#inclusion and representation is inherently political

[hussyknee]

Everyone stop what you're doing and go read KJ Charles. She is a master class in queer historical fiction and writing diversity authentically.

[warpcoreweirdness]

just finished season 2 of Lower Decks and i'm SO glad i tried this show again

i actually started the show a while ago, but the constant easter eggs put me off.

(i still don't know how non-Trekkie viewers are meant to get the jokes where the punchline is "reference!! 😂", but lots of people enjoy it so ymmv).

i stopped a few minutes into episode 2 after Rutherford agrees to quit his job as an engineer so he can watch the Trivoli pulsar with Tendi.

i honestly thought it was going to be a storyline about a guy giving up a job he loves and making his boss angry so that he can spend time with a female friend he has a crush on, because that's the plotline i've been conditioned to expect from tv. i wasn't feeling excited about the show, so i put it on pause.

but if i'd watched for about two more seconds before noping out for a few months, i would've seen this:

when i started watching again, i realised that the episodes never bog themselves down in drawn-out, uncomfortable storyline or character staples - they're actually incredibly well-written, tightly paced, and tell their stories in just the right amount of time. Rutherford wants to be Tendi's friend (at least for now), his boss Billups is really supportive, and Tendi brings a PADD into the Jefferies tube so they can both do what they enjoy, separately but together.

another great part about that scene with Rutherford and his boss is something that Lower Decks does a lot, which is make jokes that actually rely on subverting audience expectations. a big example - and a way of referencing other parts of the Star Trek franchise that does work for me - is when the creators gently poke fun at or subvert common story beats, emotional arcs, or dramatic moments from other parts of Trek.

like when Rutherford loses his memory and Tendi is excited to get to know him again, rather than devastated that he doesn't remember her.

or when they save themselves from being smooshed by Dooplers by dramatically ejecting the warp core of their tiny model starship.

or when Tendi goes on an arc of significant personal development over the course of one (1) whole episode.

they're general enough that even people who haven't seen other Star Trek shows (or movies) can still recognise and appreciate them.

beyond this, the show also has great moments where they (lovingly) cast a light on some of the flaws and foibles in the franchise, often in subtle or comedic ways.

like showing people in beep chairs living their best lives (in contrast to TOS and SNW's view of the beep chair as a tragic, doomsday fate for Pike).

or using Tendi to comment on Trek's depiction of Orions specifically as all pirates and slavers, and alien cultures more generally as monocultures.

or even just acknowledging that Trek shows mostly focus on the bridge crew doing heroic first contact-esque adventures, when that can't be all there is to Starfleet.

heck, they even have Rutherford go on a journey of acceptance and self-discovery after a permanent memory wipe (in contrast to Uhura in TOS, where it's never mentioned again).

another reason i really appreciate the show is that the creators have taken the time to think through what a more inclusive future could look like, in ways that are noticeably lacking or absent in many other Trek shows:

beyond exploring diversity through explicit identity representation (which is still very important), it does this through its world building as well.

i love this communal sonic shower scene for what it says about gender and body politics in Trek. in the future, why would we still separate bathrooms and changing rooms by gender? and why would we have the same views and expectations around bodies that we (by "we" i mean Western countries) do now?

this short scene dismantles the idea that nudity is inherently sexual, that gender is binary and biological, that some genders can't be trusted around other genders while naked, and that heterosexuality is the default (and when you bring dozens of alien species into the mix, why wouldn't we have more and newer ways of thinking about gender?). it even has a little mention that Boimler prefers not to shower with others, leaving space for people to act however feels most comfortable for them.

it's such a little thing, but after years spent (lovingly) yelling at the screen during TNG, TOS, DS9, etc saying, "why are they assuming everyone is straight? WHY would people be this sexist?", i noticed it immediately and appreciated it immensely.

(this isn't related to the storytelling, but i also have to say - the animation in Lower Decks is so pretty???):

this isn't a perfect show, but it's funny, has fantastic storytelling, and it loves the source material without worshipping it. (which is not something i expected to say, given how it started).

plus i love these characters SO MUCH.

so far, so very good 🤞.

(image descriptions in alt text)

[songoftrillium]

Likes don’t increase visibility to others! Please reblog this to spread the word! 

I think Werewolf is an inherently queer medium

This is all a part of a larger long-term project.

I am trying to hold the World of Darkness to higher standards of inclusivity.

Book 1: Cliath

Meet The Gaians — a chosen people blessed by Gaia of whom among them there are heroes who are born, blessed with the power to Change. They have been charged with the duty of protecting her and her brood, and among them are fellowships from every culture. They are largely comprised of Kinfolk. Vanguards of the earth, they follow the Codes and Creeds of renown in chiminage to the spirits in exchange for favor, protection, and power to strengthen their Fellowships and they form one of several primary factions.

A small number of Gaia’s chosen have been gifted the ability to shapeshift through either bite or birth into animals; warriors joining the fight against the Wyrm. The Gaians have many secret names for these shapeshifters between their cultures, and they range across many animal species and tribes, but the most common among them in these times are Garou.

This sourcebook includes information on First Changes, Rites of Passage, how people become werewolves, and what they're fighting for. Book 1 is effectively a players guide, including enough comprehensive character creation rules for people to create rank 1 Garou.

The World of Darkness is implied to exist just beneath a facade that all others take for granted as simply being a world gone wrong. When the Change happens to a Garou, human or otherwise, the world they once knew ceases to be. The Apocalypse is said to be something happening to everything, everywhere, simultaneously, and on every level. This transcends the concept of everything succumbing to a singular event but many small ones.

In many ways, the Garou themselves are emblematic of this Apocalypse, with these former lives ending and sweeping the cub into something far bigger than themselves. A Call To Action is the theme of Book 1.

Book 1: Cliath goes into warborn, bitten, wolf-born, and human-born lives leading up to the change. It presents a curated depiction of the Garou from the perspective of those who would mentor them. There are not a lot of conflicts, profound lore, or politics so much as 'this is what we are, this is what we do.' Functionally, this can be considered a Players’ Guide, containing your attributes, abilities, advantages, and Merits and Flaws. Gifts and rites will be truncated to rank 1 for the most part. Guidelines for new STs will be found here, including enough powers and enemy stats to keep their troupe of players on their toes. This will also include things like chargen and descriptions of attributes, abilities, and advantages. This will also have many details on packs and the importance of one's packmates. And what better way to introduce new players than to have it happen in an all-new setting for storytellers to introduce their players to the game: the first three chapters of Dead Mountain!

Dead Mountain isn't going anywhere. In fact, it will be used as the foundation for this series. Already-finished parts of the Dead Mountain will be released over the next few months, and a delayed release of the full chronicle will come next spring. The scope of Werewolf: the Essentials will strongly diverge from past game traditions. In past core books and settings, there was an intent to showcase the world at large, written from the perspective of people who had never been to these places. In the end, many details were laughably wrong or mediocre representations that didn’t appeal to the groups they represented. We want the World of Darkness to be HUGE. So, we will be laser-focusing this project to represent the Garou from the Pacific Northwest as an example, with guidelines on how to make your own World of Darkness at your locale HUGE too!

CALLING ALL CHARACHS!

We cannot make this happen without your help.  We are putting out the call for folx from all parts of the queer, lesbian, trans, bisexual, gay, and asexual werewolf fandom looking to help make this the best possible release we can:

Artists

Horror writers

Editors

Consultants

Hype Wolves to help spread the word

Indie TTRPG creators

Working together, we can create a game that is fun, engaging, and genuinely representative of the diverse community of players and fans who love Werewolf. To help us out, click here We look forward to providing you future updates!

UPDATE: Our team has grown huge, and we're grateful to the fandom for rising up and howling with us! We received far more applications than we were able to fully process, but we promise to deliver you the best possible Sourcebook anthology we can! Meet the Writing Team Meet the Art Team Follow our official account for future announcements! To check out a book preview and help us hire cultural consultants click here

Social Media Shout-out! I offer my thanks to @peltofash and @a-boros-named-seamus for supporting me on the Adren and Athro tiers! Your contributions are directly helping make this game more inclusive!

