Search Results

Fans reflect on the lasting impact of Linkin Park's music and Chester's legacy < Back Health, Media, Neurodiversity Remembering Chester Bennington: 7 years later Fans reflect on the lasting impact of Linkin Park's music and Chester's legacy MMS Staff 20 Jul 2024 2-min read July 20 marks seven years since the tragic, sudden death of Chester Bennington, the frontman of rock band Linkin Park. Bennington lived with a history of abuse and addiction, and had on many instances spoken openly about his depression. Many of Linkin Park’s songs were written by him, and allude to depressive thoughts and suicidal ideation. In this article from last year, Linkin Park rapper and Bennington's bandmate Mike Shinoda mentioned they were about his condition but "nobody knew the depths of it." "I've never heard such a crazy upbringing, such a crazy childhood. Like, running wild in the streets and doing hard drugs on the roof of his high school, just like barely staying out of jail. That's what made our dynamic what it was... He was outside because he was scrawny, he was like picked on, he was bullied all the time," Shinoda said. At the time of his death, reports also mentioned he had a hard time dealing with the suicide of his friend Chris Cornell, frontman of the band Soundgarden. Listen to Bennington's heartwarming eulogy to Cornell below: Bennington's difficult childhood experiences growing up, his parents' divorce, followed by rampant bullying in school caused him major emotional distress. He also grappled with substance abuse throughout his early adulthood and into his 20s, until he joined Linkin Park as lead vocalist and the band shot to fame with their 2000 album Hybrid Theory. The rest, as they say, is history. Bennington was found hanging in his CA home this day in 2017, survived by his wife Talinda and six children. A year after his passing, Talinda said in an interview about his depression: “I am now more educated about those signs, but they were definitely there: the hopelessness, the change of behaviour, isolation,” she told CNN during an interview with Anderson Cooper. On his seventh death anniversary, we spoke to some of our readers for whom Linkin Park and Chester’s music have been a constant companion through tough times. Swara Swami: As a kid, I was bullied heavily and it took a huge toll on me. And, listening to Linkin Park would help me channel all my aggression. Just listening to their music, their lyrics was a huge release. Pranav Sethi: I learned that poetry will make sense only when you start living those moments, those words will mean nothing to those who have not experienced any of it. That’s why poetry is so confusing for everyone. People don’t get it, they don’t understand because their experiences won’t allow them to grasp the meaning behind it. For many people around me they will never know the meaning of your songs nor will they understand the trauma I have lived through. I guess I connected with you so closely because I know we share a similar history. This tribute is a few years late but I guess I was figuring out what to say and how to say it. I guess I am breaking the habit tonight. Venkat Baliga: Being always at odds with the world, not understanding the ways of the world as a teen, the sheer rage towards bullies and people who constantly brought me down - 'Numb' made me feel like I wasn't alone. Now, after my autism and ADHD discovery, and understanding my mental health struggles, when I watch the music videos of Linkin Park and when I watch Chester Bennington sing (old videos), and observing the lyrics of most of their songs being so relatable - it all makes so much sense. Farhad Samiwalla: Hybrid Theory got me through some really tough times back when it came out. It was the first album that really hit me at the perfect time and every single song just spoke to where I was at mentally. Chester’s passionate screaming coupled with Mike’s poetic lyricism also blended so perfectly to express some really deep emotions. Allan D'souza: "Your friends all plead for you to stay Sometimes beginnings aren't so simple Sometimes goodbye's the only way" What is your favourite Linkin Park song/ lyric? Tell us in the comments below. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Nick Herd from Canada to make history at landmark disability conference COSP17 in New York < Back Disability, News Down syndrome actor-activist to be first disabled guest editor at UN News Nick Herd from Canada to make history at landmark disability conference COSP17 in New York MMS Staff 10 Jun 2024 2-min read Global disability advocate Nick Herd is set to make history as the first-ever guest editor for UN News. This development comes as the world convenes for the 17th session of the Conference of States Parties (COSP17) to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) in New York over June 11th, 12th and 13th. Herd, a passionate advocate for disability rights, said he is excited to use his platform to amplify the voices of people with disabilities around the world, in this story published on the UN News portal yesterday. This year's COSP17 focuses on critical themes including jobs, technology, and humanitarian responses in times of crisis, all viewed through the lens of disability inclusion. "I'm most looking forward to connecting with others and meeting people who care about the same things I do," Herd said, highlighting the importance of accessibility and inclusion, throwing back to how discussions at last year's COSP emphasised making things easier for people with disabilities. Herd, a member of the L'Arche community in Toronto - which “(works) with others to build a world where everyone belongs” - says: "Technology plays a crucial role in enhancing my life… from social media to communication apps, it lets me