people that look like them.” Bias and discrimination are the prime reasons DEI came into being in the 1960s . Since then, companies have made significant strides in diversifying their workforce through internal policy reforms and structural changes in their hiring & talent development processes. Lots of data has emerged over time that shows how effective DEI boosts innovation , leads to higher revenues and results in greater employee satisfaction. There is also ample data to show that a large percentage of employees who are dissatisfied by ‘non-inclusive workplaces’ plan to quit within 12 months. And that is the fundamental issue with placing MEI over DEI - a less diverse team means a more homogenous outlook of the world, which severely limits the potential of both artificial intelligence as well as human teams, both of which are crucial in ensuring organisational success in today’s day and age. Not to mention rallying against DEI invisibilises the lived experiences of people who have been systemically marginalised, and denies them the opportunity to present their perspectives to the world. It ensures that systemic oppression is never weeded out. If the pushback against DEI goes on, AI-powered technology and services will evolve to be severely deficient of diverse perspectives. The teams in our workplaces will homogenise and innovation might come to a complete standstill. The gap will consequently result in a lower quality of services as well as biassed decisions about jobs, credit, health care and more. What are your thoughts about the DEI vs MEI debate? Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Abhishek Singh awarded Man of the Match, Sai Akash bags Player of the Series < Back News, Disability Indian Deaf cricket team beats England in bilateral T20 series Abhishek Singh awarded Man of the Match, Sai Akash bags Player of the Series MMS Staff 3 Jul 2024 2-min read Only a couple of days ago did India win the international T20 World Cup. And the entire nation erupted in celebration. Streets were filled with cheers and celebration, and fireworks lit up the sky. And yet, when the Indian Deaf Cricket Team had achieved their historic victory just two days earlier, there was complete silence. On June 27, the Indian Deaf Cricket Team emerged victorious at the County Ground, Leicester in the bilateral series against England. They beat the English Men’s Deaf Cricket team by 5 - 2 in a 7-match series. The Indian team’s success is a moment of celebration for the entire nation, marking another milestone in the journey of Indian cricket. The men in blue continue to inspire, paving the way for future generations of D/ deaf cricketers. The Indian team dominated the series, defeating the hosts in the final match by six wickets. In the finals, India - electing to bowl - restricted England to 164 for 4 and then chased down the target with four balls to spare, riding on half-centuries by Abhishek (68) and Umar Ashraf (56). Despite not having the best of starts losing the first three wickets for only 46 runs, Abhishek and Ashraf’s 95-run partnership rebuilt the innings and took the side over the line. Abhishek Singh was awarded Man of the Match, while Sai Akash Man of the Series. Captain Virender Singh took the maximum wickets. Speaking on this achievement, Sumit Jain, President of the Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA), said, “The victory in this bilateral series against England is not just a win on the field but a testament to the dedication and skill of our hearing-impaired players. It marks a significant milestone for deaf cricket in India, showcasing our capability to compete and succeed at the highest levels of the sport.” The series win underscores the growing talent and potential within the D/ deaf cricketing community. Roma Balwani, CEO of IDCA, said, “I am thrilled by India’s historic triumph against England in the bilateral series. This victory underscores our team’s commitment to excellence in cricket." The team’s achievements highlight the importance of inclusivity in sports and demonstrate that with the right opportunities and support, athletes can excel at the highest levels. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Former Chief Justice opens up about how most Indian homes remain unfit for disabled people < Back Disability, News, Parenting India isn’t built for the Disabled — DY Chandrachud Former Chief Justice opens up about how most Indian homes remain unfit for disabled people MMS Staff 19 Apr 2025 3-min read When the 50th Chief Justice of India Dr DY Chandrachud recently spoke about his struggle to find an accessible home for his daughters with disabilities, it wasn’t just a personal anecdote, it was a national wake-up call. Speaking at a recent event on disability rights, Chandrachud said, “We have two beautiful daughters who are children with special needs. But every house we go to is just not equipped for a family with disabled members.” Chandrachud, who must vacate his official residence by April 30, shared that his family has been actively searching for a home to rent. But the options, even in India’s capital, are startlingly inaccessible. “We saw a lovely house today,” he said. “But the rooms were at different levels, separated by a step. And the landlord said, ‘I’ll put a wooden ramp,’ not realising that accessibility isn’t just about connecting Level 0 to Level 1. It’s much more.” When the system fails the system The irony is hard to miss. Here is one of the most powerful men in India’s judiciary, someone who has presided over landmark rulings on disability rights, now confronting the very barriers he has spent years