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Landmark decision grants official recognition to chosen identity, a milestone for transgender rights < Back Gender, LGBTQIA+, News Govt approves trans officer’s chosen name & gender for records Landmark decision grants official recognition to chosen identity, a milestone for transgender rights MMS Staff 11 Jul 2024 2-min read In a groundbreaking move, the Government of India has approved a transgender civil service officer's request to remove his deadname from official records and replace it with his chosen name. On Tuesday, July 9, the Ministry of Finance issued an order approving the name change of Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer M Anukathir Surya. Deadname refers to the name a person used before their transition while chosen name refers to the person’s name after their transition. Anukathir Surya, an officer of the 2013 batch of the Customs and Indirect Taxes (C&IT) department, currently serves as Joint Commissioner in the office of the Chief Commissioner (AR) of the Customs Excise & Service Tax Appellate Tribunal (CESTAT) in Hyderabad. This development marks a milestone in his career and a progressive step toward inclusivity within government institutions. Surya's journey in civil service began as an Assistant Commissioner in the Central Board of C&IT in Chennai. He was promoted to Deputy Commissioner in 2018, and in 2023, he joined CESTAT in Hyderabad. Surya hails from Tamil Nadu and holds a Bachelor's degree in Electronics and Communication from the Madras Institute of Technology. In 2023 he completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Cyber Law and Cyber Forensics from the National Law Institute University, Bhopal. This development comes nearly a decade after the Supreme Court's landmark ruling in the NALSA case, which recognised the third gender. Emphasising that gender identity is a personal choice and that transgender individuals must not be denied basic human rights, the Court’s ruling stated: ‘The Constitution has fulfilled its duty of providing rights to transgenders. Now it's time for us to recognize this and to extend and interpret the Constitution in such a manner as to ensure a dignified life for transgender people.’ The judgement noted: If a person has changed his/ her sex in tune with his/ her gender characteristics and perception, which has become possible because of the advancement in medical science, and when that is permitted in medical ethics with no legal embargo, we do not find any impediment, legal or otherwise, in giving due recognition to the gender identity based on the reassigned sex after undergoing surgery. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

Rare Beauty’s new fragrance bottle was designed to look good - and be used by more people < Back Disability, News Selena Gomez just showed the beauty of accessibility. Are brands listening? Rare Beauty’s new fragrance bottle was designed to look good - and be used by more people MMS Staff 13 Sept 2025 3-min read When Selena Gomez released her new Rare Beauty fragrance, it wasn’t just the scent that made headlines, it was the bottle. Designed with input from a hand therapist, the bottle is shaped for easy grip, with a spray mechanism that requires minimal pressure. It was created specifically to support people with limited hand mobility, including those with arthritis, chronic pain, or autoimmune conditions like lupus. For many fans, especially those living with disabilities or chronic illnesses, this wasn’t just a thoughtful design. It was a powerful message: you matter. Selena’s lived experience shaped the design Selena Gomez has been open about her own struggles with lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease that affects joints and mobility, and her bipolar disorder diagnosis, which she publicly shared in 2020. Her willingness to speak candidly about mental health and chronic illness has made her one of the few global celebrities to consistently platform invisible disabilities. This fragrance launch feels like an extension of that advocacy — not through words, but through design. It’s what happens when lived experience leads product development. And in a world where so many disabled consumers are forced to adapt to inaccessible products, Selena flipped the script. Rare Beauty adapted for them. Inclusive design is smart business, not charity Accessibility is often misunderstood as a niche concern or a compliance checkbox. But the numbers tell a different story. Over 1.3 billion people globally live with a disability. When you factor in their families, caregivers, and allies, that represents a community with an estimated $13 trillion in annual spending power, according to the World Economic Forum. This is not a small market. It’s a massive, often ignored one. What Selena and Rare Beauty understand - much like Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty before them - is that inclusion