connect, communicate and comprehend information more easily." Herd also shared personal stories about how his work as a creative director, actor, and artist has been enriched by technology. Discussions at COSP17 will tackle significant challenges faced by people with disabilities, exploring issues such as how to overcome barriers to employment, ensure access to essential services during crises, and leverage technology for inclusion. Herd, whose animated film "Freebird" was long-listed for the 94th Academy Award, talks about how people with disabilities can excel in the workplace, stressing the importance of inclusion, collaboration, and self-expression in the job market. He highlights the vulnerability of people with disabilities in conflict zones, drawing from his experience with L'Arche communities in areas like Haiti and Ukraine. "Living a dignified life means having all the rights that make us human," Herd said. Encouraging everyone to join the conversation at COSP17, Herd added: “Let's work together to make sure everyone has the rights and opportunities we deserve. Tune in to the UN News live blog on Tuesday, June 11th, at 8 am to follow Herd's coverage. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Centre partners with institute for early integration of accessibility into education < Back Disability, News, Education IIT KGP to offer course on disability accessible design Centre partners with institute for early integration of accessibility into education MMS Staff 15 Jul 2024 2-min read Civil engineering students at Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur (IIT-KGP) will soon have the opportunity to study accessible building design, thanks to a new partnership between the Centre’s disability affairs department and the institute. This course - currently an elective - will be available to students in the sixth and seventh semesters starting from the 2024-25 academic session. Two professors from the institute’s Department of Architecture and Regional Planning, Subrata Chattopadhyay and Haimenti Banerjee, are reportedly working on developing the Accessible Built Environment course, along with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD). The course will cover such topics as smart and inclusive habitats, accessibility and infrastructure-driven liveability, and inclusive urban planning. The Centre subsequently plans to introduce the course in 27 other institutes, including other IITs. Presently, the course will carry 30 credits, and it aims to integrate accessibility into education early so that future engineers can incorporate it into their building designs. Accessible infrastructure - the need of the hour - still remains a distant dream in India despite the Rights for Persons with Disabilities Act of 2016 (RPwD Act) mandating all existing public buildings become accessible within five years of the passing of the act. Over the next three years, the course will be an elective at IIT-Kharagpur and will likely become a mandatory subject thereafter. Rajesh Aggarwal, Disability Affairs Secretary, emphasised the importance of this initiative, stating, “The objective is to integrate accessibility into education early so that students incorporate it into building design.” Previously, IIT-Kharagpur collaborated with the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) on the Building Accessible Safe and Inclusive Indian Cities (BASIIC) initiative. In addition to IIT-Kharagpur, the disability affairs department is in discussions with the Council of Architecture to include this subject in their curriculum as well. A senior official from IIT-Kharagpur highlighted the need for this course, saying, “Constructing accessible buildings needs experts and it is important that our future infrastructure builders have professional training about the same.” This initiative is part of the government’s Accessible India 2.0 campaign, which aims to achieve universal accessibility for persons with disabilities (PwDs). The Accessible India campaign focuses on making buildings and transport systems across the country accessible for people with disabilities. Under this campaign, access audits were conducted on 1,671 buildings across 48 cities, and retrofitting work has been sanctioned for 1,314 buildings, with 623 buildings already retrofitted in 20 states. The norms for retrofitting, as specified in section 44 of the Persons with Disabilities Act, include creating ramps in public buildings, modifying toilets for wheelchair users, and installing Braille symbols in elevators. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

No coaching. No resources. A state scheme and Collector backed Yogeshwari Selvam's IIT dream < Back Disability, Education, News From rural TN to IIT-B: Disabled girl to study aerospace engineering No coaching. No resources. A state scheme and Collector backed Yogeshwari Selvam's IIT dream MMS Staff 20 Jun 2025 3-min read When 17-year-old Yogeshwari Selvam from rural Tamil Nadu secured a seat in Aerospace Engineering at IIT Bombay, it was a revolutionary moment for India’s public education system. A disabled girl from a Tamil-medium government school, with no access to private coaching, cracking one of the country’s toughest entrance exams in her first attempt? In a landscape where structural disadvantage is often treated as personal failure, Yogeshwari’s story is one of what’s possible not when you “defy the odds,” but when the system starts to work. A spark in a small village Yogeshwari hails from Padanthal village in Virudhunagar district. Her father works in a tea stall, and her mother is employed in a fireworks factory, both part of Tamil Nadu’s working-class backbone that quietly sustains the state’s economy. Education was always a priority in the Selvam household. Her two older brothers made it through college, and Yogeshwari was determined to follow but with a dream that seemed impossibly distant: to study aerospace engineering. The spark came early. “I developed an interest in space during Class 7,” she says. “I didn’t even know what aerospace engineering meant exactly but I knew I wanted to study it.” It wasn’t until Class 12 that she even heard of the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE), the national-level entrance test required to enter the prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). “I got to know about JEE through the Kalloori Kanavu program,” she says, referring to a career awareness initiative under the Tamil Nadu government’s Naan Mudhalvan scheme, which introduces government school students to competitive exams, college streams, and career options. For Yogeshwari, it was a turning point. State support and 40 days of opportunity She was among the 230 students from government schools selected for specialised crash coaching funded by the Virudhunagar District Collector’s office. The classes were held in Erode, over a 40-day period after her plus-two exams. Until then, Yogeshwari had studied in Tamil medium and had never attended English-language instruction. “The training was in English. It was difficult in the beginning,” she admits. “But I picked it up little by little just by staying focused.” She secured the 75th rank under the Differently-Abled (OBC non-creamy layer) category in JEE (Advanced) and with it, a seat at IIT Bombay. Representation, not resilience Yogeshwari’s story is often framed as one of resilience. And it is. But it is also about representation of government school students, disabled students, rural girls, and Tamil-medium learners in elite Indian institutions that have historically excluded them. Yogeshwari credits District Collector VP Jeyaseelan for helping her realise this path was possible. Through the Coffee with Collector initiative, she and other students had the rare chance to meet a government official who treated their dreams with seriousness. “The Collector told us the State would take care of our education,” she says. “That made my parents more confident.” She also thanks Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin for launching schemes like Naan Mudhalvan, calling them a “boon for children from poor families.” But her journey is also a reflection of how much invisible labour students like her must still do, navigating caste, class, disability, and language barriers just to be seen as deserving of the same shot at excellence. Disability, not inability It’s worth noting that Yogeshwari is disabled, though most media coverage around her barely addresses this beyond a category label. In a system where disabled children are routinely segregated or written off, Yogeshwari’s admission into IIT is not a “miracle”. It’s a sign that when disabled students are included in mainstream education with proper support, they thrive. Disability-inclusive coaching, accessible content, and sensitivity training are still missing from many such interventions, a gap that Tamil Nadu’s education policy must now begin to address if it wants more Yogeshwaris to succeed. Looking to the skies What lies ahead for Yogeshwari? She speaks with confidence. “I want to work at ISRO one day,” she says. “Sunita Williams and Kalpana Chawla are my role models. If they can do it, so can I.” But she’s not chasing glory, she’s chasing possibility. And in doing so, she’s also become one: for millions of young girls across India who are told their dreams are too big for their village, their gender, their disability, or their mother tongue. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

From actor Vijay Varma to model Winnie Harlow, meet the artists using their skin as a canvas, not a flaw < Back Disability, Media What Is Vitiligo? Creators who show the world it’s nothing to hide From actor Vijay Varma to model Winnie Harlow, meet the artists using their skin as a canvas, not a flaw MMS Staff 25 Jun 2025 5-min read There’s something strange about growing up in a world that teaches you to fear your own skin. Not the metaphorical kind. The literal, surface-level, look-in-the-mirror-every-day kind. In a world obsessed with “flawless” skin, what happens when your skin tells a different story? Vitiligo, a condition that causes the skin to lose pigment in patches, affects roughly 1 per cent of the global population. And yet, it remains misunderstood, stigmatised, or, worse, erased. But that silence is breaking, and it’s breaking beautifully. Across film, fashion, TikTok, and spoken word, a growing wave of creators with vitiligo are refusing to shrink themselves to fit narrow standards of beauty. They’re not just embracing their skin, they’re turning it into art, activism, poetry, and power. This World Vitiligo Day, we spotlight five powerful voices who are changing what representation looks like, one unapologetic patch at a time. Vijay Varma: Not a secret, not a statement... just his skin Vijay Varma didn’t write a heartfelt Instagram caption about his vitiligo. He didn’t break the internet with a skin-positive photoshoot. He just mentioned it, casually, in an interview. “I used to worry when I was out of work,” he said. “Wondering if this condition would become a hurdle.” That’s it. No drama. No pity. Just a plain and simple bit of truth from someone in one of the world’s most appearance-obsessed industries. Vitiligo, for the uninitiated, causes patches of skin to lose their pigment. In showbiz, where continuity matters and faces are the product, even minor differences can be exaggerated into “problems.” So yes, Vijay covers his vitiligo while filming, not out of shame, but because he wants people to focus on the character, not the skin. But off-screen? He’s never hidden it. And that choice, to just exist with it, without apology, is revolutionary. In a world that often demands people with visible differences to either hide or turn into “inspiration,” Varma offers a third way: live, work, thrive, and let your skin be skin. Amara Aleman: Her skin became the canvas she needed Amara Aleman used to do everything she could to hide her vitiligo. Long sleeves in summer. Thick makeup. Staying indoors. Silence. That’s what living with vitiligo looked like for her when she was first diagnosed in 2017. She was isolated, anxious, and unsure if she'd ever feel comfortable in her own skin again. Then one day, she stopped trying to blend in... and started painting out. Amara, who now has over 300K followers on TikTok, is best known for turning her vitiligo patches into vibrant works of art. She calls them her “ArtSpots”, the lighter parts of her skin where pigment is missing. And she doesn’t just fill them in. She builds whole worlds on them. From floral patterns to Pride flag palettes, her body becomes a living, breathing canvas. She uses tattoo cover-up and body paint not to erase her skin, but to draw attention to it... on her own terms. The shift wasn’t just cosmetic. It was psychological. “Once I saw how positively it was affecting others with the condition,” she says, “the ideas really flourished.” What started as survival has now become art, community, and representation. In a world that says, “cover up,” Amara’s response is: watch me glow. Saja Kilani: A love letter to the skin she once tried to erase When Saja Kilani was younger, she hated her vitiligo. It made her feel different. Visible in the wrong ways. So she did what many people do when their skin doesn’t fit the beauty standard... she tried to change it. Specifically, through medical tattooing, a process meant to recolour the skin and blend the patches back in. It didn’t work. And years later, instead of hiding from that experience, Saja wrote a poem about it. ‘Dear Vitiligo’ isn’t just a poem. It’s a turning point. In it, the Palestinian-Jordanian-Canadian actress speaks directly to the skin she once rejected. It’s tender, powerful, and painful. It’s also necessary. In the accompanying film, Saja collaborates with a makeup artist and photographer not to hide her vitiligo, but to showcase it. Her patches are painted around, highlighted, celebrated. For once, she controls the lens. The most unexpected reaction came from her cousin’s eight-year-old daughter. After watching the video, the little girl said: “I wish I had vitiligo too.” For Saja, that moment felt like closure. Today, she isn’t just reclaiming her skin. She’s offering language, softness, and agency to others who might still be in hiding. Her message is simple: “You can choose whether your condition is your insecurity. Or not.” Winnie Harlow: Done being the “Model with Vitiligo” Winnie Harlow’s story has been told a hundred times. But rarely on her terms. Yes, she has vitiligo. Yes, she was bullied as a kid. Yes, she became the first person with the condition to walk the Victoria’s Secret runway, to front major campaigns, to appear on magazine covers. But if you listen to her, that’s not the part she wants to be known for. “I’ve lived a full life,” she says. “And honestly, I’ve dealt with way worse things than my skin.” Still, the world wants her to play a specific role: the girl who overcame adversity to become beautiful. She’s over it. Winnie credits her Jamaican upbringing, especially her mother, for giving her the confidence to exist in a world that told her she didn’t fit. That confidence carried her through bullying, rejection, and eventually into fashion and entrepreneurship. After suffering a severe sunburn on a photoshoot (because no one wanted sunscreen to “ruin” the shot), she created Cay Skin, a brand built for skin like hers: melanin-rich, sensitive, often ignored by the mainstream. Winnie’s goal now is to stop being “the model with vitiligo.” She wants to write children’s books. To build brands. To create spaces for Black women to lead. As she puts it: “My skin has been one of my greatest gifts. It taught me to be louder, prouder, and to see beyond my own cover, and everyone else’s too.” What Is Vitiligo? And why does it matter? Vitiligo is a chronic condition where the skin loses melanin, the pigment responsible for colour. It can affect any part of the body: face, hands, scalp, and even the inside of the mouth. The cause is still unclear, but researchers believe it’s linked to autoimmune responses, genetics, and environmental triggers. And while it isn’t dangerous, the emotional impact -thanks to society’s obsession with uniform skin - can be deep and lasting. Which is why stories like these matter. This is what representation really looks like The people featured in this piece aren’t brave despite their skin; they’re powerful with it. They’re not here to inspire you for pity likes. They’re showing up to expand the frame of what’s seen as beautiful, desirable, professional, and worthy. They’re creators. Models. Actors. Entrepreneurs. They’re also - sometimes - people who’ve cried in bathrooms, dodged stares, or tried to disappear. But today, they are choosing to be visible. And in doing so, they’re making space for all of us to show up in our full, imperfect glory too. If you’ve ever felt different because of your skin, your body, your face, this is your reminder: your story is not a flaw. It’s a feature. Let it be seen. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Recent study reveals how AI ranks resumes with disability-related credentials lower < Back Work, Disability Disabled job seekers disadvantaged by AI bias in hiring Recent study reveals how AI ranks resumes with disability-related credentials lower MMS Staff 23 Jun 2024 5-min read The use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT in resume screening is becoming increasingly common among recruiters. And a recent study by researchers at the University of Washington has uncovered a significant issue: AI tools can be biassed against resumes that imply a disability. This finding has profound implications for disability inclusion and rights, as it highlights how technological advancements can inadvertently reinforce existing prejudices. The study and its findings This research, presented at the 2024 ACM FAccT (Conference on Fairness, Accountability, and Transparency) investigated how ChatGPT ranked resumes with disability-related credentials. Led by Kate Glazko, a doctoral student at the UW's Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering, the study found that resumes with disability-related accolades — such as the "Tom Wilson Disability Leadership Award" — were consistently ranked lower than identical resumes without these credentials. Worse - when the AI was asked to explain its rankings, it revealed biassed perceptions of disabled individuals. For example, a resume with an autism leadership award was said to have "less emphasis on leadership roles," pushing the stereotype that autistic individuals are not capable leaders. Attempting to mitigate bias The researchers attempted to mitigate this bias by customising the AI with instructions to avoid ableism. While this approach reduced bias for five of the six disabilities tested (deafness, blindness, cerebral palsy, autism, and the general term "disability"), only three disabilities saw an improvement in rankings compared to resumes without any mention of disability. "Ranking resumes with AI is starting to proliferate, yet there's not much research behind whether it's safe and effective," said Glazko, the study's lead author. "For a disabled job seeker, there's always this question when you submit a resume of whether you should include disability credentials. I think disabled people consider that even when humans are the reviewers." Fair point. "In a fair world, the enhanced resume should be ranked first every time," said senior author Jennifer Mankoff, a UW professor in the Allen School. "I can't think of a job where somebody who's been recognized for their leadership skills, for example, shouldn't be ranked ahead of someone with the same background who hasn't." When researchers asked GPT-4 to explain the rankings, its responses exhibited explicit and implicit ableism. For instance, it noted that a candidate with depression had "additional focus on DEI and personal challenges," which "detract from the core technical and research-oriented aspects of the role." "Some of GPT's descriptions would colour a person's entire resume based on their disability and claimed that involvement with DEI or disability is potentially taking away from other parts of the resume," Glazko said. "For instance, it hallucinated the concept of 'challenges' into the depression resume comparison, even though 'challenges' weren't mentioned at all. So you could see some stereotypes emerge." Implications for disability inclusion and rights These findings are troubling for several reasons. First, they reveal that AI tools can reinforce biases, undermining efforts to promote disability inclusion and rights. If AI tools are used to screen resumes, disabled candidates may be unfairly disadvantaged, even if they possess the necessary qualifications and leadership skills. Second, the study underscores the broader issue of how technological advancements can replicate and amplify real-world biases. AI systems learn from existing data, which often contain historical biases and ableist notions. Without careful oversight and correction, these systems can push, and even worsen existing, discriminatory practices. Challenges disabled people face in finding meaningful employment Disabled individuals face numerous barriers when seeking employment, including: Biassed hiring practices, discrimination, and being faced with stereotypes about disabilities. Many workplaces are not fully accessible, creating physical and technological barriers for disabled employees. There are often fewer job opportunities made available for disabled individuals, particularly in competitive fields. Employers may be unwilling or unable to provide necessary accommodations, such as flexible working hours or assistive technologies. Negative attitudes and misconceptions about disabilities can affect workplace interactions and professional development opportunities. Tips for employers to promote fair and inclusive hiring To ensure fairness and inclusivity in hiring and promoting, employers can take the following steps: Provide bias training for hiring managers and staff to recognize and counteract biases. Write inclusive job descriptions that emphasise essential skills and competencies rather than unnecessary physical requirements. Ensure that job application processes are accessible to all candidates, including those with disabilities. Offer reasonable accommodations during the hiring process and in the workplace. Use diverse hiring panels to reduce individual biases and ensure a variety of perspectives in the hiring process. Clearly define and communicate the criteria for hiring and promotion, focusing on skills, experience, and potential rather than assumptions about disability. Provide ongoing support and development opportunities for disabled employees to thrive in their roles. Implement feedback mechanisms to allow disabled employees to voice concerns and suggest improvements. The nullification of disability inclusion and rights The use of biassed AI in resume screening effectively nullifies inclusion efforts towards communities that have historically been marginalised and their identities stigmatised. Disabled individuals already face numerous barriers in the job market, and AI tools that perpetuate age-old bias just adds another layer of discrimination. Something we don’t need at all. This issue is particularly concerning given the increasing reliance on AI in hiring processes. A fair scenario would include resumes that highlight leadership skills and achievements — whether related to disability or not — be ranked based on the candidate's qualifications and potential. The fact that AI tools can diminish the value of disability-related credentials is a reminder that technological solutions must be developed and implemented with a strong emphasis on fairness and inclusivity. Ensuring fairness in AI To address these issues, it is crucial for developers, researchers, and companies to prioritise fairness in AI development. This includes: Conducting regular audits of AI systems to identify and correct biases. Ensuring that training data includes diverse representations of disabled individuals and their achievements. Providing clear guidelines to AI systems on avoiding ableism and other forms of discrimination. Incorporating human oversight in the resume screening process to catch and address biases that AI may miss. By taking these steps, we can work towards a future where AI tools contribute to, rather than hinder, disability inclusion and rights. Ensuring that technological advancements promote fairness and equality is essential for building a more inclusive society. More information: Kate Glazko et al, Identifying and Improving Disability Bias in GPT-Based Resume Screening, The 2024 ACM Conference on Fairness, Accountability, and Transparency (2024). DOI: 10.1145/3630106.3658933 This article was originally published on Techxplore.com Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Here's your list of heartwarming tales of inclusion for the holidays < Back Disability, Media, Neurodiversity Holiday movies & shows with disability portrayal you must watch Here's your list of heartwarming tales of inclusion for the holidays MMS Staff 26 Dec 2024 3-min read The holiday season is a time for joy, reflection, and gathering around stories that warm the heart. For many in the disability community, representation in these stories can be especially meaningful. This list highlights films and shows that affirm disability as part of the human experience, celebrating inclusion and offering nuanced portrayals that enrich the festive season. Christmas Ever After (2020) This romantic comedy stars Ali Stroker, a Tony-winning actor who uses a wheelchair, as Izzi Simmons, a romance novelist spending the holidays in a small-town inn. Izzi’s disability is not a plot point to overcome but an integral and affirming aspect of her character. The film’s joyful tone and authentic representation challenge stereotypes, offering a love story that centers a disabled woman’s agency and vibrancy. The Family Stone (2005) Thad Stone, a deaf and gay character, is portrayed as a vital and cherished member of his family in this ensemble holiday film. His relationship with his partner, Patrick, is depicted with warmth and normalcy, emphasizing the richness of intersectional identities. The inclusion of sign language and the film’s focus on family acceptance make it a thoughtful and affirming holiday story. Wonder (2017) Wonder shares the journey of Auggie Pullman, a boy with a craniofacial condition, as he navigates a new school environment. The film affirms Auggie’s worth and humanity by centering his resilience, while also showcasing the importance of community and kindness. Its celebration of difference and its message of empathy make it an inspiring watch for the holiday season. Snow Cake (2006) Set in a snowy Canadian town, Snow Cake features Sigourney Weaver as Linda, an autistic woman whose life intersects with that of a grieving stranger. Linda’s autism is portrayed as a fundamental part of her identity, highlighting her independence and unique perspective. The film’s winter setting and themes of connection and healing resonate deeply during the holidays, offering a compassionate and nuanced portrayal of disability. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964) This animated classic serves as an allegory for disability and societal exclusion. Rudolph’s red nose, initially viewed as a flaw, becomes his strength, mirroring the experiences of many disabled individuals. The Island of Misfit Toys reflects a world where difference is isolated, yet ultimately celebrated. The story’s affirmation of individuality and its heartwarming resolution remain timeless. Miracle on 34th Street (1947) & (1994) These beloved films explore themes of belief, acceptance, and understanding, resonating with disabled audiences through their broader message of valuing individuality. While not explicitly about disability, the characters’ journeys challenge societal norms, advocating for inclusion and empathy. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) This iconic holiday film subtly addresses disability through Harry Bailey, who loses his hearing as a child. More broadly, the story’s message — that every life has value and impact — aligns with disability affirming principles. By celebrating interconnectedness and community, the film underscores the importance of recognizing everyone’s contributions. Last Christmas (2020) This romantic drama centers on Kate, a young woman living with a chronic heart condition. The film portrays her illness as part of her reality rather than a source of pity, emphasizing her journey toward self-acceptance and connection. By integrating humor, romance, and personal growth, Last Christmas offers an empowering narrative of resilience. Carol of the Bells (2019) This poignant drama focuses on a man reconnecting with his birth mother, who has Down syndrome. Featuring actors with disabilities, the film affirms the inherent value and dignity of all its characters. Its authentic performances and themes of forgiveness and family make it a powerful and affirming holiday story. Klaus (2019) This animated gem includes a Deaf character who communicates through sign language, woven naturally into the story’s tapestry. The film’s themes of kindness, transformation, and community resonate deeply, offering an inclusive and visually stunning holiday experience. This Is Us (2016 – 2022) This critically acclaimed series features Jack Damon, a blind musician, as a central character. Through its holiday episodes, the show explores family, accessibility, and resilience, presenting disability as a natural part of life. Jack’s journey affirms the richness of diverse lived experiences, making This Is Us an emotionally resonant choice for the season. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

June is Aphasia awareness month. Here’s a guide to living with aphasia < Back Health, Disability What is Aphasia - An inclusive guide to understanding the condition June is Aphasia awareness month. Here’s a guide to living with aphasia MMS Staff 3 Jun 2024 4-min read June, recognized globally as Aphasia Awareness Month, presents an opportunity to delve deep into this communication disorder. Aphasia affects a person's ability to communicate but does not impair their intelligence. This guide aims to enhance understanding of aphasia, share insights from those directly affected, and offer supportive measures for those looking to help. What is aphasia? Aphasia is a condition resulting from damage to the language-processing regions of the brain, leading to varying degrees of difficulty in speaking, understanding, reading, and writing. It can be triggered by strokes, head injuries, tumors, or progressive neurological disorders. Types of Aphasia Aphasia is classified into several types, each affecting different aspects of communication: Broca’s Aphasia: Characterized by slow, halting speech and difficulties in forming sentences, though comprehension might remain intact. Wernicke’s Aphasia: Where individuals might speak in long sentences that lack meaning, and comprehension is often impaired. Global Aphasia: The most severe form, combining extensive speaking and understanding difficulties . Primary progressive Aphasia: Gradual loss of language capabilities associated with neurodegenerative diseases. Related conditions Aphasia often coexists with other speech-related disorders, highlighting the complexity of brain-based communication issues: Dysarthria: Difficulty in articulating words due to weakened muscles. Apraxia: Inability to perform learned movements despite the desire and physical capability to perform them. Signs and symptoms of Aphasia Recognizing the signs of aphasia can help in seeking timely intervention. Common symptoms include: Impaired speech: Difficulty in articulating words, using incorrect words, or constructing sentences that sound different or difficult to comprehend. Understanding difficulties: Trouble comprehending spoken conversations or written text. Repetition challenges: Struggling to repeat phrases or words, often producing unintended sequences. Naming problems: Difficulty in naming objects, known as anomia, which is often frustrating for the individual. Social withdrawal: Due to communication challenges, individuals may withdraw from social interactions to avoid embarrassment or frustration. Diagnosis of Aphasia Diagnosing aphasia involves a thorough assessment by healthcare professionals, often including: Physical exams and cognitive tests: To rule out other causes of communication issues. Imaging tests: Such as MRI and CT scans to identify brain damage. Speech-language evaluations: To determine the type and extent of language impairment. Lived experiences The journey of living with aphasia is unique for each person. Many describe the profound frustration and isolation they feel when they cannot communicate their thoughts or understand what others are saying. Participation in social gatherings can become daunting, and professional lives can be severely disrupted. Community forums and blogs often highlight the emotional and psychological toll aphasia can take, underscoring the importance of empathy and understanding from everyone around. "I've noticed issues with my communication since I was 14 — mixing up sentences or saying unintended words. It's become more pronounced now, and it makes me hesitant to speak out of embarrassment,” a Reddit user shares. "Having lived with aphasia since childhood, it became starkly apparent when I started speaking gibberish during a professional call. It took years and a severe incident to begin researching my condition earnestly," says another Reddit user. How common is Aphasia? Globally, millions are affected by Aphasia, though exact prevalence is hard to pinpoint due to varying degrees and causes. It's most commonly associated with middle-aged and older individuals, particularly those who have experienced a stroke. How to support someone with Aphasia Effective communication with a person with aphasia requires patience and creativity: Patience in conversation: Allow individuals with aphasia the time they need to express themselves without interrupting or correcting them. Use of visual aids: Visual aids such as pictures, gestures, and writing can help facilitate better understanding. Consistent engagement: Regular conversation, even if challenging, helps people with aphasia retain their communication skills and feel valued. Adaptation of communication style: Speak in simple, concise sentences and confirm understanding to ensure clarity in communication. Encouragement of social interaction: Encourage their involvement in social activities to prevent isolation and promote mental health. Professional support: Speech and language therapy can greatly benefit those with aphasia. Therapists use specialized techniques to help improve language skills and recommend communication strategies tailored to individual needs. Support groups: Both online and in-person to share experiences and coping strategies. Community and technology support Technology, too, plays a crucial role, with various apps and software designed to assist communication. Community support groups, both online and offline, provide essential emotional support and practical advice for living with aphasia. Management and treatment While there is no cure for aphasia, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving communication: Speech therapy: Helps regain language skills and learn new ways to communicate.| Medications and surgery: For underlying causes like strokes or tumors. Family involvement: Educating loved ones on effective communication strategies. Conclusion Aphasia, while challenging, does not define a person’s intellect or potential. With proper support, understanding, and medical attention, individuals with aphasia can continue to lead fulfilling lives. 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

An explainer series that demystifies neurodiversity & disability for a broad-based audience < Back Explainers The Chatter An explainer series that demystifies neurodiversity & disability for a broad-based audience The Chatter is hosted by Aditi Gangrade, Co-founder Much Much Media, filmmaker, entrepreneur, creator, and an Indian neurodivergent self-advocate. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eUBBkYKgc0g कई लोग ऑटिस्टिक लोगों को कहते हैं "लेकिन आप ऑटिस्टिक दिखते नहीं"। इस विडीओ में जानिए ऑटिज़म के बारे में ऐसे 6 सच जिनके बारे में ज़्यादा बात नहीं होती। इस एपिसोड में हम लेट डाइयग्नोस्ड ऑटिस्टिक अडल्ट्स के बारे में बात करेंगे। यह जानना ज़रूरी है कि ऑटिज़म दिखायी देने वाली डिसबिलिटी नहीं है। https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1isBtu1EhOA कई लोग हमें कॉमेंट्स में पूछते है कि उनके ऑटिस्टिक बच्चे कब बोलना शुरू करेंगे। इस विडीओ में हम बात करेंगे कम्यूनिकेशन के अलग अलग तरीक़ों पर और आपके इन ही कुछ सवालों का जवाब देंगे। https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cCAbi2_GKR8 इस एपिसोड में हम ऑटिज़म के बारे में सभी अफ़वाहों और मिथ्याओं के बारे में बात करेंगे। ऑटिज़म के बारे सभी सही जानकारी के लिए ये विडीओ पूरा देखें और अपने दोस्त, परिवार, कॉलीग्ज़ के साथ शेयर करें। Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back ORIGINALS

An open letter by one of our readers to their mom < Back Parenting, Neurodiversity Dear mom, thank you for celebrating my Autism An open letter by one of our readers to their mom Shaily (they/them) 25 May 2024 2-min read Dear Mom, I want to take a moment to share how much your love and support have meant to me. Growing up autistic wasn't always easy, but you made sure I had the best possible environment to thrive. Your efforts to understand and support me were invaluable, and I want you to know just how much they've shaped my life. You knew that understanding autism was key to helping me, so you dedicated yourself to learning about it. You took the time to understand my unique traits and how autism manifested in me. Instead of trying to change me, you celebrated my individuality and embraced the fact that being autistic is a part of who I am. That acceptance meant everything to me. Communication was another area where you truly shined. You realized that I had different ways of expressing myself and you adapted. Whether it was using visual supports, social stories, or technology, you found ways to help me communicate comfortably. Your patience and willingness to meet me where I was made all the difference. You also understood how overwhelming sensory overload could be for me. You created sensory-friendly spaces at home with dim lighting, soft textures, and noise reduction. These spaces became my sanctuary where I could recharge and feel safe. Your thoughtful design of our home environment showed how much you cared about my comfort. Your advocacy was relentless. Whether it was at school, during extracurricular activities, or in public spaces, you made sure my needs were met. You fought for accommodations and ensured I had the support necessary to succeed. Your determination paved the way for my growth and development, and I can't thank you enough for that. Routines and structure were crucial for me, and you recognized that. You established predictable schedules and clear expectations, which provided stability and reduced my anxiety. Knowing what to expect each day helped me navigate life with greater ease. Social interactions can be tough for someone like me, but you facilitated opportunities that were tailored to my comfort level. You encouraged friendships with understanding peers and organized inclusive activities. Thanks to you, I was able to develop social skills and form meaningful connections. You also taught me the importance of self-care. You modeled healthy coping strategies and encouraged me to engage in activities that brought me joy. You made sure to take care of yourself too, which was crucial for maintaining a positive and supportive environment at home. Above all, your unconditional love and support have been the foundation of my growth. Your belief in my abilities, even during the toughest times, gave me the courage to embrace my autistic identity with confidence. Your support has been my constant source of strength. Thank you, Mom, for everything you've done and continue to do. I hope other autism parents learn from you. I wish there was better support for you too. With all my love, Shaily Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS