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Inconsistencies in India's assessment system prevents disabled representation in STEM fields < Back News, Disability, Education Disabled NEET candidates face challenges with college admissions Inconsistencies in India's assessment system prevents disabled representation in STEM fields MMS Staff 13 Jun 2024 3-min read In India, the road to becoming a medical professional is - to say the least - rigorous, demanding superlative academic excellence and resilience. But for candidates with disabilities, the challenges often go beyond academic difficulties; they deal with systemic inequities obstructing their rightful access to education. Today, Times of India carried a report on Lakshay Sharma, a visually impaired NEET-UG (National Eligibility cumulative Entrance Test) 2023 candidate, scoring an impressive 548 out of 720, which should have been a straightforward ticket to medical school under the disability reservation. But he was rejected during the counselling process at a hospital where he was incorrectly deemed ineligible for disability reservation due to perceived 0% vision. Simply speaking, they incorrectly assessed him as having no vision at all when in fact Sharma had valid disability certificates from JP Hospital, Bhopal, and AIIMS, New Delhi stating the contrary. It took an intervention from the chief commissioner for persons with disabilities (CCPwD) to straighten this out, ordering a reassessment at another eye centre, which correctly identified him as 40% disabled, confirming his eligibility for the reserved seat. Recurring challenges and advocacy for standardisation This is hardly a one-off incident. A lot of NEET candidates with disabilities face similar bureaucratic and medical oversights every year. Laxmi Chaudhary and Usman, two other disabled candidates, had similar experiences at hospitals only to be deemed eligible after reassessments. This highlights a pattern of inconsistency in the assessment process mandated by the National Medical Commission (NMC). Disability rights activists, along with disabled candidates, are now advocating for a standardisation of the disability assessment process, putting extra emphasis on the need to implement stringent guidelines that ensure fairness and accuracy in disability evaluations. Understanding the Unique Disability ID (UDID) certification process The Unique Disability ID (UDID) system was introduced in India in 2016 to streamline the identification and verification of persons with disabilities. The UDID serves as an identity document that contains relevant details about a person’s disability and/ or health condition, with the aim to eliminate the need for multiple documents and make it easier for card holders to avail benefits. To obtain a UDID, an individual must undergo a medical examination at a designated medical centre approved by the government. In the assessment, the medical board evaluates the type and extent of disability (usually determined in percentage), and a card is issued based on the findings from the test. This ID (called the UDID) has been put in place to allow for transparency and uniformity in the process of certification across the country. Proposals for reform Dr Satendra Singh, renowned disability rights activist and a person with disability, suggests the following reforms to safeguard the rights of disabled candidates: Video recording of assessments: To ensure transparency and accountability in assessments, all evaluations must be video recorded. Inclusion of doctors with disabilities: The presence of medical professionals who are themselves disabled on assessment panels can ensure more empathetic and accurate evaluations. #NothingAboutUsWithoutUs Penalties for non-compliance: Institutions deviating from standard protocols in the UDID certification process should face strict penalties. Historical challenges in STEM for disabled individuals Disabled people have long faced difficulties in pursuing careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. These challenges aren't just limited to physical accessibility; they include discriminatory attitudes as well as a lack of supportive resources that are essential for learning and working in these disciplines. The systemic barriers show up in various ways such as inadequate adaptive technology, insufficient training for faculty to address diverse needs, and a pervasive culture of low expectations from disabled students. To pave the way for true inclusivity, educational institutions, government bodies, and the multiple stakeholders in the medical space need to refine their approaches not just by limiting the extent of their involvement in these matters to merely compliance with legal requirements, but actively supporting and empowering all students. Disclaimer: the above image is AI generated and used for representational purposes only. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