sells. Fenty’s 2017 launch with 40 foundation shades wasn’t just a cultural moment, it was a commercial gamechanger, pulling in over $100 million in 40 days. Why? Because it reflected a truth most brands had ignored: when you design for more people, more people buy your product. Gen Z and millennials expect values-driven brands Today’s younger consumers aren’t just shopping based on aesthetics or trend cycles. According to a McKinsey report, 73% of Gen Z and 66% of Millennials actively support brands that align with their values. They expect brands to take stands on mental health, social justice, environmental impact, and yes - accessibility. When Rare Beauty launches a fragrance bottle that works for people with mobility impairments, it’s not just serving a customer - it’s building trust. That’s what creates long-term loyalty in a saturated market. Accessibility can’t stop at the product But there’s still one major place where brands drop the ball: the digital experience. According to AudioEye’s 2025 Digital Accessibility Index, which analysed over 15,000 websites, there are an average of 297 accessibility errors per page - from unlabelled buttons and missing alt-text to checkout pages that break under screen readers. And the fallout is real. A Purple Pound study in the UK found that 83% of disabled consumers limit their shopping to websites they know are accessible. 71% abandon a website entirely if they encounter access barriers. That means brands can pour money into accessible products, only to lose customers at the homepage. Selena’s fragrance Is a blueprint for the future Selena Gomez didn’t frame accessibility as a bonus feature. She framed it as good design. The Rare Beauty fragrance is chic and inclusive - without sacrificing aesthetics or elegance. This is the future of inclusive branding: where accessibility is not performative or pity-driven, but integrated into every touchpoint - from packaging to websites to marketing. And it’s a reminder that when people with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or neurodivergent experiences lead the conversation, the end result isn’t “niche". It’s better for everyone. We believe that accessibility isn’t a trend. It’s a requirement, a reflection of who we are, and who’s being left out. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

In India, awareness about dyslexia is growing, but there is still a long way to go. < Back Neurodiversity, LGBTQIA+, Health Living with Dyslexia: My journey as a dyslexic lesbian author in India In India, awareness about dyslexia is growing, but there is still a long way to go. K Vaishali 31 May 2024 5-min read I’m K Vaishali, the author of 'Homeless: Growing Up, Lesbian and Dyslexic in India.' My journey has been filled with challenges, many of which stem from being diagnosed late with dyslexia and dysgraphia at the age of 20. This diagnosis came after years of struggling to understand why I found certain tasks so difficult. What is dyslexia? Dyslexia is a common learning disorder characterized by difficulties with reading, spelling, and writing. It affects the brain's ability to process written and spoken language, making it challenging for individuals to decode words and comprehend text. Dysgraphia, often associated with dyslexia, involves difficulties with handwriting and fine motor skills. According to the Dyslexia Association of India, approximately 10-15% of the population is affected by dyslexia, though many remain undiagnosed. My first memory of struggling with dyslexia dates back to the fourth standard when I received very low marks in a math exam. I had left many questions half-answered, a common issue for dyslexic students who may not realize they haven’t finished their tasks. Repeated spelling mistakes, such as writing "cost" as "coast," were frequent and often led to harsh reprimands from teachers and adults who thought I wasn’t trying hard enough. Tasks that were simple for others, like tying shoelaces or fastening my school tie, were huge challenges for me. I often got into trouble at school for these issues, which made me feel even more inadequate and frustrated. A particularly difficult period was in the seventh standard when my family moved from Chennai to Bombay. I had to switch from Tamil to Hindi as my second language. For a dyslexic person, learning multiple scripts—Tamil, English, and Hindi—was incredibly challenging. Tamil and Hindi, being completely different scripts, made this transition even harder. I remember attending tuition classes where my teacher would give me a second standard Hindi textbook. Struggling to read, I would underline long words and ask for their meanings, not realizing that underlining a character’s name was puzzling to my teacher. My undiagnosed dyslexia led to repeated academic failures. I flunked the seventh standard and had to repeat the year. Eventually, I switched to Sanskrit, which started from the basics and allowed me to pass. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ausLPy9xZvw Myths and misconceptions Dyslexic individuals often face numerous myths and misconceptions, such as: Myth: Dyslexia is a sign of low intelligence. Reality: Dyslexia is unrelated to intelligence; many dyslexic individuals possess high creativity and problem-solving skills. Myth: Dyslexic people are lazy or not trying hard enough. Reality: Dyslexic individuals often work harder than their peers to achieve the same level of understanding and proficiency. Myth: Dyslexia can be outgrown. Reality: Dyslexia is a lifelong condition, but with the right support and strategies, individuals can successfully manage its challenges. Despite these challenges, adult life brought its own set of difficulties. I couldn’t complete my bachelor’s degree and struggled with various professional courses. I worked as an auditor but constantly mixed up numbers in balance sheets, a mistake that is unacceptable in that profession. Realizing that accountancy was not for me, I attempted a master’s in economics, only to discover that my difficulties with graphs and numbers persisted. It was only when I pursued a degree in communication that I found a path I could navigate. Writing became my outlet, and I authored my book. My journey has been isolating, with school being an especially unsafe space. Teachers misinterpreted my struggles as an attitude problem, and my dyslexia led to an eating disorder, causing anxiety before exams. I would binge eat months before exams, leading to weight gain and further bullying at school. Eating disorder involve complex relationships with food and body image, often manifesting as behaviors like binge eating, strict dieting, or purging. These are serious mental health conditions that require compassionate understanding and support. They can significantly impact physical health and emotional well-being, but with the right help, recovery is possible. In addition to my struggles with dyslexia, being a lesbian added another layer of complexity. Growing up, I felt different from my friends. They were attracted to boys, and because I wasn’t, I felt isolated. This feeling of not fitting in anywhere severely affected my self-esteem. I masked my true self for years, trying to conform to societal expectations, which brought me no happiness. Now, as an adult, I am more comfortable with my identity. I understand what dyslexia entails and seek help when needed, using various tools to perform my job well. Setting realistic expectations for myself has been a significant step. I often remind myself that just because others can do something doesn’t mean I have to do it the same way. I have learned to embrace my differences, focusing on my strengths rather than my limitations. In India, awareness about dyslexia is growing, but there is still a long way to go. According to the Dyslexia Association of India, many children go undiagnosed, and there is a lack of support in schools. It's important for educators and parents to recognize the signs of dyslexia early and provide the necessary support. Dyslexia is not a reflection of intelligence; many dyslexic individuals possess remarkable creativity and problem-solving skills. Supporting dyslexic individuals Support for dyslexic children and adults can significantly improve their quality of life and academic performance. Effective strategies include: Early diagnosis and intervention: Early identification of dyslexia allows for timely support and accommodations, reducing frustration and academic struggles. Tailored education plans: Individualized education programs (IEPs) can address specific learning needs and incorporate tools such as extra time for tests and the use of assistive technology. Multisensory teaching methods: Techniques that engage multiple senses can enhance learning and retention for dyslexic students. Positive reinforcement: Encouragement and recognition of effort and achievements can boost self-esteem and motivation. Mental health support: Access to counseling and mental health services can help manage the emotional impact of dyslexia and related conditions like anxiety and eating disorders. Buy K Vaishali's book here: https://amzn.in/d/5owZNiu Follow K Vaishali on socials: Instagram X (Twitter) LinkedIn Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

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

If you’re following the Paralympics 2024 as closely as us, you’ll want to keep this handy < Back Disability, News Team India’s schedule at the Paralympics 2024 If you’re following the Paralympics 2024 as closely as us, you’ll want to keep this handy MMS Staff 27 Aug 2024 9-min read Get ready to cheer for Team India at the Paris Paralympics 2024! If you're excited to follow every thrilling moment, we've got you covered with the full schedule—perfect for keeping track of when to tune in and support our incredible athletes. August 30 13:30 - Women’s Discus Throw F55 Final - Karam Jyoti, Sakshi Kasana 14:00 - Women’s 100m T35 Round 1 - Preethi Pal 16:39 - Women’s 100m T35 Round 1 Final - Preethi Pal* 00:20 - Men’s Shot Put F37 Final - Manu August 31 22:30 - Men’s Javelin Throw F57 Final - Parveen Kumar September 1 13:40 - Women’s 1500m T11 Round 1 - Rakshitha Raju 15:09 - Men’s Shot Put F40 Final - Ravi Rongali 22:58 - Men’s High Jump T47 Final - Ram Pal, Nishad Kumar 23:08 - Women’s 200m T35 Final - Preethi Pal September 2 13:35 - Men’s Discus Throw F56 Final - Yogesh Kathuniya 13:40 - Women’s 1500m T11 Final - Rakshitha Raju* 22:30 - Men’s Javelin Throw F64 Final - Sumit Antil, Sandeep, Sandip Sanjay Sargar 22:34 - Women’s Discus Throw F53 Final - Kanchan Lakhani 23:50 - Women’s 400m T20 Round 1 - Deepthi Jeevanji 00:10 - Men’s Javelin Throw F46 Final - Ajeet Singh, Rinku, Sundar Singh Gurjar September 3 14:26 - Women’s Shot Put F34 Final - Bhagyashri Madhavrao Jadhav 22:38 - Women’s 400m T20 Final - Deepthi Jeevanji* 23:40 - Men’s High Jump T63 Final - Mariyappan Thangavelu, Shailesh Kumar, Sharad Kumar September 4 13:35 - Men’s Shot Put F46 Final - Sachin Sarjerao Khilari, Mohd. Yasser, Rohit Kumar 15:16 - Women’s Shot Put F46 Final - Amisha Rawat 22:50 - Men’s Club Throw F51 Final - Dharambir, Amit Kumar, Pranav Soorma 23:00 - Women’s 100m T12 Round 1 - Simran September 5 15:10 - Women’s 100m T12 Semifinal - Simran* 22:47 - Women’s 100m T12 Final - Simran* 23:49 - Men’s Shot Put F35 - Arvind September 6 13:39 - Women’s 200m T12 Round 1 - Simran 14:08 - Men’s Javelin Throw F54 - Dipesh Kumar 14:47 - Men’s 400m T47 Round 1 - Dilip Mahadu Gavit 15:18 - Men’s High Jump T64 Final - Praveen Kumar 22:30 - Men’s Shot Put F57 Final - Soman Rana, Hokato Hotozhe Sema 22:48 - Women’s Javelin Throw F46 Final - Bhavanaben Ajabaji Chaudhary 23:10 - Women’s 200m T12 Semifinal - Simran* September 7 22:30 - Men’s Javelin Throw F41 Final- Navdeep 23:03 - Women’s 200m T12 Final - Simran* 00:29 - Men’s 400m T47 Final - Dilip Mahadu Gavit* Para Judo Indian schedule September 5 13:30 - Women’s -48kg J2 Preliminary Rounds 13:30 - Men’s -60kg J1 Preliminary Rounds 19:30 - Women’s -48kg J2 Final Block* 19:30 - Men’s -60kg J1 Final Block* Para Rowing Indian schedule August 30 15:00 - PR3 Mixed Doubles Sculls Heats August 31 14:40 - PR3 Mixed Double Sculls Repechages * September 1 14:00 - PR3 Mixed Double Sculls Final B (to determine position) 15:40 - PR3 Mixed Double Sculls Final A (medal match) Para archery Indian schedule August 29 16:30 - Women’s Individual Compound Open Ranking Round - Sheetal Devi (ST category), Sarita (W2 category) 16:30 - Men’s Individual Recurve Open Ranking Round - Harvinder Singh (ST category) 20:30 - Men’s Individual Compound Open Ranking Round - Rakesh Kumar (W2 category), Shyam Sundar Swami (ST category) 20:30 - Women’s Individual Recurve Open Ranking Round - Pooja (ST category) August 30 12:30 - Women’s Individual Compound Open 1/16 elimination 19:00 - Men’s Individual Compound Open 1/16 elimination August 31 19:00 - Women’s Individual Compound Open 1/8 elimination* 21:16 - Women’s Individual Compound Open Quarterfinal* 22:24 - Women’s Individual Compound Open Semifinal* 23:13 - Women’s Individual Compound Open Bronze Medal Match* 23:30 - Women’s Individual Compound Open Gold Medal Match* September 1 19:00 - Men’s Individual Compound Open 1/8 elimination* 21:16 - Men’s Individual Compound Open Quarterfinal* 22:24 - Men’s Individual Compound Open Semifinal* 23:13 - Men’s Individual Compound Open Bronze Medal Match* 23:30 - Men’s Individual Compound Open Gold Medal Match* September 2 19:00 - Mixed Team Compound Open 1/8 elimination 20:20 - Mixed Team Compound Open Quarterfinal* 21:40 - Mixed Team Compound Open Semifinal* 22:35 - Mixed Team Compound Open Bronze Medal Match* 22:55 - Mixed Team Compound Open Gold Medal Match* September 3 12:30 - Women’s Individual Recurve Open 1/16 elimination followed by 1/8 elimination* 20:30 - Women’s Individual Recurve Open Quarterfinal* 21:18 - Women’s Individual Recurve Open Semifinal* 22:27 - Women’s Individual Recurve Open Bronze Medal Match* 22:44 - Women’s Individual Recurve Open Gold Medal Match* September 4 12:30 - Men’s Individual Recurve Open 1/16 elimination followed by 1/8 elimination round* 21:00 - Men’s Individual Recurve Open Quarterfinal* 22:08 - Men’s Individual Recurve Open Semifinal* 22:54 - Men’s Individual Recurve Open Bronze Medal Match* 23:14 - Men’s Individual Recurve Open Gold Medal Match* September 5 13:30 - Mixed Team Recurve Open 1/8 elimination 18:30 - Mixed Team Recurve Open Quarterfinal* 19:50 - Mixed Team Recurve Open Semifinal* 20:45 - Mixed Team Recurve Bronze Medal Match* 21:05 - Mixed Team Recurve Gold Medal Match* Para Shooting Indian schedule August 30 12:30 - R2 - Women’s 10m Air Rifle Standing SH1 Qualification - Avani Lekhara, Mona Agarwal 14:45 - P1 - Men’s 10m Air Pistol SH1 Qualification - Manish Narwal, Rudransh Khandelwal 15:15 - R2 - Women’s 10m Air Rifle Standing SH1 Final - Avani Lekhara, Mona Agarwal* 17:00 - R4 - Mixed 10m Air Rifle Standing SH2 Qualification - Sriharsha Devaraddi Ramakrishna 17:30 - P1 - Men’s 10m Air Pistol SH1 Final - Manish Narwal, Rudransh Khandelwal* 19:45 - R4 - Mixed 10m Air Rifle Standing SH2 Final - Sriharsha Devaraddi Ramakrishna* August 31 13:00 - R1 - Men’s 10m Air Rifle Standing SH1 Qualification - Swaroop Mahavir Unhalkar 15:30 - P2 - Women’s 10m Air Pistol SH1 Qualification - Rubina Francis 15:45 - R1 - Men’s 10m Air Rifle Standing SH1 Final - Swaroop Mahavir Unhalkar* 18:15 - P2 - Women’s 10m Air Pistol SH1 Final - Rubina Francis* September 1 13:00 - R3 - Mixed 10m Air Rifle Prone SH1 Qualification - Avani Lekhara, Sidhartha Babu 15:00 - R5 - Mixed 10m Air Rifle Prone SH2 Qualification - Sriharsha Devaraddi Ramakrishna 16:30 - R3 - Mixed 10m Air Rifle Prone SH1 Final - Avani Lekhara, Sidhartha Babu* 18:30 - R5 - Mixed 10m Air Rifle Prone SH2 Final - Sriharsha Devaraddi Ramakrishna* September 2 12:30 - P3 - Mixed 25m Pistol SH1 Qualification Precision Stage - Amir Ahmad Bhat, Nihal Singh 16:30 - P3 - Mixed 25m Pistol SH1 Qualification Rapid Stage - Amir Ahmad Bhat, Nihal Singh 20:15 - P3 - Mixed 25m Pistol SH1 Final - Amir Ahmad Bhat, Nihal Singh* September 3 13:00 - R8 - Women’s 50m Rifle 3 Positions SH1 Qualification - Avani Lekhara, Mona Agarwal 19:30 - R8 - Women’s 50m Rifle 3 Positions SH1 Final - Avani Lekhara, Mona Agarwal* September 4 13:00 - P4 - Mixed 50m Pistol SH1 Qualification - Nihal Singh, Rudransh Khandelwal 15:45 - P4 - Mixed 50m Pistol SH1 Final - Nihal Singh, Rudransh Khandelwal* September 5 13:00 - R6 - Mixed 50m Rifle Prone SH1 Qualification - Mona Agarwal, Sidhartha Babu 15:15 - R6 - Mixed 50m Rifle Prone SH1 Final - Mona Agarwal, Sidhartha Babu* Indian Paracanoe Athletes at the Paris 2024 Paralympics September 6 13:30 - Men’s Kayak Single 200m -KL1 Heats 13:50 - Women’s Va’a Single 200m VL2 Heats 14:55 - Women’s Kayak Single 200m -KL1 Heats September 7 13:30 - Men’s Kayak Single 200m -KL1 Semifinal* 13:58 - Women’s Va’a Single 200m VL2 Semifinal* 14:50 - Men’s Kayak Single 200m -KL1 Final A (Medal Round)* 15:14 - Women’s Va’a Single 200m VL2 Final B* 15:22 - Women’s Va’a Single 200m VL2 Final A(Medal Round)* September 8 13:30 - Women’s Kayak Single 200m - KL1 Semifinal* 14:55 - Women’s Kayak Single 200m - KL1 Final A* Para Taekwondo Indian schedule August 29 13:30 onwards - Women K 44-47 kg Round of 16 15:40 onwards - Women K 44-47 kg Quarterfinals* 20:30 onwards - Women K 44-47 kg Repechage* 21:34 onwards - Women K 44-47 kg Semifinal* 22:40 onwards - Women K 44-47 kg Bronze Medal Contests* August 30 00:04 - Women K44-47 kg Gold Medal Contest* Indian Para Powerlifters at the Paris 2024 Paralympics September 4 15:30 - Men’s up to 49kg (Medal Round) 20:30 - Women’s up to 45kg (Medal Round) September 5 22:05 - Men’s up to 65kg (Medal Round) September 6 20:30 - Women’s up to 67 kg (Medal Round) The 17th edition of the Summer Paralympics will take place in Paris, France, from August 28 to September 8 this year. There will be 549 events in 22 sports. Full schedule Event Date Opening Ceremony August 28 Blind Football September 1-7 Boccia August 29 - September 5 Goalball August 29 - September 5 Para Archery August 29 - September 5 Para Athletics August 30 - September 8 Para Badminton August 29 - September 2 Para Canoe September 6-8 Para Cycling Road September 4-7 Para Cycling Track August 29 - September 1 Para Equestrian September 2-7 Para Judo September 5-7 Para Powerlifting September 4-8 Para Rowing August 30 - September 1 Para Swimming August 29 - September 7 Para Table Tennis August 29 - September 7 Para Taekwondo August 29-31 Para Triathlon September 1-2 Shooting Para Sport August 30 - September 5 Sitting Volleyball August 29 - September 7 Wheelchair Basketball August 29 - September 8 Wheelchair Fencing September 3-7 Wheelchair Rugby August 29 - September 2 Wheelchair Tennis August 30 - September 7 Closing Ceremony September 8 *Denotes subject to qualification Much much relate? 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The India leg of the band’s ongoing Music of the Spheres Tour will spotlight accessibility < Back News, Disability, Neurodiversity Coldplay tours setting the Gold standard for disability inclusion The India leg of the band’s ongoing Music of the Spheres Tour will spotlight accessibility MMS Staff 22 Sept 2024 3-min read In thrilling news for Indian music fans, British rock band Coldplay has announced that their highly acclaimed Music of the Spheres World Tour will make a much-anticipated stop in Mumbai in 2025. This tour, which has been dazzling audiences across the globe since 2022 is more than just a concert — it’s a masterclass in inclusivity, setting a new standard for accessibility in live music. Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres World Tour isn’t just about performing hit songs; it’s about ensuring that every fan, regardless of their abilities, can fully enjoy the experience. And to that end, Coldplay has taken significant steps to make their shows accessible to everyone, redefining what it means to create an inclusive concert environment. Support for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing fans Coldplay provides local sign language interpreters at their shows, allowing fans who are deaf or hard-of-hearing to engage with the music and lyrics in real time. Additionally, SubPacs — tactile audio systems that let users feel the vibrations of the music — are offered, ensuring the concert’s energy and rhythm can be physically experienced by those who may not be able to hear it. Neurodivergent-friendly Coldplay has partnered with KultureCity to provide sensory bags and mobile sensory refuge stations for fans with sensory sensitivities, helping them manage sensory overload during the concert. These thoughtful additions make the experience more comfortable and enjoyable for those who need a quieter, safer space. Touch tours for visually impaired fans To further enhance accessibility, Coldplay offers touch tours for guests who are visually impaired or have low vision, allowing them to engage with the concert’s elements in a tactile way. This thoughtful feature ensures that all fans, regardless of visual ability, can immerse themselves in the live experience. The band’s broader impact The band donates 10 percent of their profits from tours, record sales, and other ventures to various charitable causes, including ClientEarth, Global Citizen, The Ocean Cleanup, and One Tree Planted. Most recently, Coldplay has partnered with EarthPercent as a founding donor, amplifying their efforts to address pressing environmental challenges. Coldplay’s India return Coldplay’s return to India is a moment fans have been eagerly awaiting since their last performance at the Global Citizen Festival in Mumbai in 2016. That iconic show was a star-studded affair that aimed to promote global development goals, and it left a lasting impression on Indian audiences. Now, the band’s upcoming solo concert in Mumbai as part of the Music of the Spheres World Tour promises to build on that legacy, bringing their iconic hits like “Fix You,” “Yellow,” “A Sky Full of Stars,” and “Hymn for the Weekend” back to Indian shores. Fans are already buzzing with excitement. When Coldplay’s official page announced the news on Instagram, the comments section lit up with joy: “OH MY GOD IT’S HAPPENINGGGGG,” exclaimed one fan, while another wrote, “FINALLYYY YESSSSSSS!!! Our prayers have been heardddd.” As Coldplay prepares to light up Mumbai in 2025, their Music of the Spheres World Tour is more than just a series of concerts; it’s a movement that celebrates music’s power to unite and uplift, creating a space where everyone can feel the magic. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

The Mexican lawyer’s journey to success highlights the power of accommodations, access and community support < Back Disability, News, Education Ana Victoria Espino De Santiago: World’s first Down Syndrome lawyer The Mexican lawyer’s journey to success highlights the power of accommodations, access and community support MMS Staff 22 Aug 2024 1-min read Ana Victoria Espino De Santiago, a young woman from Zacatecas, Mexico, has recently become the world’s first lawyer with Down Syndrome. She recently graduated with a degree in Law from the Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas (BUAZ). Born in 1999, Ana Victoria’s journey to this milestone is testament to what accommodations, accessibility and the right support systems can do for disabled people. From a very young age, Ana Victoria’s parents, Marisol and Jesús, instilled in her a deep love for education and the arts. They created a nurturing environment that allowed her to flourish and pursue her passions. This support system proved crucial as Ana Victoria navigated the challenges of an education system that was not equipped to meet her needs. Determined to avoid the discrimination she might face in a traditional classroom, Ana Victoria completed her high school education online. She then enrolled at the Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas to study law. It was here that she encountered one of her greatest challenges: a legal education system unprepared for her specific needs. With the help of a dedicated shadow professor, known as a ‘maestra sombra,’ who provided personalised support, she went on with studies. But even before Ana Victoria completed her law degree, she was making her mark as an advocate for disability rights. She actively participated in legislative forums, sharing her story and advocating for the inclusion of people with disabilities. Her contributions to these discussions were a vital part of her growing understanding of the legal field. Ana Victoria, also an accomplished artist, has held several painting exhibitions since 2014, showcasing her talent at prestigious venues, including the lobby of the Congress of the Union in Mexico City. Her collection, titled “Desde mi cielo” (“From My Sky”), was met with acclaim. Ana Victoria says her goal is not just personal achievement but to pave the way for others with disabilities to occupy decision-making spaces in society. A fervent advocate for disability rights, she is using her platform to push for greater inclusion and disability representation in all sectors. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS

A series featuring people with different backgrounds discuss important topics through personal experiences and expert opinions. < Back Series Unheard Stories A series featuring people with different backgrounds discuss important topics through personal experiences and expert opinions. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5lSvoxPJjh8 To celebrate International Women's Day ‘23 we featured 11 incredible women who shared their honest and unfiltered experiences of ableism, gender bias, microaggressions, and exclusion. From autism and ADHD to disability and caregiving, these women give voice to the discrimination and challenges that women with disabilities encounter every day. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back ORIGINALS

Enabling inclusion and employment for persons with disabilities < Back Breaking Barriers, Building Careers Enabling inclusion and employment for persons with disabilities 'Breaking Barriers, Building Careers' focuses on promoting employment opportunities for persons with developmental and intellectual disabilities. The cross-format campaign - developed by Much Much Spectrum and facilitated by Yash Charitable Trust and IP Integrated Services Pvt Ltd - highlights the importance of inclusion, skill development, and supported employment programs to ensure individuals with disabilities can live and work with dignity and self-respect to create an inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t_NK3EK6Xao Data & insights: According to the 2011 Census, only 36% of the 26 million disabled individuals in India are employed. Gender disparity is significant, with 47% male and only 23% female participation. Misconceptions persist that individuals with disabilities are unemployable, despite strong evidence to the contrary. The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2021-2022 shows a higher unemployment rate for persons with disabilities compared to the general population, highlighting systemic barriers. Despite the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016 mandating a 4% reservation in government jobs, implementation varies widely, with many positions unfilled due to administrative inefficiencies and lack of awareness. Workplace accommodations are often lacking, preventing optimal performance and inclusion for employees with disabilities. Societal attitudes and stereotypes result in discrimination during hiring processes, with biases against the capabilities of persons with disabilities. Limited access to quality education and vocational training restricts employability, as inclusive education and skills development programs are not widely available or adequately implemented. Effective support programs for job searching, application processes, and workplace adjustments are scarce, exacerbating employment challenges. Higher levels of poverty and economic insecurity among persons with disabilities limit access to resources needed for job searches and professional development. Our approach: We adopted a data-driven, social impact-led approach to highlight the journey of individuals with disabilities, from skills development to meaningful employment. By documenting their experiences and the support provided by YCT, we aimed to address common misconceptions and promote inclusive hiring practices. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R2m3Ogmpfcg Campaign objective & goals: To promote employment opportunities for persons with developmental and intellectual disabilities. To showcase the impact of meaningful employment on the lives of these people To encourage employers to hire individuals with disabilities and reach out to YCT for help, support and sensitization sessions. Challenges: Overcoming societal stereotypes and biases against employing individuals with disabilities. Ensuring widespread dissemination of the campaign message to reach target audiences. Solutions devised: Target audience: employers, HR professionals, recruitment agencies, and senior leaders. Narrative: chronicling the stories of individuals with disabilities at their workplaces, showcasing their skills and the support provided by YCT. Topicality: emphasizing the importance of inclusive hiring practices and the benefits of a diverse workforce. Deliverables: Films x 2: documenting the journey of individuals with disabilities Ancillary assets: 5 x social media posts 10 x stories Platforms: Multi-format, cross-platform campaign distributed on social media, websites, and partner channels, including LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram, and company websites to maximize reach and engagement. Timelines: The campaign ran for over a month with consistent traction and engagement. Impact: Reactions from corporate leaders, employers, and caregivers. 10x increased awareness and inquiries about YCT’s programs. Positive feedback and support from the community. Learnings: Successfully promoted employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities and encouraged inclusive hiring practices. Increased awareness and positive perception of the capabilities of individuals with disabilities. Way forward: Continue promoting inclusive hiring practices through ongoing content creation and partnerships. Expand the campaign to include more sectors and geographical regions. Develop additional support programs for employers and individuals with disabilities to facilitate successful employment. Monitor and analyze the long-term impact of the campaign to refine strategies and approaches. WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link Much much relate? Share it now! < Back CAMPAIGNS

Sometimes it’s less about sharing the same physical space and more about meeting the person where they are < Back Neurodiversity, Parenting Understanding co-regulation: 5 ways to support Neurodivergent individuals Sometimes it’s less about sharing the same physical space and more about meeting the person where they are MMS Staff 11 Aug 2024 2-min read What is co-regulation? Co-regulation is the process of helping someone achieve emotional and sensory balance by being present with them in a meaningful way. It’s about creating a shared space where trust and connection can develop, allowing both people to feel more at ease. Co-regulation is especially important for neurodivergent individuals, who may experience heightened states of dysregulation due to unmet sensory, social, and communication needs. Rather than simply offering advice or directing someone to self-soothe, co-regulation is about embodying a sense of calm and connection. This approach helps the nervous system of the neurodivergent person to gradually regulate, reducing stress and enabling them to feel more comfortable in their environment. Here are five practical ways to co-regulate with a neurodivergent person: Adopt a low-demand approach One of the most effective ways to support a neurodivergent person is by reducing the demands placed on them. By minimising expectations and pressures, you help create a safer environment where they can regulate more effectively. This might involve offering more time for tasks, reducing sensory input, or simply allowing them to engage in activities at their own pace without additional stress. Model self-regulation strategies Modelling your own self-regulation strategies can be incredibly helpful. For example, if you need a moment to reset, you might say, “I’m going to take a quick walk because it helps me feel more balanced.” By demonstrating how you manage your own sensory and emotional needs, you provide a tangible example for the neurodivergent person to follow. Over time, they may develop their own toolbox of strategies. Engage in parallel play or body doubling Parallel play, where you participate in a similar activity alongside the neurodivergent person, or body doubling, where you work on separate tasks in the same space, can be low-pressure ways to co-regulate. These approaches allow for shared time and space without the need for direct interaction, which can be overwhelming for some neurodivergent individuals. Knowing that someone is nearby and engaged in a similar rhythm helps create a sense of connection and ease. Create ‘co-regulation bubbles’ Throughout the day, create small moments of co-regulation by sharing activities that bring both of you joy. This could be as simple as listening to music together, sharing a favourite snack, or engaging in a sensory-friendly activity like watching a familiar show. These ‘bubbles’ of co-regulation offer opportunities to recharge and reconnect, helping to maintain a balanced state. Be a ‘space holder’ Sometimes, the most meaningful way to co-regulate is by simply being present. For neurodivergent people, “being with” someone doesn’t always mean physical proximity. It could involve sharing an online space, knowing that someone is available if needed, or even just offering quiet companionship. By holding space for the neurodivergent person, you provide a foundation of support that allows them to regulate at their own pace. Co-regulation is a powerful way to support neurodivergent individuals, creating a sense of safety and connection that can lead to better emotional and sensory regulation. By adopting these strategies, you can create a more inclusive environment where neurodivergent people can thrive. Much much relate? Share it now! WhatsApp Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Copy link < Back SHORTS