[communistkenobi]

conversations about representation have always felt so navel-gazing to me, in part because those conversations tend to remain at the level of individual characters. the focus is on representing individuals as meaningful examples of the groups they belong to - to have “good” representation is to see some component(s) of your social identity reflected back at you by a character without those being the only traits of those characters. To measure representation you first look to see if there are visual or descriptive markers of identity - skin colour, gender, sexual attraction, ability - and then, once that evidence is established, one looks at how characters interact with and contribute to the narrative. does this gay character have a romantic partner? does this black character have interiority not related to their relationship to white characters? is this woman character motivated by something other than a desire to impress men? The goal is to avoid stereotypes, to be an anti-stereotype.

And so you ‘solve’ representation through the adequate presence of these characters. But I think this is an inherently individualistic and anti-liberatory way to approach representation, because it views minorities as individuals who can be cut from the social fabric of real life and transported into different fictional universes while leaving their identities fully intact. The presence of a disabled character does not also require the inclusion of structural ableism in the narrative, their individual presence is enough to represent disability. And so their presence in the narrative seems to emerge from nowhere - you don’t judge representation by looking at how the narrative represents and thinks about historical structures of race, gender, ability, you judge it by the amount of characters who contain those social markers. It means social identity exists primarily within the individual. There is no historical perspective given to characters, no acknowledgement of the fact that identity is dialectic and socially mediated. to paraphrase Gramsci, history impresses upon you an infinity of traces without leaving an inventory, and I think when discussing representation, people judge the quality of representation by those traces - race, gender, ability, sexuality, religion, etc - but ignores the inventory, the origins of those things, the social processes that produce race, produce gender, constantly and everyday. And so you get these characters that feel dislocated, alien to themselves and other people, because they express an identity that appears to have no origin point in the fictional world, no social backing. They are essentialised to what they “are” deep down inside. Characters are not made racial, not made gendered, not made disabled by the universe they exist in, they simply “are” those things.

And if narratives do tackle those histories, they tend to represent them primarily through misery. You know a character is gay because they get called slurs. You see a black character experience racism. You recognise a character is a woman by the fact that she is sexually assaulted. The history of their identities is represented as individual acts of violence or trauma, as if misogyny or racism are narrative objects themselves that occasionally collide with the characters to remind the audience that the authors take history very seriously. If an author is especially serious, they will get individual sensitivity readers to confirm or deny the authenticity of the social identity being expressed on the page; much less often you will hear of authors who rigorously consult, for example, books like Orientalism to ensure the structure of their work is not reproducing Western (and ultimately racist) conclusions about the world they are creating. Representational politics begins (and frequently ends) at the level of the individual. And so you get queer characters who endure homophobia or transphobia, but whose ultimate wish is to enter into a monogamous marriage and reproduce the social unit of the nuclear family, or the black character who finally finds community in a group of all white people that aren’t racist to their face. That’s not tackling history, that’s just allowing these character to be momentarily exempt from it. the historical norms and hegemonies present in the narrative are disconnected from the characters themselves. this is why you can have “good representation” in stories that are fundamentally racist or misogynistic or heteronormative (see: ofmd). If representation is only housed in your characters, if you view representation as a discrete trait that you can add more or less of, you are not thinking about the social identities that you are representing in a systemic way - you are, in effect, producing tokens.

And I think that sense of dislocation is part of what motivates people to cringe away from stories primarily billed as having “a diverse cast” or filled with “queer characters” or whatever, even when they are otherwise desperate for those things (excluding from this discussion the people who dislike the mere appearance of characters who are not strong white men, a perspective that is not worth entertaining). I do not want to watch stories that smash characters and identities together like barbie dolls, that treat race or gender as something to “tackle” in a B plot or a “police brutality episode” like you get in a show like Brooklyn 99. I do not want a character creation screen. Identity should, ideally, be part of the structure of the narrative, not a thing you merely choose to “include.” Which is much more difficult, of course - it requires a robust political imagination, but it’s a problem that is possible to solve.

[meartemesia]

Hollywood's Modern Sensorship.

(My opinion as a young, queer, white person from South Africa who is aware of my own privilage as well as being discriminated against as a gay Afrikaans person who grew up in a church ruled, largely white Afrikaans community .)

As many fans mourne the loss of yet another show with queer and poc representation, it has become more evident that there is a pattern in Netflix's recent shows.

The graveyard of shows inclusive of positive queer representation wherin the queerness is not made out to be hyper sexual, destructive of friendship or lets the character have a happy ending, grows with another show. Dead Boy Detectives.

Sensorship is defined as: the suppression or prohibition of any parts of books, films, news, etc. that are considered obscene, politically unacceptable, or a threat to security.

"the regulation imposes censorship on all media"

While Hollywood has made trives in recent years to abolish its former Haze code, it has managed to find a legal loophole in the inherent capitalism of showbusiness.

Shows with a dedicated fanbase and essence are being cancelled for not meeting a specific quota of income. While that might sound reasonable regarding the unbelievable amounts studios spend on media, this quota isnt just about the financial aspect. Studios rely on a show's fanbase and potential growth or popularity concerning future fans and a growing audience.

This means any shows that might be co troversial in the future stand less of a chance to be invested in.

2024 was a wildly restless political year globally and while every country had its own worries, all eyes have been targeted on the shitshow that is the powerhoise of the Unitedd States as the media hub of western culture.

America'a influence on the world is no small feat and while it can be argued that that might not be a good thing, it is a fact as true as South Africa's concerning history of corrupt governance.

The uptick in sexism, homophobia and especially transphobia that has become rampant in recent hears has become reflective in the media we consume. From the cancellation of First Kill to now, we are seeing the effects of homophobia as a meand of income.

The movement against rainbow capitalism and other movements exposing the exploitation of human right campaigns by companies seeking money from "trends" has lead to more and more companies dropping their former "support" as the views of the clientele shift with recent political unrest.

It is not onlt shows that are being cancelled.

Companies have removed pride month lines, stopped funding lgbtqia+ charities, have started supporting conversion charities, anti lgbtqia+ charities and have begun pandering to a wider and more sensorred audience.

This is a blatant disregard for human rights in the sense of spreading awareness, representation and watering down human lives to trends that can bolster an income.

These executives don't care about the audience. They do not care about "the sanctity of morals". They dont care about us or the conservative side of any government.

They care about money.

We need to start seperating corporations from government. No one is immune to propaganda. Not even you.

Sensorship isnt about moral rights or wrongs. Its about money. So wherever you lean on the political spectrum, anywhere in the world. The media you consume isn't made for representation, moral righteousness, serving a higher power, nor is it about the appreciation of art and film and writing.

This is an attack on art as a means of expression. It is the sensorship of what art is fundamentally about: The Expression of Ideas weather people like them or not.

Art has been turned into a money grab. A means of corporate propaganda and somehow, even in their attempt to overtly sensor art, they are exposing their true intentions and reflecting the larger issues happening in the world around us.

Queer people, wen, people of colour, trans people, disabled people and anyone who doesnt fit into the rigid framework of humanity's "perfection", we are being silenced by having our art silenced.

This is your sign to start supporting local artists. Lgbt owned foundations and other minority foundations. The lgbtqia+ community has shown a large support for Palestine in the past year and as we are aware, Hollywood doesnt agree with supporting the end of a genocide. So we, as well as anyone who politically aligns themselves with this humanitarian view of sacrid human life, are silenced. Why?

Because you can't profit off fair means. No empire has ever been built fairly. Capitalism has its pros and cons. So does any other form of politics.

But we must not let the future generations wonder why we couldnt stop the downfall of our communities. We must act now so that future generations will not have to be burdened with another Stone wall, Apartheid, Suffragette movement.

We are provilaged enough now by having rights thanks to the martyrs who fought for human life.

Religious or not, we can all agree that the chances of us existing is miraculous. Human life is sacred. Do not let the 1% fool you.

The only dangerous minority, are the rich.

[onsomekindofstartrek]

I think fundamentally the lgbtq+ versus queer nomenclature debate comes down to this:

Are we better served by creating a new in-group, or by coming together in solidarity and recognition of the fact that, broadly, we belong to the out-group?

Assimilation is possible for some, not for all. I don’t think we can imagine a practical path to complete assimilation for everyone who wants it, and even then, it’s not desirable for everyone. The whole paradigm is frankly sort of imperial. “Become normal!” So that leaves either liberation or separatism, and I thank heavens that we’re not earnestly discussing separatism anymore. Leave that for the MRA’s.