This Pride month, our community reflects on embracing both neurodivergence and queerness < Back Community, Neurodiversity, LGBTQIA+ The significance of Pride for neurodivergent LGBTQIA people This Pride month, our community reflects on embracing both neurodivergence and queerness MMS Staff 21 Jun 2024 3-min read Every June, Pride Month celebrates the diversity and strength of the LGBTQIA+ community. But within this collective coming together, it's important to remember that Pride could mean different things for different people. The essence of Pride is the diverse voices and lived experiences it represents and stands by, particularly for those at the intersections of multiple identities — such as neurodivergence, disability and LGBTQIA+. To fully honour the spirit of Pride, we need to embrace an intersectional approach that acknowledges and addresses the varied and complex realities of the entire community. And so we asked our community to share what Pride means to them, as neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ folx. Here’s what #MuchMuchSays : Embracing my neurodivergence and queerness. Unmasking with people who feel like home! 💖 Saving my spoons by not engaging with people who are judgy, ableist or dull my sparkle ✨ - @aditigangrade_ Learning how both these parts of me overlap and create an unique experience for me. Finding a community with more neuro-queer folx. Trying to understand ways to better support myself in allistic spaces. - @ usri.be _ing In theory, I 💯 support everything Pride stands for. I’m queer, nonbinary and autistic. Neuroqueer is also how I describe myself. I advocate for neurodivergent LGBTQ+ people in my job, and I live the values of Pride year-round. But I live in San Antonio, Texas, where Pride is celebrated outdoors in the 100 degree F summer heat. That heat is dangerous for me because of my fibromyalgia and because of the meds I take. Even when the parade starts at 9 pm, it usually hasn’t cooled off that much. - @stardust_silkys Embracing yourself and everyone for who they are. Love my autism and my LGBTQ+ identity. Love has no limits. - @_irigeorge_iridizontas Celebrating love with understanding inclusive people (I'm in a straight marriage, but I love love and it should always be celebrated!). Showing my respect to those who have suffered from discrimination just for wanting to be loved and understood x - @debworth88 There are lots of ways of existing as a happy healthy human that isn’t the standard path society tells us are the norm - @peachnpumpkin Being actually included by queer groups 🥰🥰🥰 - @yagamilight3000 As a straight and cisgendered autistic man, I feel connected to other people who I think are also neurodivergent. I believe that the areas of the brain where sexual orientation and gender identity exist are their own distinct neurotypes. When someone isn’t straight or cisgender, those neurotype ares are the result of neurodivergent brain structures. While I don’t have the experiential empathy of being someone of the LGBTQIA+, I share a more generalized experience of not being what everyone wanted me to be and being misunderstood throughout my life; it’s from this that I can draw up empathy for LGBTQIA+ people. The must be treated with dignity, respect, compassion, understanding and visibility. - @bradcotter002 A proof that it is NOT illegal or “sinful” to love sby of your own gender or both!! 🥳🍾🎊🎉🏳️🌈💜💙 #itsokaytobegay 😎🌈 - @mariksen Rainbows and parties 🌈 🌈🌈😂 I don’t need a special month to live the “pride lifestyle”. - @_katbls_ Almost all of my neurospicy friends are queer.. theyre inextricably linked. There is pride in accepting our neurodivergence and our sexuality and gender identities. Its just another thing to celebrate and be proud of. To stand up for and speak out about. Let our voices be heard - @hanami_dango_ Pride is more than a celebration; it's a pivotal moment of visibility and acceptance for those who often navigate multiple layers of marginalisation. By listening to the voices of the neurodivergent LGBTQIA+ community and implementing inclusive practices, we can ensure that Pride is an empowering experience for everyone involved. PS: Our Community series stories are unedited for grammar or spelling, and posted as received on our socials. The original comments can be found on our Instagram . Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

The first report in a 3-part series based on #ChatterFest '23 < Back Diversity Equity Inclusion at Work The first report in a 3-part series based on #ChatterFest '23 Chatter Fest is a global inclusion festival where professionals, creatives, people with lived experience, and leaders from around the globe come together to discuss all things inclusion. Click below to download the report: MMS_DEI-at-work_ChatterFest-23_2024 .pdf Download PDF • 5.22MB WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link Much much relate? Share it now! < Back CAMPAIGNS

Demystifying Neurodiversity for families who are underprivileged with Ummeed CDC < Back Samjho aur Samjhao Demystifying Neurodiversity for families who are underprivileged with Ummeed CDC We developed this campaign in collaboration with Ummeed CDC, a Mumbai-based non-profit. One of the main reasons behind it was our research and social listening showed us that there is a significant lack of awareness and understanding about Autism and Down Syndrome in low-income and underprivileged communities in India. Existing resources are often not culturally or linguistically accessible to these families, and - in a lot of cases - not affirming enough. There is a dire need to address and correct common myths and misconceptions about developmental and intellectual disabilities. Data & existing perceptions: Studies and existing research indicates that awareness and acceptance of neurodiversity are low in India, especially in rural and low-income areas. Through social listening and interactions with our online community and families, we identified some specific myths and misconceptions prevalent in these communities, such as viewing Autism as bad behavior or believing Down Syndrome prevents access to a successful career. The insights: Many parents believe in the myth that Autism can be cured with traditional medicine or behavioral corrections. There's a prevailing misconception that children with Down Syndrome cannot lead successful professional lives. A significant number of families mourn the birth of a child with Down Syndrome, rather than celebrating the child’s birth. In a lot of families, mothers are blamed for the birth of a child with Down Syndrome, or an Autistic child. Our approach: Wanting to address Hindi-speaking low income families through easy-to-understand literature, we created a docket of illustrations, comics and stories that resonated with the lived experiences of Indian families. Our focus was on educational content that not only informed but also celebrated neurodiversity, highlighting strengths and capabilities. Apart from ensuring their use as physical fliers and print-outs to put up on pin boards at the center, we also uploaded these resources and content to multiple social media channels to ensure wide reach and engagement. Campaign objective & goals: To educate and raise awareness among low-income and underprivileged families about Autism and Down Syndrome. Goals: Demystify disabilities and bust common myths surrounding neurodivergent conditions. Provide culturally relevant resources. Engage and educate a wide audience. Challenges: Ensuring the content was culturally appropriate and sensitive. Making sure the information was accessible in Hindi, addressing the lack of affirming resources in regional languages. Solutions devised: Our narratives, language and campaign material were designed to speak to low-income families, families from tier1, 2, and 3 cities, and rural areas, as well as underprivileged Hindi-speaking families, and the general audience. All 10 stories put together as part of the campaign had positive and affirming messages about neurodiversity, focusing on strengths and capabilities. We addressed the specific myths that our research showed, and provided factual, easy-to-understand information about Autism and Down Syndrome. Deliverables: 3 x carousel posts (engaging illustrations & comics to engage the audience) 6 x static posts (graphical illustrations and explainers) Platforms: Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn: chosen for their wide reach and ability to engage diverse audiences Offline spaces: Resource kits were distributed at Ummeed CDC centers and events Length: The campaign ran consistently for a period of 3 months Content was released periodically to maintain engagement Impact: High engagement across social media platforms Consistent traction and sharing on WhatsApp and Facebook groups Overwhelmingly positive feedback from parents and caregivers Conclusion & learnings: Successfully raised awareness and educated target audience, effectively addressing cultural and language barriers Demonstrated the importance of culturally relevant and accessible content in driving engagement and education Way forward: Continue to create and share educational content t argeting more communities and regions, including other regional languages Partner with more organizations to amplify impact WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link Much much relate? Share it now! < Back CAMPAIGNS

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

A yearly inclusion fest that brings important people to talk topics that matter < Back Podcasts ChatterFest '23 (World Disability Day) A yearly inclusion fest that brings important people to talk topics that matter #ChatterFest '23 was a series of very important conversations that addressed disability and neurodiversity inclusion, accessibility, advocacy, representation and autonomy. Over 1 month, we had conversations with over 20 speakers across 10 organizations to unpack each of these themes, to celebrate World Disability Day ‘23. In this enlightening conversation, we explore the multifaceted aspects of employment for neurodivergent and disabled individuals. In this episode, we talk about everything that is required internally for DEI goals to be met and in creating a healthy and psychologically safe workplace. In this episode, we talk about all things in front of and behind the scenes that could enable neurodiversity inclusion in media and better disability and neurodiversity representation. In this episode, we talk about parenting, childhood, education, mental health, and support systems for children and adults with disabilities in India. In this episode, we talk about what it takes to make places affirming, welcoming, supportive, and understanding for neurodivergent, queer people and people from marginalised backgrounds and mental health challenges. In this episode, we talk about the role of multiple stakeholders in advertising, accessibility in branding, the importance of being inclusive in brand campaigns, why good representation matters, and some brands that have got it right. In this episode, we discuss the 3Cs approach to disability inclusion in India. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back ORIGINALS

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

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

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

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