trying to dismantle. If Chandrachud and his family are facing these obstacles, what about the millions of Indians with disabilities who lack the same influence, resources, or legal knowledge? A country still not built for disabled people India passed the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (RPWD) in 2016. The law mandates accessibility in buildings, transport, communication, and digital services. But implementation has lagged. Budget allocations remain inadequate, and public and private infrastructures alike continue to ignore basic design standards. Where they exist, accessible infrastructure is patchy. Ramps, if present, are often too steep. Elevators are missing or non-functional. Tactile paving is placed in arbitrary directions. Toilets are not usable for wheelchair users. And in most Indian homes, steps at the entrance or inside rooms make independent living nearly impossible. The issue is not a lack of laws but a lack of will, societal understanding, and inclusive design. From the courtroom to the community To be clear, Chandrachud is no stranger to the disability rights movement. As Chief Justice, he delivered the 2017 judgment in the Rajiv Rathod case, directing states to draft comprehensive accessibility plans. He also established the Supreme Court Accessibility Committee in 2022, and released the Supreme Court’s Disability Handbook in 2023, guiding judges on disability-inclusive jurisprudence. At the event, he emphasised that law alone is not enough. “Courts can only go so far,” he said. “There must be incentives — like tax benefits — for accessible design. And there should be monetary sanctions, not criminal ones, for non-compliance.” He also addressed the need for empathy-led judiciary reforms, supporting the idea of benches that understand disability rights, even if not exclusively dedicated to them. Who designs for whom? India’s cities — its homes, schools, airports, parks, courts, and buses — are largely designed for the non-disabled. For the 26.8 million disabled people in India (as per Census 2011, though estimates are likely much higher), the world outside is often a series of closed doors. And while accessibility is often painted as a “special need,” it is, in fact, a universal need. An elderly person recovering from surgery, a parent pushing a stroller, a delivery worker carrying heavy loads... everyone benefits from barrier-free design. A moment of reckoning That it took a former Chief Justice’s personal housing struggle to reignite this conversation says something about the invisibilisation of disabled voices in public discourse. The path forward Chandrachud concluded with a note of quiet urgency: “Disability law cuts across the whole of society. It’s not like insolvency law, which requires niche expertise. What it requires is understanding and design that respects dignity.” Until then, the former Chief Justice — and millions of disabled Indians — will keep encountering steps where there should have been bridges. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

What soaring temperatures, health issues, and systemic neglect can do to those on the margins < Back Climate, Disability, Health Navigating disability, domestic violence & climate crisis in a Delhi slum What soaring temperatures, health issues, and systemic neglect can do to those on the margins Puneet Singh Singhal 20 Jun 2024 5-min read In the narrow, winding lanes of a Delhi slum, where the sun is relentless and the ground is scorched, a story unfolds — one that many will find hard to grasp let alone endure. I grew up in these sweltering corners, living with dyslexia, dyspraxia, and a stammer, all while being the lifeline for my chronically ill mother. We’ve survived domestic violence, yes, but we’re also survivors of an increasingly hostile world — socially, environmentally, and mentally. When environmental crises devastate lives You may read about the heatwaves or monsoon floods, but do you feel them? Can you feel the sweat trickling down your spine as you desperately search for a drop of water? Can you sense the despair, almost tangible, as you watch your mother’s health deteriorate with each passing minute? Living through a Delhi heatwave, in a fragile home with no escape from the oppressive heat, feels like being trapped in an oven. The sun becomes an unforgiving foe, and the air turns into a suffocating shroud. During one unbearable summer, our neighbourhood faced an acute water crisis. Imagine being parched but having not a single drop to drink. Every breath became a laborious task; each moment felt endless. My mother’s existing health issues worsened terribly. Dehydration ravaged her body, while her chronic ailments flared up with newfound intensity. As for me, the heatwaves weren’t just a weather event; they were a neurological, physiological, and psychological disaster. My dyspraxia symptoms intensified, making everyday tasks — like lifting a glass of water — an exhausting struggle. The constant stress and anxiety from watching my mother suffer and feeling helpless to alleviate her pain took a severe toll on my mental health, leading to heightened levels of stress and anxiety. Dealing with a broken healthcare system When you’re fighting to save a loved one’s life while also grappling with disabilities, every second feels like an eternity. The journey to the hospital was a nightmare. Public hospitals were our only hope, but they were dreadful. Doctors and nurses did their best but were woefully under-equipped to handle the flood of patients. Can you fathom the helplessness I felt when I stammered while trying to explain my mother’s rapidly worsening