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Kartik Aaryan-starrer Chandu Champion is a tribute to the 1965 war hero & para athlete from India < Back Disability, News New film celebrates paralympic gold medalist Murlikant Petkar Kartik Aaryan-starrer Chandu Champion is a tribute to the 1965 war hero & para athlete from India MMS Staff 14 Jun 2024 3-min read Bollywood - at long last - seems to be going big on disabled stories. After the release and success of the Rajkumar Rao-starrer Srikanth, based on the life of visually-impaired entrepreneur Srikanth Bolla, director Kabir Khan and producer Sajid Nadiadwala have teamed up on Chandu Champion, which hit theatres today. Chandu Champion is a sports drama starring Kartik Aaryan. The film is based on the life of Murlikant Petkar, an ex-jawan in the Indian Army who went on to become India's first Paralympic gold medalist, tracing his journey from soldier to ace sportsman. From Sangli to the global stage Born on November 1, 1944 in Peth Islampur, Maharashtra, Petkar developed a keen interest in athletics early on in life, particularly wrestling and hockey. Even after joining the Indian Army, he continued to excel in sports. According to his website , the 1965 Indo-Pakistan war left him severely injured and with a permanent spinal cord injury as well as memory loss. Acquiring a disability Within 2 years, Petkar was well on the road to recovery. In 1968, he was already participating and making a mark in state-level sports such as shot-put, javelin throw, discus throw, weightlifting, table tennis and archery. During this time, Petkar trained vigorously, mastering the freestyle swimming technique with just one functional arm. And sure enough, he clinched gold in the 50-metre freestyle swimming event at the 1972 Summer Paralympics held in Germany, showing the world that success in sport isn’t reserved only for those who fit a traditional athletic mould. Petkar also set a world record with a time of 37.33 seconds, one that stood for many years. Petkar has continued to be involved in sports and has been an advocate for sports and the rights of disabled individuals in India. He has received various awards and recognition, though many feel his contributions and achievements have not received the level of recognition they deserve. In 2018, the government of India honoured him with the Padma Shri, one of the country's highest civilian awards, acknowledging his contributions and achievements in sports. Recognition and representation Chandu Champion releases at a crucial time in history, when discussions around the portrayal of disabled individuals in media are increasingly becoming more and more prominent, and disability advocacy is at the highest it has been. But all said and done, as a society we still need to deeply reflect on how disabled athletes - and people in general - are represented in our films and TV. While the stories of disabled people need to be told, we also need to make sure that their portrayals do not oversimplify their lives but instead offer a nuanced view of their lived experiences. It is now more crucial than ever to discuss the delicate line between celebrating achievements and veering into the territory of inspiration porn. It is also very important to remember that disabled people do not exist only to make the able-bodied feel better about their own lives. If you’ve watched Chandu Champion, we’re keen to hear your thoughts about the disability representation in the movie. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Neurodivergence & innovation: How strengths-based support transforms lives < Back Neurodiversity, Parenting, Education Boy with learning disabilities turns entrepreneur making $5K an hour Neurodivergence & innovation: How strengths-based support transforms lives MMS Staff 21 Nov 2024 2-min read At just 14 years old, Tucker Findley is a successful entrepreneur with a six-figure business. But his journey wasn’t straightforward. Diagnosed with learning disabilities and a neurological condition, Tucker couldn’t read, write, or count past 10 by the time he was 9. School was a daily struggle, and he felt like he didn’t belong. Everything changed the day Tucker found golf balls near his Sterling, Virginia, home. Instead of seeing them as just objects, he saw an opportunity. “I found golf balls everywhere,” he recalls. He started cleaning and selling them on Facebook Marketplace, where they sold out — 2,000 in just three days. Tucker reinvested his profits, hiring friends to help and even buying a kayak to collect more balls. From there, he expanded his focus to antiques and collectibles, inspired by TV shows like Antiques Roadshow. With his parents’ support, Tucker opened an eBay store and quickly realized he had a knack for spotting undervalued items. A $6 BMX bike frame turned into $500 in parts. A Barbie doll sold for $1,000. “It wasn’t just about making money,” says Tucker’s mom, Rebecca. “It was about seeing him excited to learn.” Tucker, who has dyslexia and dyscalculia, found ways to improve his math and reading through his business. Counting golf balls, tracking profits, and negotiating deals taught him skills he’d struggled to grasp in traditional classrooms. His online school even built lessons around his business activities. Today, Tucker runs his business - Tucker’s Vintage Treasures - out of a 2,500-square-foot warehouse at home. He sells everything from sneakers to vintage toys through eBay and livestream auctions, sometimes making over $5,000 in just an hour. What sets Tucker apart isn’t just his business success — it’s how he gives back. When he earns big profits from items he buys cheaply, he often returns to the seller and shares the earnings. “I’m honest and fair,” he says. Tucker’s journey underscores the importance of focusing on neurodivergent children’s strengths instead of their challenges. His father, Ryan, left his job to homeschool Tucker, tailoring his education to what he loved. “The most important thing is to find what you’re good at,” Tucker says. Tucker’s story is a reminder that every child has potential. Sometimes, all they need is the right environment to let it shine. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

More sports personalities opening up about mental health struggles shows it can happen to anyone < Back News, Health, Neurodiversity Athletes who sought mental health help & bounced back for the Olympics More sports personalities opening up about mental health struggles shows it can happen to anyone MMS Staff 30 Jul 2024 5-min read In an age where competition is fierce, and the expectation from you is to be on top of your game, three athletes stand out not only for their spectacular performance at the Olympics but for being vocal about their health issues and seeking help. 1. Adam Peaty Great Britain's Adam Peaty, a swimmer who specialises in the breaststroke, is a two-time gold winner at the Olympics, an eight-time World Champion, sixteen-time European Champion, and four-time Commonwealth Champion. Peaty is also a world record holder for the 50-metre and 100-metre breaststroke events. In April 2023, after being in what he described as a “self-destructive spiral” stemming from personal issues, Peaty withdrew from the British Swimming Championships. Soon after he revealed that he was struggling with his mental health, and had depression, an alcohol problem, and had been diagnosed with ADHD. “It’s been an incredibly lonely journey. The devil on my shoulder [says], ‘You’re missing out on life. You’re not good enough. You need a drink. You can’t have what you want. You can’t be happy,’” he had said at the time. In a social media post, he wrote : “Very few people understand what winning and success does to an individual’s mental health. They don’t understand the pressures these individuals put on themselves to win over and over again.” Then, Sunday evening, Peaty went on to win silver in the men’s 100-metre breaststroke event. Peaty came second to Italy’s Nicolò Martinenghi by just 0.02 seconds. Peaty wrote on his Instagram: “A night full of raw emotion and sport in its true form. These last 14 months have been incredibly testing and I do not regret one training session or decision I made. I’ve continued to fight and find new ways to enjoy something that has broken me to the core and to end up with an Olympic silver through all of that is an absolute blessing. I’m more proud of the man and athlete I am from last night than I have been across my entire career.” 2. Kimberley Woods British slalom canoeist Kimberley Woods is a six-time World and eight-time European Champion. Previously, Woods has won 14 medals at the European Championships, and the World Cup title in Kayak Cross in 2023. Woods has spoken openly about being bullied for her muscular physique as a kid, and using canoeing as an escape from the trauma. “Most of the time I owned it. I was like: ‘So what? I need strong arms for sport.’ But of course I felt self-conscious being around girls and women who don’t look like that. I spent many a bus ride home crying,” she said in an interview with the Guardian. “I dealt with it on my own. When I went home ... I made sure I’d have a straight face as I didn’t want anyone to see me [crying].” In 2015, after a sport-related injury, Woods was forced to stop canoeing. “My only outlet then was self-harming,” she says, “and it was really hard to get out of that habit. As soon as something got hard that was my immediate response because physical pain was easier than emotional pain. I kept everything to myself and hid it.” Finally Woods came out to her coach of many years, Craig Morris, about her struggles. Morris - whom Woods calls a father figure - was patient, and put her on to a counsellor. Woods was admitted to the mental hospital twice, and has had suicidal ideation. “It’s been a long time since I [self-harmed]. The last time was after a race, just before the Tokyo Olympics [in 2021]. It was overwhelming racing again after Covid. But, since then, I’ve had different strategies to avoid self-harming. I still have a hairband on my wrist which I just flick and that changes the senses. Sometimes, I just need a little cry or I talk to my partner, Elliott, or Craig and we break it down and I feel calm,” she says. On Sunday, Woods bagged her first Olympic medal - a bronze - in the women’s kayak single (K1) final in Paris. Three years ago she had crashed out of the 2020 Olympics after her debut Olympics event did not end well for her. But today, she prepares for a second shot at gold as Paris 2024 debuts the kayak cross event. “I’m probably maybe one of the favourites in the kayak cross but I’m not thinking about that, I’m just thinking about being out there and enjoying the crowd, and I can’t wait to sit on top of that ramp.” 3. Simone Biles American-Belizean artistic gymnast Biles has 7 Olympic and 30 World Championships to her name, making her the most decorated gymnast in history. Just ahead of the 2016 Olympics in Rio, Biles came out about having the twisties, a condition that affects gymnasts, throwing off their sense of rhythm. “The best way I can describe it is everyday you drive a car — if one day you woke up and you had no idea how to drive a car, your legs are going crazy, you have no control of your body,” Biles had said on a podcast. “You’ve been doing something for so long, and you now no longer have control. It’s terrifying.” Soon after, Biles went on a mental health break, and has since become a strong advocate for mental health. Biles was also diagnosed with ADHD as a kid, and has said, “...taking medicine for it is nothing to be ashamed of, nothing that I'm afraid to let people know.” “I worked on myself a lot, I still do therapy weekly, and it’s just been so exciting to come out here and have the confidence I had before,” Biles said in an interview with CNBC. Tuesday night, Biles will compete in four events representing her country, USA. The events include vault, floor exercise, balance beam and uneven bars. Because elite athletes are constantly subject to brutal public attention , many commentators, spectators and social media trolls see mental health breaks and vulnerabilities as acts of ‘quitting,’ or ‘not wanting to try hard enough.’ Their resilience, strength and will to win is called into question. But more athletes and sports figures speaking openly about mental health issues and illnesses goes to show that you could be in your best form and best shape physically, and still be in a bad place mentally. That mental health struggles and mental illness are not a sign of weakness. They happen to the best of us. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Sunflower lanyard-wearing characters signal a powerful step towards inclusion in toymaker’s universe < Back Neurodiversity, News, Disability New LEGO characters aim to represent hidden disabilities such as autism Sunflower lanyard-wearing characters signal a powerful step towards inclusion in toymaker’s universe MMS Staff 11 Dec 2024 3-min read In a significant step towards fostering inclusivity, global toymaker Lego has announced the introduction of characters wearing sunflower lanyards, a globally recognised symbol of hidden disabilities such as autism, ADHD, and chronic illnesses. This initiative is part of Lego's broader commitment to ensuring its toy universe mirrors the diverse realities of the world. The sunflower lanyard, developed by Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, offers a discreet way for individuals with hidden disabilities to signal that they may require extra understanding or support. Recognised in over 90 countries, the lanyard has become a beacon for inclusion and awareness, providing a simple yet powerful tool for advocacy. Lego has been a trendsetter in creating diverse and representative characters. Over the years, the company has introduced figures with Down Syndrome, limb differences, anxiety, and vitiligo, earning praise for its thoughtful approach to inclusivity. The new sunflower lanyard-wearing characters span a range of age groups and products, from the preschooler-friendly Duplo sets to the intricate Icons range for adult collectors. Lauren von Stackelberg, Lego Group's Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer, emphasized the responsibility the brand feels in shaping young minds: As one of the most loved toy brands, we know that our choices about which characters we make and what stories we tell about them have a big impact on how kids learn to perceive the world. We hope that modeling a world in which all kinds of people are celebrated will help us all embrace diversity, value inclusivity, and remove stigma. ” Among the upcoming sets is the Duplo First Time at the Airport, aimed at helping toddlers process their feelings about travel. The set includes a child character wearing a sunflower lanyard, alongside a suitcase and a teddy bear. For older children, the Friends Airport Scene features Ryan, a university student wearing noise-reducing headphones and a sunflower lanyard to illustrate the sensory considerations of neurodivergent individuals. The Icons Tudor Corner set, designed for adult collectors, integrates hidden disability representation subtly but meaningfully. It includes a neurodivergent character who keeps her sunflower lanyard by her door, a detail reflecting the everyday lives of many individuals with invisible disabilities. Paul White, Chief Executive of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, applauded Lego's initiative, noting: Opting to wear the lanyard is a simple way of sharing that you have a hidden disability, letting everyone know that you might need extra help, understanding, or just more time. It’s a reminder that disability isn’t always visible — only 7% of disabled people use wheelchairs, yet many face challenges requiring support. ” Lego’s move comes at a time when awareness about hidden disabilities is growing, but societal understanding remains limited. In the UK, for instance, one in five people live with a disability, with 80% of these being non-visible. Disabilities can range from neurological conditions like autism and ADHD to chronic illnesses such as fibromyalgia and Parkinson’s disease. By incorporating sunflower lanyard characters into its range, Lego is challenging stereotypes and encouraging conversations about the lived experiences of those with hidden disabilities. Research by the company highlights a generational shift: 88% of children surveyed believe in treating everyone equally, and 83% want toys that teach them about differences. Through thoughtful representation, Lego is shaping a generation that values diversity and empathy. Its commitment extends beyond the toy box, serving as a call to action for society to recognise and embrace the nuances of disability. As Paul White noted, creating an accepting society benefits everyone: A more inclusive world raises the bar for everyone, enabling people with disabilities to do everything they should be able to do. ” Lego’s sunflower lanyard characters are not just toys — they’re a step toward a world where understanding, support, and acceptance are the norm. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

How bad media representation of disability fuels stereotypes and excludes disabled voices < Back News, Disability Ableist magazine covers: A look through time How bad media representation of disability fuels stereotypes and excludes disabled voices MMS Staff 6 Jul 2024 4-min read That ableism - a term whose literal meaning is discrimination against people with disabilities - is deeply embedded in our society is no unknown fact. But when it rears its ugly head through mass media, and in the form of magazine covers no less, ableist attitudes are further perpetuated, making life even more difficult for those with disabilities and illnesses. Over the years, many magazines have carried brazenly ableist covers, enraging and prompting pushback by disability activists. This article is a collection of instances when our media has been supremely (and shamelessly) ableist. Instances of ableist magazine and newspaper covers through history Time Magazine (2003): Time Magazine ran a cover titled “Overcoming Dyslexia,” spreading gross misinformation about learning disabilities. The term “overcoming” implies that dyslexia is something to be conquered, rather than a difference to be understood and accommodated. This is especially wrong considering affirming language is crucial in shaping perceptions and attitudes towards disabilities and neurodivergent conditions. Interview Magazine (2015): In 2015, supermodel-entrepreneur Kylie Jenner was criticised for a photoshoot in Interview Magazine where she posed in a wheelchair. Disabled individuals and advocates found this use of a wheelchair as a fashion prop deeply offensive. Beth Grossman, Head of Policy at the disability charity Scope, remarked, “Having a non-disabled person in a wheelchair, as a provocative fashion prop, will offend many disabled people. It’s rare that we see aspirational and authentic reflections of disabled people in advertising and the media.” The Economist (2016): The Economist's April 2016 cover titled “Beautiful Minds, Wasted” was another egregious instance of blatant ableism perpetuated by mass media. Not only did the headline suggest autistic minds are wasted, the inappropriate puzzle piece depiction insinuated that autistic people are 'broken', need 'fixing', or complex beings who can't be 'figured out'. Patronising autistic people by using the ableist phrase "Beautiful Minds, Wasted" shows how even big, global publications don't make the effort to understand autism from a neurodiversity-affirming perspective. The failure to consult with autistic people and include their perspectives in the story was a significant oversight. The New Yorker (2023): The New Yorker stirred controversy with a cover featuring US political leaders using walkers. The cartoon depicted Donald Trump, Mitch McConnell, Nancy Pelosi, and Joe Biden as frail and elderly, using mobility aids they do not actually need. This portrayal was criticised for its ageist and ableist implications, suggesting that age and the use of mobility aids diminish one’s capabilities. The Economist (2024): And the Economist, astonishingly, did it once again with their July 4 cover attacking President Joe Biden, depicting him as a “befuddled old man” using a zimmer frame branded with the presidential seal. This imagery sparked widespread outrage for its ableist undertones, suggesting that mobility aid use equates to unfitness for leadership. Catarina Rivera, a prominent disability advocate, expressed her dismay on LinkedIn: “This week's The Economist cover is ableist, disgraceful, and deeply offensive. It suggests that someone who uses a walker as a mobility aid is unfit to run the country. Disabled people are very capable of leadership — period (not 'despite' our disabilities, just exactly as we are). Using a mobility aid isn't something that's shameful or that makes someone unfit for leadership.” Heather Thompson, another advocate, shared her personal struggle with internalised ableism: “I used to hate my walker; I struggled with my own internalised ableism every time I needed to use the walker in public. What would people think? Your magazine cover validates my fears by normalising these false beliefs. A walker does not represent decline, nor is it synonymous with intellectual weakness.” Julia M, an able-bodied elder, condemned the cover for its harmful implications: “This is the most insulting, discriminatory, ableist cover for a major publication that I can remember. As an able-bodied elder, I condemn this harmful, ageist, and slanderous artwork. This is trash.” These voices highlight the broader impact of such representations, which extend beyond the individual to affect the entire disabled community. The harm of ableist depictions Ableist depictions in the media do undeniable harm. Ableist behaviours, notions and attitudes encourage stereotypes, reinforce bias, and marginalise disabled individuals. When disability is used as an insult or a symbol of incompetence, it results in a culture of exclusion and discrimination. Ableist representations of disability and neurodivergence also contribute to internalised ableism among individuals with these lived experiences, resulting in shame and self-stigma due to negative societal attitudes. Disability advocates emphasise the importance of accurate, respectful representations in the media. As Catarina Rivera pointed out, “Let's not forget that FDR (Franklin D Roosevelt) was a disabled president and a wheelchair user. The impact of this cover extends beyond The Economist itself.” Ongoing instances of ableist behaviours in various institutions and the media highlights the need for continuous advocacy and education. As Heather Thompson said, “Some of the greatest courage I’ve witnessed has come from those stepping into a walker and taking their fierce first steps.” Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Heriberto Almonte, resident of Brooklyn, will assist officers with outreach & engagement efforts < Back Disability, News, Work NYPD swears in one of its first deaf interns Heriberto Almonte, resident of Brooklyn, will assist officers with outreach & engagement efforts MMS Staff 14 Jul 2024 1-min read The New York Police Department (NYPD) swore in one of its first deaf interns on Friday, June 12. Heriberto Almonte - a college student - will be assigned to NYPD Community Affairs, where he will be assisting with the development of an outreach and engagement plan for the deaf and hard of hearing community. Almonte will be tasked with helping officers understand what it’s like to interact with the D/ deaf community. A resident of Brooklyn, Almonte first came to the United States when he was 12. That was also when he learnt and started communicating in sign language. “If it wasn’t for the NYPD or the education that I received, I wouldn’t feel confident. I wouldn’t receive the knowledge that I have today,” Almonte signed at his swearing-in ceremony. Prior to moving to the United States, Almonte lived in the Dominican Republic where, he added, there were no schools that understood and accommodated his needs. Almonte’s internship lasts up to 13 weeks, post which Almonte plans to continue working with the d/ Deaf community. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

As Grok “undressing” spreads, Hilton and Ocasio-Cortez urge Congress to allow survivors to sue < Back Gender, Media, News Paris Hilton, AOC push DEFIANCE Act against AI deepfakes As Grok “undressing” spreads, Hilton and Ocasio-Cortez urge Congress to allow survivors to sue MMS Staff 28 Jan 2026 4-min read Grok AI is being used to digitally undress women and children, and despite public pledges to suspend the feature, investigators and journalists have confirmed that it continues to power the creation of non-consensual sexualised images of real people, women, girls. In some cases, images appear to involve minors. What’s actually happening on Grok On Grok, users have been uploading photos of real women and children, some as young as 10, prompting the AI to “remove their clothes.” The results are hypersexualised deepfakes, edited into bikinis, lingerie, porn-like poses, sometimes with fake filters meant to simulate bodily fluids. Between December 25, 2025 and January 1, 2026, AI Forensics tracked over 20,000 images generated using this tool. More than half showed women in “minimal clothing.” At least 2% appeared to include minors, some reportedly as young as toddlers.They were real individuals, digitally altered, and their images circulated without permission. The scale is new Non-consensual deepfake pornography has always disproportionately targeted women. Studies consistently show that over 96% of non-consensual AI-generated sexual content features female victims. What’s changed is speed and scale. AI has made this kind of abuse faster, cheaper, and harder to trace. What once required technical expertise can now be done with a single prompt and a photo pulled from social media. The violence may be digital, but the harm is intimate and enduring, especially for women, girls, and children. Victims have spoken about discovering deepfake images of themselves years after the original photos were taken. Some images are edited to make women appear younger. One survivor found sexualised images of her 14-year-old self circulating online. These images are used for ridicule, coercion, revenge, and blackmail. They are part of a long, familiar pattern of hidden cameras, revenge porn, and leaked videos, now re-engineered through AI. Governments are scrambling to respond. The UK’s communications regulator Ofcom has contacted the platform. The European Union has said it is “very seriously” investigating. France and India are tracking complaints and potential violations. In countries like the UK, laws already exist that criminalise non-consensual deepfakes, especially those involving children. Feminist campaigners fought hard to push those laws through. Yet survivors remain unprotected in practice, stuck in systems that prioritise corporate damage control over human safety. Grok’s response so far has been telling. The tool was moved behind a paywall, as if charging for access counts as a safety measure. A public statement about “urgent fixes” was reportedly generated by AI itself. Naming the harm matters This is tech-enabled sexual violence. It’s what happens when patriarchy gets re-coded into algorithms, fed by engagement metrics, and shielded by corporate language about innovation. When consent is optional in digital spaces, women’s bodies become endlessly reusable, scraped, altered, monetised. From “scandal” to accountability: Why lawmakers are stepping in On January 22, 2026, Paris Hilton walked into Capitol Hill alongside US representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez united by a demand that feels basic but radical in practice: make AI deepfake abuse legally actionable. They were there to push the DEFIANCE Act, legislation that would give survivors the civil right to sue people who knowingly create and distribute non-consensual AI-generated intimate images. That one word, sue, changes everything. Unlike takedown-focused laws such as the TAKE IT DOWN Act, the DEFIANCE Act is about consequences. It moves survivors out of a “report and pray” system and into one where harm carries real legal and financial cost. The bill has rare bipartisan backing, with Laurel Lee as the Republican co-lead and Senators Dick Durbin and Lindsey Graham supporting the push. The decision to bring it to a vote rests with Mike Johnson, Speaker of the United States House of Representatives. At its core, the bill asks a simple question: will consent online be enforceable, or will it remain a suggestion? Paris Hilton on rewriting the narrative Hilton’s presence matters because of what she represents. When an intimate video of her was distributed without consent at age 19, it was framed as a “scandal.” She has spent years insisting on a different word: abuse. “Scandal” blames the woman for being seen. “Abuse” names the violation, and the systems that enabled it. It reframes shame as something that belongs to perpetrators, platforms, and cultures that profit from humiliation. Why deepfake abuse works Deepfake pornography thrives because it weaponises social punishment. The image may be digital, but the consequences are brutally physical: fear, isolation, lost jobs, damaged reputations, teenagers switching schools, and women shrinking their lives to avoid being “made an example of.” This happens in a world where violence against women is already normalised. According to the World Health Organization, nearly 1 in 3 women globally experience physical and/ or sexual violence in their lifetime. So when people dismiss deepfakes as “just online,” they ignore the truth. That digital abuse plugs directly into offline inequality, and amplifies it. Why this moment matters The DEFIANCE Act matters because it treats non-consensual deepfakes for what they are: image-based sexual abuse. And it gives survivors leverage. If the cost of violating women remains low, this abuse will keep scaling. If the cost rises - legally, financially, socially - the business model breaks. That’s what accountability looks like. We were told AI would make life easier. Instead, we’re watching it replicate the oldest forms of harm at unprecedented speed. What’s at stake here is dignity. And it’s whether lawmakers, platforms, and the public are willing to say, clearly, that sexual violence doesn’t become acceptable just because it’s automated. And if this story makes you uncomfortable, that’s the point. Because silence is what lets systems like this grow, and real, enforceable accountability, is the only thing that stops them. 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

Union Budget 24 announced yesterday saw an increase of only 0.025 percent in funds allocated to DEPwD < Back Disability, News No mention of disability in budget 2024 speech Union Budget 24 announced yesterday saw an increase of only 0.025 percent in funds allocated to DEPwD MMS Staff 24 Jul 2024 3-min read The Union Budget 2025 was presented by the Finance Minister of India, Nirmala Sitharaman, yesterday, and left the country’s disabled community high and dry yet again. According to the PTI , the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) was allocated Rs 1,225.27 crore, a marginal increase from the previous year’s 1,225.01 crore. While disability activists were campaigning for at least a 5 percent allocation of the total union budget to the DEPwD, the current figures park the tally at a mere 0.025 percent of the total national budget for FY 2024-25. The figures add up to a Rs 12 lakh (USD 14,000) increase from last year’s total allocation. A substantial portion of the budget, amounting to Rs 615.33 crore, has been allocated to the National Program for the Welfare of Persons with Disabilities for this fiscal year. This despite the government outlining employment and skilling and social justice as two of the priority areas in the year’s budget. The Politics and Disability Forum put out a post on LinkedIn highlighting the disproportionately small share of the union budget allocated to the DEPwD given the large population of the country. “An analysis of specific allocation reveals further complications with this budget wherein the allocation for Scheme for Implementation of Person With Disabilities Act (SIPDA) has seen systematic decline over the years,” their post read. Disability rights groups and self-advocates, too, voiced their displeasure openly. “Over the years, I have always felt disappointed and spoken against the token mention of disability in budget speeches. This time, the Hon’ble Finance Minister took me too seriously. Disability wasn’t mentioned even once in the budget speech,” said disability rights advocate Nipun Malhotra in a post on LinkedIn. Dr Satendra Singh, disability rights activist, tweeted sarcastically, “Bravo, #Budget2024 ! Inclusive growth by completely forgetting people with disabilities, not even mentioning them once and giving a generous 0.025% of the budget to @socialpwds for our empowerment. Truly redefining #SocialJustice !” “Flagship programs like the Accessible India campaign are underfunded, resulting in missed targets and compromised accessibility. Reduced allocations for the Scheme for the Implementation of Persons with Disabilities Act (SIPDA) make the situation worse.,” wrote Danish Mahajan, founder of Radio Udaan, in a post on LinkedIn. The Scheme for the Implementation of Persons with Disabilities Act (SIPDA) has seen a decrease in budget allocation compared to the last fiscal. The National Platform for the Rights of the Disabled (NPRD) general secretary Muralidharan noted the reduction in support to autonomous bodies such as the National Institutes and the Rehabilitation Council of India, which play crucial roles in rehabilitation and education. He also highlighted the cut in scholarships for students with disabilities, which could force many to PwDs drop out of education. The release put out by the Politics and Disability Forum highlights the consistent underutilisation of allocated budget funds by the DEPwD. “The absence of Persons with Disabilities from this social justice dents the promise of inclusive growth towards Viksit Bharat 2047. A developed India without catering to its 7-8 percent of its population (sic) will only cause marginalisation of this minority,” the release read. The organisation has asked for increased investment in health insurance schemes for PwDs, specific budget allocations for disability across ministries, high-quality assistive aids, uniform state disability pensions, and long-term skill development programmes. Social sector highlights from Budget 2024-25: Youth Employment: ₹2 lakh crore allocated for job creation Agriculture: ₹1.52 lakh crore for agricultural development Women Empowerment: ₹3 lakh crore for women-focused schemes Urban Development: ₹10 lakh crore for housing and infrastructure Climate Resilience: Introduction of climate-resilient crops and new schemes Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Chris Martin and co’s latest “feelslikeimfallinginlove” celebrates love, representation, and environmental responsibility < Back News, Disability, Climate Coldplay’s new single ft sign language wins hearts globally Chris Martin and co’s latest “feelslikeimfallinginlove” celebrates love, representation, and environmental responsibility MMS Staff 4 Jul 2024 4-min read Seems like Coldplay has captured the hearts of millions yet again with their latest single, ‘Feels Like I’m Falling in Love.’ An ode to vulnerability and connection, the song - a Max Martin production - is the first release from Coldplay’s upcoming album Moon Music, set to drop on October 4. A historic setting for a modern message The music video for “feelslikeimfallinginlove” was shot at the ancient Odeon of Herodes Atticus in Athens, Greece. Directed by Ben Mor, who previously collaborated with the band on ‘Hymn For The Weekend’ featuring Beyoncé, the video features a blend of history and modernity. Fans were invited via the band’s social media to witness the shoot, making the experience inclusive and memorable. A step toward sustainability Upon its release, Moon Music will be available in various formats that adhere to new sustainability standards. Each vinyl copy will be made from nine recycled plastic bottles, and the CD version crafted from 90 percent recycled polycarbonate. These efforts are expected to reduce CO2 emissions in production by at least 78 percent and avoid the use of over five metric tonnes of virgin plastic. Representation matters The video for “feelslikeimfallinginlove” stars Natasha Ofili, who is well-known for her role as Principal Karen Vaughn in Ryan Murphy’s Netflix series The Politician. Ofili, who is Deaf, took charge of the video’s story and creative direction, incorporating her own American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation of the song throughout the video. Her performance is further enriched by the participation of Deaf members from the Venezuelan Sign Language section of El Sistema Venezuela’s Coro de Manos Blancas (White Hands Choir), supported by the Dudamel Foundation. One fan commented on their YouTube channel: “One reason why I love Coldplay so much: They make music for everybody.” Another fan wrote: “I’m a sign language teacher and my uncle is profoundly deaf from birth. I’ve grown up signing and have friends that are deaf. This video is so so beautiful and encapsulates the strength and emotion of sign language. Thank you Chris, Johnny, Will and Guy for not only being the best band ever with the most beautiful music, but for also genuinely caring and loving people. I know you guys probably won’t see this but I need you to know how much you’ve impacted my life and supported me through some dark times. You’re not appreciated enough for your talents and big hearts. Love you loads.” A global impact Coldplay frontman Chris Martin recently wowed fans in Singapore by incorporating sign language into his performance. This act of inclusion resonated deeply with the band’s Gen Z fans and sparked a wave of admiration for him across social media platforms. Coldplay’s efforts towards accessibility underscore the importance of representation in entertainment. By engaging with diverse communities and addressing social issues such as disability, the band sets a powerful example for youth worldwide. Add to that their commitment to sustainability, which inspires fans to embrace these values in their own lives. Something more role models need to consider doing. Looking ahead As Coldplay continue their European tour and prepare to headline Glastonbury for a record fifth time, their influence on music and social advocacy seems to be on a steady rise. With Moon Music, the industry is ushering in a new era of conscious creativity, where entertainment meets social responsibility. Watch the video below - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V3IVdLo-2NM Lyrics I know that this could hurt me bad I know that this could feel like that But I just can’t stop Let my defences drop I know that I was born to kill Any angel on my windowsill But it’s so dark inside I throw the windows wide I know La-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la I know La-la-la-la-la-la-la-la Still I don’t let go And fields of flowers grow Oh It feels like I’m falling in love Maybe for the first time Baby it’s my mind you blow It feels like I’m falling in love You’re throwing me a lifeline This is for a lifetime, I know I know that in this kind of scene Of two people there’s a spark between One gets torn apart, one gets a broken heart I know La-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la I know La-la-la-la-la-la-la-la Still I don’t let go And fields of flowers grow Oh It feels like I’m falling in love Maybe for the first time Baby it’s my mind you blow Feels like I’m falling in love You’re throwing me a lifeline This is for a lifetime, I know Feels like I’m falling in love You’re throwing me a lifeline Oh now for the first time I know I’m not alone Much much relate? 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