And frankly the neat little package of “these identities in this list,” L and G and B and T and whatever we feel like tacking on the end “as a concession to the times” feels very assimilationist to me. It says “here’s a new in-group,” one that’s neatly defined so that we can push media representation and inclusion of these specific identities, as if they were a DLC for human society more broadly.

And that doesn’t work for me. That doesn’t work for someone who’s queer in four different ways. It doesn’t work for someone whose identity is difficult to even express to the cishet majority. Not everyone is so neat as to go into this math equation of a cultural movement a whole number of times with no remainder. Identifying yourself as “LGBTQ+” is an invitation for someone to ask “well, which one?” And what of the people who can’t answer in a way that’s concise, unambiguous and digestible?

For assimilationists, that’s inconvenient. For liberationists, our project is to make society tolerate us in spite of that.

So, while I might dislike the actual audible sound of the word “queer,” (it’s just an unpleasant combination of sounds, with some very unpleasant-sounding words just a few consonants away) I still say it’s the more useful term and the more useful political project. I don’t think the gender, sexual and romantic minorities, taken as a whole, are such a fancy club that it needs a goddamned list of who gets to be in it, let alone be named after that list in the form of an initialism. We’re… the weird people; the fucked-up people; the strangers.

(And I think when you’re reclaiming a slur taken from people who value conformity and strict social roles, for it to be a slur that literally means strange/weird/foreign is an incredibly strong and provocative posture.)

Frankly I have little interest in distinguishing between “real queers” and people with adjacent or shared interests who can stand in solidarity with us and do not harm our cause. Are cishet poly people queer? I don’t know, and frankly I don’t care.

Do they have a useful shared interest in changing romantic and sexual norms? Do they experience social rejection because of this practice or identity? These are more interesting and important questions. Unless you think that poly people are inherently child abusers or inherently cisnormative or heterosexist, which are all harmful stereotypes, you should be viewing them as potential allies if you cannot bring yourself to view them as members of the community. But of course some people apparently can’t bring themselves to call asexual and aromantic people LGBTQ+ or queer despite obvious shared oppression along common axes, so maybe I’m asking too much here.

And the same goes for other groups and other identities. I’m not interested in defining who “is queer.” I’m interested in who has shared interests with the queer community and who is willing to stand with that community when things get tough. When we fight intolerance and exclusion, it seems unwise to use as our weapons, intolerance and exclusion.

At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter what I think either. I just think there are certain perspectives that aren’t going to help us in the long run, and making a little list of specific things the actual official name of our community is one of them.

[dtba]

ARTIST LESLIE FORTUNA EXPLORES IDENTITY AND HER SURROUNDINGS

June 23, 2020

Leslie Fortuna is a Dominican / Puerto Rican artist from Brooklyn currently studying at NYU. Her visual work entails representing woman of color through various mediums. Though the work is inherently political, it is also filled wit and playfulness and a pervading sense of humanity that drips from the canvas. We sat down with her for an illuminating discussion on how issues surrounding identity and politics shape her Art.

ARTIST INTERVIEW

How do you identify? What does an Afro-Latinx identity mean to you? How do you embody it?

Leslie: I identify as Afro-Latina, my mom and dad are Puerto Rican and Dominican respectively. To me, this means that I’m a Black Latina, two identities that are not mutually exclusive. I never realized this needed to be said until I began my journey of higher education. My identity is something I understood easily while growing up between a home in Santo Domingo, D.R. and an apartment in Brooklyn, NY. The way I was perceived by others is what shaped my initial understanding of my identity. I knew the world saw my brown skin first, so I knew that’s what I was, but it was also what everyone else I knew was, so it wasn’t a difficult thing. Entering college from this point forced me to classify myself in ways I had never felt the need to before, mostly because I was now having conversations about culture and my racial plight, in relation to whiteness. I understand Latinidad in ways I previously did not after learning about my history and also creating it in the present day. I feel I embody my identity by embracing who I am because of my ancestors. It’s important to me as Afro-Latina to assert that I am both Black and Latinx, neither one or the other, nor half and half. I never felt as though I had to choose one and I would never want to erase my blackness by doing so anyway.

How does identity politics and intersectionality intersect with your artistic practice?

Leslie: Firstly, for my art, I’ve always used myself and my surroundings for reference. I always felt I understood female anatomy better so I enjoyed drawing women and uplifting them with my work. As a plus-sized woman, I have always known what it’s like to feel excluded. Therefore, when practicing my art growing up I made the conscious decision to represent women like myself, and create art that beautifully captures women of all shapes and sizes. Racial inclusivity is also an important feature of my work. Like many other young, self-taught artists, my humble beginnings learning to draw consisted of mimicking a lot of Anime art styles. I quickly noticed that the subjects I was interested in portraying had very few appearances in these drawings. It’s rare to see a person of darker skin in an anime, and many in the art community unfortunately believe the style does not lend itself well to meaningfully capturing Afro-centric features (when it can!). Thus, my position in the artistic world being a plus-sized woman of color has influenced my work greatly. These aspects of myself are the parts that I want to reflect in my work, to normalize representing characters like me as the subjects of works of art as well as animated media.

What are some of the motifs that you have included in your most recent work?

Leslie: Overall my work tends to focus on the representation of women of color. Learning about art means studying a lot of white men who painted a lot of white women. So, I aim to portray the type of women I see in my own real life, the women who are beautiful to me regardless of weight, height, complexion, etc. I find that setting is becoming more important for me, as part of my goal to depict women who are like myself is to portray them in the environments I want my audience to view from my eyes. I want my art to capture the emotions that arise in the various situations Black women face on a regular basis. I love emphasizing the aesthetics of our spaces that are not typically glamorized (i.e. a  Dominican hair salon) and really portraying the beauty that exists in our everyday experiences of these settings. I would say a motif I’ve made a point of incorporating into my work recently is the upliftment of dark skin. In light of the recent discourse on colorism in our community, I really want to celebrate dark complexions in my art and portray their beauty, as I believe this representation is something very important yet too often overlooked in many media forms. I hope to bring this representation into other forms of media as I continue my career.

How has the resurgence of Black Lives Matter protests influenced your work?

Leslie: Firstly, the Black Lives Matter movement is inspiring to me in its fight for the support of other Black people, whether it be a business, a talent, an art form. The resurgence of the movement has firstly reminded me of my place in the artistic world as an Afro-Latinx artist. I’d like to eventually enter the animation field, which is one in which there are not many people like me. This has reminded me of why I wanted to enter this field in the first place, to represent people like myself who are not usually the main characters of their favorite shows or films. I think the media we consume, even animation, influences the way we think whether we believe so or not. The movement has also inspired me to use my art as a tool for my advocacy and has been a way to do my part using my skill. In order to raise money to support the movement, I’ve created work to sell online and donate the revenue from. I collaborated with other artists (Shirley Reynozo and Katherine Bencosme) in creating visuals for infographics about protest safety. Most recently, I created a portrait in tribute to the beautiful 19 year-old Oluwatoyin Salau (Rest in Power). I wanted to raise awareness about her case and continue to spread her message: that Black Lives Matter, we must fight for our Black women, and we must protect Black trans lives.

Apart from your activism art you have created in the last week, your work takes different forms and mediums. What mediums do you use? What does art curation mean to you? Are you aiming to represent your community, or are you aiming to hold a mirror to your community to talk about certain realities?

Leslie: 90 percent of the time, my medium is digital art, by way of pen tablet. The other 10 percent are pencil and paper sketchings I do when my tablet isn’t nearby. In terms of form and format, I have explored comic strip work in my efforts to really tell a story through my art. Art curation to me means displaying my truth, and while this means representing my community, it also means critiquing it in my portrayal of its reality. In my piece tackling gentrification, I reflected on the many changes that I personally noticed my childhood community had undergone. This helped raise awareness and incite discourse about the topic, which is important to me as it disproportionately affects low-income Black/Brown/Latinx communities such as mine. 

You often depict women of color in your visual representations. In what ways do your different art forms serve to evoke different sentiments or purposes?

Leslie: Aside from portraiture, I have also used other art forms for different purposes. I’ve done cover artwork for Black musical artists and have helped create visual brand identities for small businesses owned by people of color. I think that while my work for some of these clients can evoke particular sentiments, my reasoning for taking on the task in the first place is primarily for the purpose of helping uplift other creatives and entrepreneurs of color. Knowing what I do about the glass ceiling that exists in the world of media for the voices of minorities, especially Black people, I feel a duty to do whatever I can to open opportunities for others like myself. This means working together and using my platform as best as I can. 

How are you using your art to mobilize funding for different Black Lives Matter?

Leslie: I’ve recently created a piece in celebration of those the movement is fighting to protect. I’ve opened up a shop on RedBubble.com to sell merchandise with my drawing, including stickers, masks, pillows, and more. I am donating all proceeds from any items on my shop that feature my Black Lives Matter drawing to various bail funds, charities, and GoFundMe pages for victims of police brutality.

To connect with Leslie, you can connect with her on her personal and artist Instagram accounts.

A CALL TO ACTION: 

This post is a call to action to all my Black and Afro-Latinx artists, please keep creating. We are the generation that will set the foundation for this century’s evolution of Black consciousness and expression. The revolution is now, and we must all be engines of the cultural revolution so that we represent our essence and not the stereotypes of the racist patriarchy. This is not a light task. Be careful with yourselves. Self preservation is the greatest form of resistance. I am now accepting Black and Afro/Latinx diasporic works. I am also accepting work from any one who holds different identity backgrounds, and is in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter Movement.

Submissions (works and an artist statement of purpose) can be emailed to Shirley Reynozo at shirlsrey@gmail.com.

For more information, please refer to her activism page: Down To Be an Activist or her Instagram page.

[stewiemartins]

The New Apostolic churches, often associated with Pentecostal and Charismatic movements, can pose challenges to democracy due to several factors related to their beliefs, organizational structures, and political engagements:

1. **Authoritarian Leadership**: Many New Apostolic churches are characterized by centralized, hierarchical leadership structures. Leaders, often seen as possessing divine authority or prophetic gifts, can wield significant influence over their congregations. This can undermine democratic principles by discouraging critical thinking, debate, and accountability within the church community and, by extension, in civic engagement.

2. **Theocratic Tendencies**: Some New Apostolic movements advocate for a form of governance that aligns national policies with their religious beliefs, seeking to implement what they perceive as divine laws. This theocratic approach can conflict with the secular nature of democratic systems, which are built on the separation of church and state and the accommodation of diverse beliefs.

3. **Moral Absolutism**: The rigid moral and doctrinal stances often espoused by these churches can lead to an uncompromising political agenda. Issues such as abortion, LGBTQ+ rights, and gender equality are frequently approached with a non-negotiable, absolutist perspective, making consensus-building and democratic deliberation difficult.

4. **Political Mobilization**: New Apostolic churches can have substantial political influence due to their ability to mobilize large, cohesive voting blocs. While political engagement itself is not inherently problematic, the potential for churches to exert disproportionate influence on political processes, candidates, and policies raises concerns about the equitable representation of all citizens' interests.

5. **Intolerance of Pluralism**: The exclusivist nature of some New Apostolic beliefs, which hold their interpretation of Christianity as the sole truth, can lead to intolerance of other religions and secular viewpoints. This intolerance undermines the democratic values of pluralism, inclusivity, and respect for diversity.

6. **Social Fragmentation**: The emphasis on spiritual warfare and the perception of society as divided between believers and non-believers can foster social division. This "us versus them" mentality can erode the social cohesion necessary for a functioning democracy, which relies on the ability of different groups to work together despite their differences.

These factors do not mean that all New Apostolic churches or their members are inherently undemocratic or pose a uniform threat to democracy. Many members of these churches participate positively in democratic societies. However, the outlined challenges highlight potential areas of tension between certain practices and beliefs within these movements and the principles of democratic governance.

Thanks chatgpt

[awesome-luciano-blog]

The Unveiling of Leadership: AI's Impact on Untrained Leaders in Modern Organizations

In the intricate tapestry of today’s organizational landscape, the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is poised to reshape the very fabric of leadership. However, a glaring reality persists within many companies: the prevalence of untrained individuals occupying leadership positions. Often propelled into these roles through means unrelated to leadership prowess, such as office politics or favoritism, these individuals lack the essential skills required to steer teams effectively. Instead of fostering growth and innovation, their presence can stifle progress and hinder organizational success. As AI permeates deeper into organizational structures, its transformative effects promise to unearth and rectify these inadequacies, albeit not without challenges.

The Phenomenon of Untrained Leadership:

The prevalence of untrained leaders within organizations is a multifaceted issue with far-reaching implications. Historically, promotions have often been influenced by factors extraneous to merit, such as personal relationships or tenure within the company. Individuals adept at politicking or adept at ingratiating themselves with higher-ups ascend the corporate ladder, despite lacking the essential leadership competencies required for the role.

The consequences of this phenomenon are manifold. Firstly, it engenders an environment where incompetence is tolerated or even rewarded, leading to a culture of mediocrity. Subordinates, disillusioned by the lack of capable leadership, may become disengaged and demotivated, hampering productivity and innovation. Furthermore, the presence of untrained leaders perpetuates a cycle of inequity, as deserving candidates are overlooked in favor of those adept at playing office politics.

Impact on Mental Health and Diversity & Inclusivity:

The ramifications of untrained leadership extend beyond organizational performance, profoundly affecting employee well-being and diversity initiatives. Incompetent leadership breeds uncertainty and anxiety among team members, who may feel unsupported and undervalued. This can manifest in increased stress levels, decreased job satisfaction, and ultimately, burnout. Moreover, the perpetuation of untrained leaders often occurs at the expense of diverse and inclusive representation within leadership ranks. Marginalized groups, already underrepresented in leadership roles, face additional barriers to advancement in environments where meritocracy is compromised.

AI as a Catalyst for Change:

Enter Artificial Intelligence—a disruptive force poised to redefine the parameters of leadership within organizations. Leveraging advanced algorithms and data analytics, AI has the capacity to identify and assess leadership potential objectively, circumventing biases inherent in traditional promotion processes. By analyzing performance metrics, interpersonal dynamics, and behavioral patterns, AI can pinpoint individuals with the aptitude and inclination for leadership roles, irrespective of their background or personal connections.

Furthermore, AI-powered tools can provide invaluable support to existing leaders, augmenting their decision-making processes and facilitating continuous learning and development. Through personalized coaching modules and real-time feedback mechanisms, AI empowers leaders to hone their skills and adapt to evolving organizational needs. This democratization of leadership development not only cultivates a culture of meritocracy but also fosters inclusivity by providing equitable access to growth opportunities.

Challenges and Considerations:

Despite its transformative potential, the integration of AI in leadership selection and development is not without challenges. Concerns regarding data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the ethical implications of AI-driven decision-making must be addressed proactively. Additionally, the human element of leadership—empathy, intuition, and emotional intelligence—poses a formidable challenge for AI algorithms to replicate fully.

Moreover, the cultural resistance to change within organizations may impede the widespread adoption of AI-powered leadership initiatives. Skepticism and apprehension among employees, particularly those accustomed to traditional hierarchical structures, necessitate robust change management strategies to facilitate a smooth transition.

In conclusion, the advent of AI heralds a new era of leadership—one characterized by objectivity, inclusivity, and efficacy. By harnessing the power of AI, organizations can untether themselves from the constraints of untrained leadership and embrace a future where meritocracy reigns supreme. However, the journey towards AI-enabled leadership is not without its obstacles. It requires a concerted effort to address systemic inequities, mitigate algorithmic biases, and foster a culture of continuous learning and adaptation. Only then can organizations realize the full potential of AI as a catalyst for transformative change in leadership practices, to the benefit of both individuals and the collective whole.

[all-about-politics]

PPP: Perspective on Philippine Politics

The Philippine elections can be considered as a benefit or incentive of democracy. Moreover, it holds paramount significance within the nation's democratic framework, serving as a cornerstone of citizen participation, accountability, and governance. Citizens use their right to vote through the election process, influencing national policies and holding elected officials accountable for their actions. The seamless transition of power after elections demonstrates the resilience and endurance of Philippine democratic institutions. Furthermore, elections allow various perspectives to be heard, encouraging inclusivity and political representation. In short, this process is the epitome of democracy itself.

A Youthful Perspective: Insights into the 2016 and 2022 Philippine Elections

In the context of the 2022 Philippine Elections, I found myself deeply engaged in the complex dynamics of the political landscape, despite my ineligibility to participate through voting during that time. The electoral arena was populated by a diverse array of ten presidential candidates, each aspiring to ascend to the highest level of power. However, the primary focus of national attention was undeniably centered on the contrasting figures of Bongbong Marcos and Leni Robredo, whose campaigns were symbolic of the broader ideological divisions represented by the colors red and pink, respectively. As I immersed myself in the unfolding elections, I endeavored to gain a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted nature of Philippine politics. The campaign period was characterized by intense debate and spirited discussions, with each candidate articulating their vision for the nation's future. This experience deepened my appreciation for the complexities inherent in our democratic system, shedding light on the enduring historical narratives and unresolved controversies that continue to shape the way we view this convoluted phenomenon that we call “politics”. Despite the diversity of perspectives and the vibrant nature of the elections, I held on to an optimistic belief in the underlying unity of purpose that should bind us as a nation. Regrettably, this sentiment was often overshadowed by the prevailing atmosphere of divisiveness and hostility that permeated the political discourse. What began as a quest for democratic dialogue turned into a battleground of ideologies, where the weapon of choice was not reason, but the blunt force of "cancel culture." As I bore witness to this unsettling spectacle, I grappled with the paradox of freedom and expression in a democratic society. For what worth is the right to speak if it is drowned out by the clamor of ignorance and division? The 2022 elections made me confront the stark reality that the path to progress is on the verge of jeopardy, where the noble ideals of democracy are tested by the harsh realities of human nature.

My memories of the 2016 Philippine elections are vivid, filled with the energy of political debates and family discussions. Picture this: I was just 12, and everywhere you looked, it was all about Rodrigo Duterte in red and Mar Roxas in yellow. My family members, including my dad and grandmother, have unwaveringly supported Duterte's candidacy. Their dedication went beyond words, as they immersed themselves in campaign enthusiasm, decorating themselves with a variety of personalized wristbands printed with solidarity phrases and dressed in shirts that acted as representations of their support. From bespoke accessories to finely tailored apparel, their dedication was boundless, creating a vivid portrayal of their passionate devotion to their chosen leader. They proudly wore campaign merchandise and cheered for their chosen candidate. Furthermore, I was surprised by Duterte's use of blunt or vulgar language at times and wondered how he could still win over so many people. As I grew older, I began to understand more about how elections work in the Philippines. I learned about the party-list system, where voters choose parties instead of individual candidates. Looking back, the 2016 elections were a starting point for me to understand Philippine politics. They showed me how passionate people can be about their candidates and how elections determine the fate of democracy in our country.

Beyond the Ballot: Exploring Political Trends in the Philippines

Populism and political dynasties wield profound influence over the Philippine electoral landscape, building the foundation of political power and governance paradigms. Populist narratives often resonate with the masses, charming them through emotive rhetoric and promises of expeditious solutions to a myriad of societal challenges. This rhetoric, however, can catalyze societal division, undermining democratic principles and institutional integrity in the relentless pursuit of authority. Simultaneously, the established dominance of political dynasties perpetuates familial control over key positions, consolidating wealth and influence within a select elite. This dominance suppresses political competition, reduces diversity, and diminishes the significance of the merit-based system. Furthermore, the widespread presence of populism and political dynasties undermines democracy, creating patronage systems and weakening checks and balances. Consequently, governance weakens because policymaking focuses more on maintaining familial domination instead of meeting the various needs of the people. Hence, confronting the pervasive influence of populism and political dynasties emerges as a paramount imperative for preserving democratic norms and fostering inclusive governance within the Philippines.

            I can recall seeing all these issues prevail during the 2022 Philippine Elections. Politicians were more inclined to participate in the latest trends that were surfacing on the web to gain more popularity or votes. For example, to cater to the public’s interest, especially those in classes D and C, they would dance to “Budots”. It is a lively music style hailing from the Philippines, known for its upbeat tempo and catchy tunes that get people moving. It's like a musical party starter, with fast beats and easy-to-follow rhythms that make you want to dance along. Whether you're at a celebration or just need a mood boost, budots is the go-to soundtrack for fun times. In a bid to capture the hearts of voters, several Filipino politicians have turned to the infectious rhythms of this trend, with none more notable than Ramon Bong Revilla Jr., who made waves with his senatorial campaign in 2019, incorporating the lively beats of budots into his campaign events. Personally, I remember a lot of people participating in this trend even more because of Senator Ramon. This made him seem more charismatic and captivating to Filipinos; thus, significantly bolstering his personality. Moreover, the ever-so-constant nature of political dynasties in the Philippines has been making its way through the political landscape for as early as I can remember. In today’s local politics, the sibling duo of Vice-Mayor Bebot Rodriguez and Congressman Rufus Rodriguez dominates. Working in the Vice-Mayor’s office, I witnessed their close collaboration firsthand. On the surface, it appears seamless, with shared resources and a common goal of advancing Cagayan de Oro City. Yet, beneath the facade of efficiency lies the tendency of reduced accountability, limited competition, and the looming threat of corruption and nepotism. Therefore, I came to understand that as an engaged citizen and a voter with a stake in the future of the Philippines, it becomes crucial for us to equip ourselves with knowledge for proper decision-making.

Reforming Electoral Practices: A Personal Perspective

     My vision for the future of Philippine elections is rooted in the fundamental principle of informed and active citizenship. Every individual must exercise their right to vote wisely, thereby safeguarding the integrity of our democratic institutions. In an era filled with misinformation and trends that sway public opinion, it becomes even more crucial for citizens, especially the youth, to resist the persuasion of conformity and instead seek out knowledge. Failure to do so would be akin to self-sabotage, jeopardizing the very foundations of our democracy. Therefore, I envision achieving this vision by leading by example, diligently educating myself and others, and fostering a culture of critical thinking and civic engagement. After all, effecting meaningful change begins with a single voice.

Amidst the turbulent atmosphere of contemporary politics, my experiences during the 2016 and 2022 Philippine Elections, coupled with my tenure in local government, have illuminated the power of unity and collective action. The things that these leaders can accomplish in terms of administration and humanitarian projects/policies are truly remarkable. Despite the prevailing skepticism surrounding political affairs, I remain steadfast in my belief that many public servants are driven by genuine passion and unwavering commitment to their duties. It is these experiences that fuel my optimism and my hopes for continued progress and electoral reform in our nation.

In my personal view, while our electoral process has its merits, there's certainly room for improvement. Specifically, I believe reforms are needed in campaign practices and the pervasive issue of political dynasties. Relying solely on personalities or familial ties in choosing our leaders diminishes the essence of our role as responsible citizens and voters. Instead, we should prioritize voting based on platforms and competence, enabling us to see beyond superficial facades and confront the realities before us.

As I close, let us remember that as young individuals and citizens, we hold the power to shape the future of our nation. It's not just about following the rules; it's about staying true to our moral compass. Upholding integrity and ethical conduct in our electoral processes and democratic engagements is crucial. So, I invite you to be part of this conversation, not only to absorb the personal narratives shared here but also to extract valuable insights for collective growth and progress. Let's engage and empower each other towards a brighter tomorrow.

[miranj8]

Deconstructing Gender and Confronting Stereotypes: A Dive into Judith Butler's Theory and the Power Dynamics of Orientalism

That Welcome to our blog! Here, we look at the fusion of two different media sources. In this short film, Judith Butler discusses gender as a "performative" concept. According to postmodernism, the way something is presented or performed is more important than the reality it is supposed to represent. While our bodies may appear to be inherently tangible, Butler states that our gender identity is not based on our physicality. Instead, she argues that our gender identity emerges from the ongoing practice of gender in our everyday lives. Every interaction therefore becomes an opportunity for us to express and affirm our gender identity. An illustrative case of Butler's concept of gender performativity can be observed in societal norms surrounding attire and conduct. For example, in Western culture, it's customary for women to wear dresses and men to don suits for formal events. However, these fashion choices are not inherently connected to biological sex. Rather, they represent a sequence of performative acts that people partake in to conform to societal standards of what is considered feminine or masculine. By opting to wear garments or partake in activities typically tied to the gender opposite of their own, individuals contest these established norms and challenge the idea that gender is a natural and fixed attribute. Having said that, Butler's emphasis on the socially constructed nature of gender challenges us to reconsider the binaries that frequently limit our understanding of identity and expression. This viewpoint encourages us to embrace a wide range of experiences and identities that challenge rigid societal norms, resulting in a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of gender.

            On the other hand, in today's world, Edward Said's "orientalism" theory remains an important tool for deciphering and dissecting current stereotypes. Said's seminal scholarship revealed how Western societies created a standardized perception of the "Orient," perpetuating power imbalances and strengthening cultural hegemony. One clear example of Orientalism is how Western media and literature depict the Middle East and its inhabitants. Such portrayals often freeze Arab societies in a bygone era, presenting them as exotic, static, and backward. This perspective is rampant in many Hollywood movies and European artworks, where the Middle East is reduced to a landscape filled with deserts, camels, harems, and belly dancers. Moreover, people are frequently shown as being illogical, prone to violence, and overly zealous in their religious beliefs. This Orientalist viewpoint fails to recognize the rich diversity and intricacies of Middle Eastern cultures, instead boiling them down to simplistic stereotypes. These stereotypes then become tools to rationalize and support Western political and economic agendas in the region. While rooted in historical contexts, this theory is especially relevant in today's world, where stereotypes continue to shape perceptions and behaviours. Orientalist ideas persist in media representations shaping public narratives and influencing societal attitudes toward diverse cultures and populations. By acknowledging and critically analyzing these entrenched stereotypes through the lens of Orientalism, we can begin to deconstruct harmful narratives and cultivate a better understanding of identity and culture in our current global context.

Furthermore, Judith Butler's sociological concept of gender performativity and Edward Said's orientalism intersect in their exploration of how social constructs shape our understanding of identity and culture. Both theories challenge conventional wisdom by emphasizing the fluid and socially constructed nature of concepts such as gender and cultural representations of the "Orient." Butler's concept of gender as performative emphasizes the importance of daily interactions in shaping gender identity, whereas Said's orientalism theory reveals how Western societies construct and perpetuate stereotypes of Eastern cultures. These theoretical connections help us better understand contemporary social issues like cultural representation, identity politics, and power dynamics in a globalized world.

Moreover, examining how stereotypes are constructed and perpetuated through gender performativity and Orientalism provides insight into how societal norms and power structures influence our perceptions and behaviours. For example, studying gender performativity can shed light on the experiences of marginalized gender identities while also challenging traditional gender binaries. Similarly, Orientalism analysis can help us understand the persistence of stereotypes and biases about Eastern cultures, which have an impact on issues like racism and cultural appropriation. Overall, both theories emphasize the value of critical thinking and cultural empathy in navigating our interconnected world.

[unrealperson14]

Exploring the Marvels and Implications of 'This Person Does Not Exist': Unraveling the Benefits and Ethical Complexities

In the realm of artificial intelligence (AI), "This Person Does Not Exist" stands as a captivating showcase of the technology's prowess. This innovative platform generates lifelike images of individuals who do not exist in reality, leaving users spellbound by its ability to conjure faces with astonishing realism. However, beyond its mesmerizing facade lie a multitude of benefits and ethical complexities that warrant deeper exploration. In this article, we embark on a journey to unravel the marvels, implications, and ethical considerations surrounding "This Person Does Not Exist."

Revolutionizing Visual Content Creation:

"This Person Does Not Exist" revolutionizes visual content creation by providing an endless supply of diverse and photorealistic faces.

Artists, designers, and content creators benefit from the platform's ability to generate unique and high-quality imagery on demand, eliminating the need for costly photo shoots or stock photo licenses.

Fueling Creativity and Innovation:

The platform sparks creativity and innovation by offering an abundant source of inspiration for various projects, from digital art to marketing campaigns.

Users can explore new concepts, experiment with different visual styles, and push the boundaries of artistic expression using AI-generated imagery.

Time and Cost Efficiency:

"This Person Does Not Exist" saves valuable time and resources by streamlining the process of finding or creating visual assets.

Businesses and individuals can leverage the platform to produce compelling content quickly and affordably, enhancing productivity and reducing production costs.

Enhancing Diversity and Representation:

Traditional stock photo libraries often lack diversity in their representation of race, gender, age, and other demographic factors.

AI-generated imagery from "This Person Does Not Exist" offers a more inclusive approach by showcasing a wide range of facial features and characteristics, promoting diversity and representation in visual media.

Advancing AI Research and Development:

The technology behind "This Person Does Not Exist" fuels advancements in AI research and development, particularly in the fields of computer vision and generative modeling.

Researchers can study the underlying algorithms and techniques used in image generation, leading to improvements in AI capabilities and applications.

Privacy and Consent Considerations:

Despite its benefits, AI-generated imagery raises concerns about privacy and consent, as the faces depicted in the images are not based on real individuals.

Ethical questions arise regarding the use of AI-generated images in contexts where consent cannot be obtained,ia face generator such as advertising or political propaganda.

Potential for Misuse and Manipulation:

The ease of creating convincing fake images using AI technology raises concerns about the potential for misuse and manipulation.

"This Person Does Not Exist" highlights the need for safeguards against the spread of misinformation, identity theft, and other malicious activities facilitated by AI-generated imagery.

Impact on Society and Perception:

The widespread availability of AI-generated imagery has the potential to shape societal norms and perceptions of reality.

As AI becomes increasingly proficient at creating lifelike simulations of human faces, it becomes essential to critically examine its impact on identity, authenticity, and trust in digital media.

Conclusion: "This Person Does Not Exist" serves as both a testament to the remarkable capabilities of AI and a reminder of the ethical complexities inherent in its use. While the platform offers undeniable benefits in terms of creativity, efficiency, and representation, it also raises important questions about privacy, consent, and societal impact. As we navigate the evolving landscape of AI-generated imagery, it is crucial to approach its use with caution, responsibility, and a commitment to ethical principles. By fostering transparency, accountability, and dialogue, we can harness the potential of AI technology while safeguarding individual rights and societal values.

[linhnguyen232]

[Week 4] Reality TV and conflict between fandoms on social media!!

Reality TV? Enlight me!!

Reality television, commonly known as reality TV, stands out as a genre that presents unscripted real-life situations, typically featuring everyday individuals rather than professional actors (Deller 2019). It unfolds the lives, interactions, and experiences of participants, often in competitive or social experiment formats, known for its candid portrayal of events using real people.

A vital aspect of reality TV is its objective to provoke discourse and foster collective viewpoints. The genre's inherent spontaneity depicts real people in various situations, encouraging viewers to analyze and speculate on the validity of the show. 

Reality TV initiates conversations not only in traditional settings such as households, workplaces, and educational institutions but also extends its influence to the online realm. Discussions thrive on forums, blogs, vlogs, and social media platforms, highlighting the genre's dynamic nature and its ability to engage audiences in both offline and online spaces. Reality TV's influence extends beyond immediate viewership, contributing significantly to the evolution of television entertainment and playing a key role in shaping broader cultural trends (Sender 2012). 

Fandom is a dynamic and engaged community that arises from the shared enthusiasm and mutual interest of individuals who engage in discussions and interactions on forums, blogs, vlogs, and social media platforms following the broadcast of a reality show.

Soooo, what are positive attributes of fandoms?

In the realm of reality television and social media, fandoms emerge as powerful conduits for positive engagement and community building (Stewart 2020):

Building Community:

Fandoms foster a sense of community among viewers with shared passion for specific reality TV shows.

Connections are forged among individuals from diverse social and cultural backgrounds.

Encouraging Engagement:

Fandoms actively encourage viewer engagement with television content.

Dynamic discussions and interactions flourish among members of the fandom.

Amplifying Content:

Fandoms utilize social media platforms to amplify content.

Viewers share thoughts and responses, significantly increasing the visibility of the content.

Creating a Sense of Shared Experience:

Fandoms replicate a localized viewing community experience.

Real-time communication enables viewers to share the content experience simultaneously, fostering a sense of shared experience.

Reinforcing National Cultural Identity:

In the context of reality TV and social media, fandoms contribute to reinforcing national cultural identity.

Emphasis on the nation as a shared cultural experiential space enhances the visibility and significance of national cultural identity.

What if they fight?

Social media reality TV fandoms are complicated, and disagreements can go beyond fake stories and character interactions. Social and political conflicts can enter fandom conversations (Chen 2022).

The 24th season of "The Bachelor," which aired in 2020 and starred Peter Weber, was controversial. Victoria Fuller was criticized on social media this season for her apparent role in a White Lives Matter photoshoot. On social media, "The Bachelor" fans debated whether Fuller should be held accountable for her role in the photoshoot. This real-life incident split fans and sparked debates about reality programs' screening of participants and social and political problems. The event showed how a humorous reality program can ignite real-world conversations and fanbase controversy.

The reasons?

Debates on Diversity and Inclusion: Reality show fans regularly discuss representation, diversity, and inclusion, echoing society issues. Reality shows with diverse casts or sensitive topics can spark discussions on social justice and the show's influence on viewers and society.

Media coverage of reality shows may influence public perception, leading to problems when viewers perceive biases, errors, or unfair criticism. This dynamic relationship between fandoms and media sources might lead to intense debates over the show's reception and wider consequences.

Reality Show Fans' Real-World Activism: Fans actively participate in activism relating to their favorite shows. However, this engagement may cause controversy when fans disagree on how to solve the show's social or political issues. This range of fan viewpoints may lead to heated disputes.

References

Chen, A & McCabe, KT 2022, ‘Roses and thorns: Political talk in reality TV subreddits’, New Media & Society, p. 146144482210991, viewed 2 February 2024, <https://doi.org/10.1177/14614448221099180>.

Deller, RA 2019, Reality Television: The Television Phenomenon That Changed the World, Emerald Publishing Limited.

Sender, K 2012, The makeover : reality television and reflexive audiences, New York University Press, New York, viewed 2 February 2024, <https://nyupress.org/9780814740705/the-makeover/>.

Stewart, M 2019, ‘Live tweeting, reality TV and the nation’, International Journal of Cultural Studies, vol. 23, no. 3, pp. 352–367. #MDA20009 #RealityTV #Fandom

[nirmala7210]

The Nuances of Women Empowerment vs. Feminism

In the pursuit of gender equality and social justice, discussions around women empowerment and feminism often take center stage. While the two concepts share common goals, they differ in their approaches and scopes. In this exploration, we delve into the nuances of women empowerment vs. feminism and underline the crucial importance of the need for women empowerment, highlighting the transformative role of NGOs dedicated to this cause.

Women Empowerment: A Holistic Approach to Equality

Women empowerment is a broad and inclusive concept aimed at providing women with the tools, resources, and opportunities to reach their full potential. It encompasses economic, social, and political aspects, recognizing that true empowerment goes beyond mere rhetoric. Empowering women involves dismantling systemic barriers, promoting education, fostering economic independence, and ensuring equal participation in decision-making processes.

The need for women empowerment arises from historical and systemic inequalities that have limited women's access to education, economic opportunities, and leadership roles. Breaking these barriers requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both individual and structural challenges.

Feminism: Advocacy for Gender Equality

Feminism, on the other hand, is a socio-political movement advocating for the rights and equality of all genders, with a historical focus on addressing the oppression and discrimination faced by women. While feminism is inherently linked to the empowerment of women, it operates at a broader societal level, challenging ingrained gender norms and stereotypes.

Feminism often involves activism, policy advocacy, and social change initiatives to address issues such as wage gaps, reproductive rights, and representation in various spheres. Feminists work towards creating a world where gender does not dictate one's opportunities or treatment.

Navigating the Nuances: Empowerment vs. Advocacy

The distinction between women empowerment and feminism lies in their scopes and strategies. Women empowerment is more individual-focused, aiming to uplift women by providing them with the tools and resources needed to overcome personal challenges. This approach recognizes the unique circumstances and aspirations of individual women and seeks to empower them in their specific contexts.

On the other hand, feminism operates on a systemic level, challenging societal structures and norms that perpetuate gender inequality. It seeks to create a more equitable society by addressing issues that affect women collectively. While women empowerment addresses the "how" of empowering individual women, feminism asks the "why" and works towards dismantling the root causes of gender-based discrimination.

The Importance of Women Empowerment: Unlocking Potential

The need for women empowerment is underscored by the transformative impact it has on individuals, communities, and societies as a whole. When women are empowered, they become catalysts for positive change, contributing to economic development, community well-being, and overall societal progress.

Economic Contribution: Empowered women are more likely to participate in the workforce, contributing to economic growth and poverty reduction. By providing women with equal access to education and employment opportunities, societies can unlock the full economic potential of half their population.

Educational Attainment: Women empowerment often starts with education. Ensuring that girls have access to quality education equips them with the skills and knowledge to make informed decisions, pursue careers, and break the cycle of poverty.

Health and Well-being: Empowered women are more likely to have control over their reproductive choices, leading to better family planning and maternal health. Additionally, women who are economically empowered often invest in the health and well-being of their families.

Community Leadership: Women empowerment fosters leadership skills, enabling women to take on active roles in community development. From grassroots initiatives to policymaking, empowered women contribute to shaping a more inclusive and equitable society.

NGOs for Women Empowerment: Agents of Change

NGOs for women empowerment play a pivotal role in driving positive change. These organizations work on the ground, implementing programs that address the specific needs of women in diverse contexts. Whether it's providing vocational training, offering microfinance opportunities, or advocating for policy changes, NGOs are at the forefront of the women empowerment movement.

NGOs serve as catalysts for change by:

Education Initiatives: NGOs often focus on improving educational opportunities for girls, addressing barriers such as gender-based violence and cultural norms that limit access to schooling.

Economic Empowerment Programs: Through skill-building workshops, microfinance initiatives, and entrepreneurship training, NGOs empower women economically, enabling them to achieve financial independence.

Healthcare Initiatives: NGOs work towards improving women's health by providing access to reproductive healthcare, raising awareness about maternal health, and addressing issues such as family planning.

Advocacy and Policy Change: Many NGOs actively engage in advocacy efforts, working to change discriminatory policies and societal attitudes that perpetuate gender inequality.

Conclusion: A Synergistic Approach for Lasting Change

In the discourse of need for women empowerment vs. feminism, it's essential to recognize the complementary nature of these concepts. A synergistic approach that combines individual empowerment with systemic change is crucial for creating lasting, meaningful impact. Empowered women are not only agents of change in their own lives but also catalysts for societal transformation.

[rsolomon1]

Batch 3: Blogs, Oct 6

Required Blog 1: I decided to express myself by using these lyrics from a song by Polo G called Partin Ways: One day, we was lovers and friends But everything gotta come to an end Heartbreak got you runnin' again I just want somethin' real, I don't wanna pretend Really felt connections from the touch of your skin Constantly drinkin', I'm stuck in a binge Are you careless or was it revenge? Crazy what the true colors can blend, oh

Required Blog 2: I expressed my joy by watching my favorite movie that always makes me laugh called "White Chicks".

Required Blog 3: As I further contemplate the burkini ban controversy in France, the nuanced layers of this sociocultural discourse become increasingly evident. The clash between personal expression, religious identity, and the state's pursuit of a unified national ethos raises profound questions about the dynamics of multiculturalism, secularism, and societal harmony. As one navigates the discourse, it becomes apparent that the burkini bans are not just about swimwear or religious symbols; they represent a society grappling with its own identity. The call for a singular French identity, free from religious symbols, reflects a desire for unity but also raises concerns about the potential exclusion of diverse cultural expressions. The ban on religious symbols, from headscarves to the burqa and now the burkini, invites scrutiny into the extent of personal freedom and the state's role in shaping cultural norms. It challenges us to ponder whether such policies inadvertently create an environment of cultural conformity rather than fostering a truly inclusive society. Moving forward, it is essential for French society to engage in open, respectful dialogue that embraces the diversity inherent in its multicultural fabric. While the pursuit of social harmony is not bad, it should not come at the expense of suppressing individual expression or perpetuating a monolithic understanding of national identity. In conclusion, the burkini bans beckon us to reflect on the delicate balance between cultural preservation and integration. By fostering an environment that respects diversity while upholding core societal values, France has the opportunity to redefine its narrative, embracing a more inclusive vision of what it means to live together in harmony.

Sources:

O’Brien, Peter. “Secularism.” The Muslim Question in Europe: Political Controversies and Public Philosophies, Temple University Press, 2016, pp. 144–98. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/j.ctt1kft8dx.8.

Winter, Bronwyn. “Secularism Aboard the Titanic: Feminists and the Debate over the Hijab in France.” Feminist Studies, vol. 32, no. 2, 2006, pp. 279–98. JSTOR, https://doi.org/10.2307/20459087.

Kuru, Ahmet T. “Secularism, State Policies, and Muslims in Europe: Analyzing French Exceptionalism.” Comparative Politics, vol. 41, no. 1, 2008, pp. 1–19. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/20434102.

Cesari, Jocelyne. “The Muslim Presence in France and the United States: Its Consequences for Secularism.” French Politics, Culture & Society, vol. 25, no. 2, 2007, pp. 34–45. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/42843500.

Required Blog 4:

Topic: Muslim Women's Representation in Media in Muslim Majority Nations

Academic Article: East and West Kiss: Gender, Orientalism, and Balkanism in Muslim-Majority Bosnia-Herzegovina

Helms' ethnographic analysis of public and everyday discourses in Bosnia-Herzegovina provides a nuanced understanding of how gender is intricately woven into orientalist and balkanist representations. The shift in these representations, from emphasizing erotic sexuality to framing women as symbols of political threat, reflects broader changes in the geopolitical landscape and societal perceptions.

The article underscores the complexities of gender dynamics in the imagined boundaries of east and west, showing how women become visible symbols of Balkan backwardness. Helms highlights the (re)configurations of east/west dichotomies through gendered notions, revealing a range of competing discourses that, at times, challenge dominant frameworks. However, the argument put forth by Helms suggests that even seemingly alternative (re)articulations may ultimately contribute to the reproduction of gendered notions that perpetuate the opposition between east and west civilizations.

Citation: Helms, Elissa. “East and West Kiss: Gender, Orientalism, and Balkanism in Muslim-Majority Bosnia-Herzegovina.” Slavic Review, vol. 67, no. 1, 2008, pp. 88–119. JSTOR, https://doi.org/10.2307/27652770.

Academic Journal: Islamophobia and Media Portrayals of Muslim Women: A Computational Text Analysis of US News Coverage

This article investigates the portrayal of Muslim women in US news media, applying hypotheses derived from gendered orientalism theories. The author tests two key hypotheses: confirmation bias in news coverage, and the emphasis on women's rights violations and gender inequality in stories about Muslim women. The study utilizes a structural topic model and statistical analysis on thirty-five years of New York Times and Washington Post reporting to explore how media representations may shape public attitudes and influence policies concerning Muslims.

Citation: Terman, Rochelle. “Islamophobia and Media Portrayals of Muslim Women: A Computational Text Analysis of US News Coverage.” International Studies Quarterly, vol. 61, no. 3, 2017, pp. 489–502. JSTOR, https://www.jstor.org/stable/48539029.

[joelcriley]

Leading with Impact - A Senior HR Executive's Accomplishments | Joel Riley Connecticut

Meet Joel C Riley, an accomplished Senior HR Executive whose career spans over two decades. Riley's expertise is grounded in his extensive experience in employee relations, compensation, labor contracts, investigative processes, and training. With numerous management positions under his belt, each with increasing levels of responsibility, his strategic vision has consistently made a significant impact on the organizations he has served. The depth of his knowledge base is a testament to his academic pursuits, holding a Master of Science in Law/Criminal Justice from the University of New Haven, and a Bachelor of Science in Public Administration & Political Science from the University of Rhode Island. His career and contributions are a testament to the multifaceted role of HR executives in today's work environment.

Creating a Culture of Inclusivity and Diversity

One of the standout accomplishments of Riley has been his unwavering commitment to promoting inclusivity and diversity within his organization. He recognized that a diverse workforce is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage. Through a series of initiatives, he has significantly increased the representation of women and minorities in leadership roles. The impact of this accomplishment is evident in improved employee morale and a broader perspective in decision-making processes. Joel Riley CT

Streamlining Recruitment and Onboarding Processes

Recruiting and onboarding are two critical aspects of HR management. Our Senior HR Executive recognized that the traditional methods were time-consuming and often inefficient. In response, they implemented innovative technology solutions to streamline the entire process. These technologies include AI-driven applicant tracking systems and virtual onboarding platforms. This accomplishment not only reduced time-to-hire but also improved the candidate experience, enhancing the organization's reputation in the job market. Joel Riley Connecticut

Developing Leadership Talent from Within

Joel C Riley's approach to developing leadership talent is as innovative as it is effective. Recognizing the inherent potential within his organization, he implemented a comprehensive talent development strategy, focused on identifying and nurturing promising internal candidates. By investing in the skills and capabilities of existing employees, Riley fosters a culture of continuous growth and learning. This strategy does more than just build a pipeline of qualified leadership candidates. It also demonstrably enhances team morale and loyalty, as employees feel valued and see clear paths for advancement. Above all, Riley's commitment to leadership development underscores his belief in the importance of people as the organization's greatest asset.

Driving a Sustainable HR Strategy

Sustainability is not just about environmental concerns; it also extends to practices. He recognized the need for a sustainable strategy that could adapt to changing circumstances and lead to long-term organizational success. They have successfully implemented practices that ensure this department remains agile, responsive, and forward-thinking. By fostering continuous learning and adaptation, the organization is better prepared for whatever the future may hold.

Improving Employee Engagement

Joel C Riley's visionary approach extends beyond nurturing leadership and fostering engagement. He is equally committed to improving employment conditions, ensuring that all members of the organization are provided the opportunities and environment they need to excel. By continuously enhancing policies and investing in comprehensive training programs, Riley contributes to a workplace that values individual growth, fosters equality, and champions continuous learning. His efforts reaffirm his belief in the importance of creating a conducive employment climate for all to thrive, thus furthering his mark as an influential HR leader.

Implementing Data-Driven Decision-Making

Data is the cornerstone of sound decision-making, and this Senior HR Executive understood its power. They introduced data analytics into HR operations, allowing for evidence-based decision-making in areas such as recruitment, performance evaluation, and employee engagement. This data-driven approach has led to more effective and efficient practices in this field, resulting in better organizational outcomes.

Supporting a Healthy Work-Life Balance

In a world where burnout is increasingly common, promoting a healthy work-life balance is crucial. He has instituted policies and practices that encourage employees to prioritize their well-being. Flexible work arrangements, generous leave policies, and a culture that values time off have been instrumental in helping employees achieve a healthier balance between their professional and personal lives.

Fostering a Culture of Continuous Learning

Joel C Riley's adept understanding of the often overlooked power of continuous learning has led to a culture shift within the organization. Recognizing the rapid pace of change in today's business world, he has advocated for the importance of adaptability and constant learning. This dedication is clearly reflected in the organization's robust support for individual development, including the introduction of personalized learning paths for employees. Through this, Riley ensures that employees have the resources needed to evolve their skills and grow in their roles, further solidifying his reputation as a transformative human resources leader.

Balancing Compliance and Employee Freedom

One of the most challenging aspects of human resources management is finding the balance between compliance and employee freedom. He has navigated this delicate tightrope with grace. They have ensured that the organization complies with all relevant labor laws and regulations while also giving employees the autonomy to shape their work experiences. This balance has not only kept the organization on the right side of the law but has also improved employee satisfaction and motivation.

Managing Change with Empathy

Change is a constant in today's business world, and managing it can be a complex and emotional process. He has shown a remarkable ability to lead change with empathy, understanding the anxiety and resistance that often accompany it. They have provided the necessary support and resources to help employees adapt to new circumstances, resulting in smoother transitions and more successful change initiatives.

In the realm of human resources, Joel C Riley has made an indelible mark, demonstrating the value of a people-centric approach to business success. His commitment to continuous learning, employee engagement, leadership development, and an inclusive work environment speaks volumes about his vision and dedication. All these accomplishments, combined with his academic qualifications, extensive experience, and strategic leadership, place Riley at the forefront of the human resources field. His remarkable journey serves as an inspiration for contemporaries and the next generation of  professionals alike, showcasing the transformative power of effective human resources management.