condition? Time and again, I was met with impatient stares or pitying glances, neither of which helped our dire situation. The agony of being trapped in that atmosphere — where you’re just a number, a statistic — is indescribable. The urgent need for climate-resilient, inclusive healthcare Here’s the gut-wrenching truth: if healthcare infrastructure continues to ignore the heightened vulnerabilities of people with disabilities, we’re not just failing as a society; we’re perpetuating suffering and loss. Our healthcare systems need to be fortified with climate-resilient policies and infrastructures. Wheelchair ramps and Braille signage aren’t luxuries; they’re necessities. Doctors need training to understand the unique challenges that environmental disasters pose to individuals with disabilities. It’s not just about ramps and signs; it’s about creating a space where the most vulnerable can feel safe, especially when the world outside is falling apart. Statistics highlighting the impact According to a 2021 climate report heat waves will last 25 times longer 2036 through 2065 in India if emissions push towards a global temperature rise of 4°C under business-as-usual global emission scenarios. The Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change reports that annual heat-related mortality of people older than 65 years is projected to increase by 370% above 1995 – 2014 levels by 2041 – 60 under a scenario compatible with limiting global temperature rise to 2°C, and by 433% under a scenario in which no further mitigation occurs, assuming no further adaptation. By 2081 – 2100, these mortality levels are projected to increase by 683% and 1537% for the two scenarios, respectively. According to this Indian Express article, in Delhi, the world is most likely to temporarily breach the 1.5 degree Celsius limit in the next five years. Each year between 2024 and 2028 is predicted to be between 1.1 degree Celsius and 1.9 degree Celsius higher than the pre-industrial average. Specific healthcare system gaps The public healthcare system in Delhi, and much of India, is severely underfunded. Hospitals often lack essential medical supplies and have insufficient staff to handle patient inflows. For people with disabilities, the challenges are even more pronounced. There are limited provisions for accessible healthcare facilities, and medical staff often lack training in disability-inclusive practices. For instance, during our hospital visits, we encountered long waiting times and inadequate attention to my mother's specific health needs. The lack of air conditioning in many public hospitals exacerbates heat stress for patients and staff alike. Moreover, the absence of accessible communication tools, such as sign language interpreters or text-to-speech devices, creates additional barriers for people with disabilities. Concrete steps for addressing healthcare gaps Investment in infrastructure: Increase funding for public healthcare to improve infrastructure, ensuring hospitals are equipped to handle extreme weather conditions. This includes air conditioning, adequate water supply, and accessible facilities. Training for healthcare professionals: Implement comprehensive training programs for healthcare workers on disability-inclusive practices and climate resilience. Accessible communication: Develop and deploy accessible communication tools in hospitals, such as sign language interpreters and text-to-speech devices, to aid patients with disabilities. Community outreach: Establish community health programs to educate residents about coping mechanisms during extreme weather events and to provide first-response medical aid. Potential measures for climate action Urban planning: Develop urban areas with better heat mitigation strategies, such as green spaces, reflective roofing, and improved water management systems. Early warning systems: Enhance early warning systems for heatwaves and floods to give vulnerable communities ample time to prepare and evacuate if necessary. Sustainable practices: Promote sustainable agricultural and industrial practices to reduce the urban heat island effect and ensure a stable water supply. Policy advocacy: Advocate for policies that prioritise climate resilience in healthcare planning and funding. More than just numbers Statistics can be cold and detached, but stories like mine are filled with raw emotion. The vulnerability, the desperation, the feeling of being caught in an unending cycle of despair — they bring a certain urgency that numbers alone cannot. So here it is, a candid snapshot of what it’s like to live at the devastating intersection of disability and climate-induced healthcare challenges. It’s a cry from the depths of my soul and from the hearts of countless others, who, like my mother and me, are battling more than just social and economic disparities. As we desperately seek solutions for climate change, let’s remember that the first step towards true climate justice is acknowledging and acting upon the exacerbated healthcare challenges faced by the disabled and vulnerable. Let’s strive to build healthcare ecosystems where no one is left to suffer, simply because of who they are or where they come from. The battles we fight today go beyond us; they’re a plea to humanity to wake up, take notice, and act — before it’s too late. Puneet Singh is a disability inclusion advocate and an accessibility professional. He is a person with dyslexia, dyspraxia and stammering. He is the co-founder of Billion Strong, curator of Green Disability and a Bevisioneers fellow. Connect with him on LinkedIn . Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS