#to look at our communities and our culture and how being from the south interacts with our other identities

[area51-escapee]

I hate the attitude people have of “oh this group I don’t care about at all/as much as others is speaking up about their oppression and the problems they face, I can’t believe they think they’re the most oppressed people in the world 🙄” like speaking about about the issues we face isn’t claiming we suffer more than jesus or some shit, especially when those issues largely go ignored by the same people who consider themselves progressives! People in the southern U.S. are oppressed actually! There is so much racism and classism weaponized against those from the south, and the people who are hit hardest by that will always be those in marginalized communities, southern people of color, southern queer people, southern disabled people, you get the fucking picture! And yeah I think we should be allowed to speak up about this, because self righteous liberals up north will lock their car doors when a person of color walks by and then preach to southerners online that we’re all just too poor and stupid to be as good as them! They’ll blame us for our own oppression and tell us to just pack up and abandon our homes and everything we know otherwise we aren’t worthy of their sympathy. Of course I ain’t saying that southerners are the most oppressed group in the whole world but we should still be allowed to talk about the problems we do face, not just from our governments and our neighbors but from people elsewhere who would rather blame us and mock us and leave us behind than DARE to associate with us.

[butts-bouncing-on-the-beltway]

I realized that if I'm disappointed in the transmission of real information about Sudan and the Congo, I can just make the posts myself!

I am not surprised that people haven't been provided a strong understanding of the violence in the global south, but I *am* mad about it.

So let's talk about Sudan and the Congo

Since 2003 or so, an estimated 450,000 Sudanese refugees have fled to Chad, looking for safety from routine waves of ethnic cleansing committed by the Rapid Support Forces and their state/civilian allies.

While the Massalit make up the majority of those attacked, many other ethnicities are included amongst victims. It is NOT a religiously motivated cleansing, as most of those being victimized as well as most of those doing the victimizing are Muslim, and communicate the foundations of the violence as being the result of ethnic-cultural divides in the region current social system. Many of those speaking against the ethnic cleansing occurring agree, and also add that economic interactions appear to be major driving factors in who is targetted and when.

The Congo, meanwhile, has been going through it's own ethnic cleansing. One that has been more or less ongoing since 1996. An approximated 6mil people have been killed since.

Due to this relationship between economic motives and targets, ongoing desertification has been exacerbating violence in the region for years by making resources scarcer, more precious, and less stable to access.

The primary factors being credited with responsibility for this desertification and resultant resource volatility?

Climate change and human impact on the environment (via societal features such as urbanization, agriculture, waste management services, social welfare services, deforestation and bush removal, etc)

From FairPlanet ^

Funny how the global north causes lethal climate change but the global south is forced to die from it.

Funny how the global north forces the environmental recovery conversation to avoid study of environmental imperialism and remain solely focused on "incremental changes that can protect future generations". Whose future generations? What about the people dying NOW because of environmentally toxic industries??

And Nasreldin Atiya Rahamtalla via the International Journal of Social Sciences and Conflict Management says the following:

Hmm, I wonder why local power and social welfare infrastructure in Sudan and especially in Darfur might be diminished from previous governance:

It's almost like the British had a habit of pitting different regional communities against each other along enforced ethnic lines while pillaging some and sparing others, then blowing the whole governance network in a temper tantrum on their way out the door during decolonization, a method of inflicting one last violemt devastation and sabotage peaceful futures most often epitomized by Rwanda and the Belgian Empire:

It's almost like the imperialist businesses that feed off African continental resources and were installed during colonization as a form of economic imperialism were often THE ONLY PARTS of the social system left largely functional after withdrawal and "decolonization". It's almost like imperialism and colonization never actually stopped!!! It just??? Changed shape ☆->¤ still a fuckin crime against humanity my guy!!! Especially when child slaves are dying in your mines!!!

Sudan's economic imperialism comes in the form of Blood Diamonds! You know. The reason that none of us are buying earth mined diamonds anymore when lab made are literally the same goddamn thing RIGHT????????

Oh! They also have oil. The thing we're using to fuel our climate change machine. The climate change machine that's KILLING THEM.

And unfortunately for those of us with Nickel allergies, gold and silver have the same problem. If you haven't already switched to surgical steel, you might wanna. Of course, then we're right back to climate change since steel production allegedly creates a whopping 7% of global emissions due to relying on coke (coal) as a fuel source. So. I dunno really. I like my jewelry as much as anyone. But do I like it enough to know people are dying so I can have it?????

Not really. I'd rather save that risk addition for surgical steel being used in ACTUAL surgeries like the plates, pins, and screws that reattached my foot, or the replacement knee joint that my mom got. At least until we have a body-safe material for these things that ISN'T a source of devastation in the global south.

My point is, basically, that historically militerized conflict almost always stems, at least, in part, from efforts to control resources. It's the most timeless reason to go to war. To make sure you and the people you care about can guarantee themselves access to survival need-meeting. As consumerist and capitalist societies, it is DEEPLY important that we understand the price we ask other people to pay for our luxuries. For our right not to be made uncomfortable by too much radical change too quickly. We need to make that causal link A LOT more visibly explicit and unavoidable, because as it stands, allowing the hierarchy to go unspoken is going to kill billions.

I don't want that on my hands.

I highly recommend learning what civil disobedience and mutual aid infrastructures of care look like. How can we hold corporations (and the individual people who work there) accountable for the countless deaths directly attributable to their profit margins? How can we maximize our local resource distribution to ensure everyone has what they genuinely need to survive, even if that means we take a little less from the community resources for ourselves, or we have to give up things that can't be fully replaced by regionally sustainable alternatives.

I promise that we will adapt.

The dead can't.

[srldesigns6277]

Thank you @enchantedlandcoffee for tagging me a few days ago to share a snippet, I finally got around to trying to post it. This comes from my still currently untitled BTS/Larry fic.

As Louis continued, “Our management is different from yours. I have seen the discussion of HYBE’s relationship with BTS. Your separation is different from ours. Yours is, unfortunately, government-sanctioned rather than based on contracts. Throughout this next year, I would work to find ways to communicate. How is Korea looking to accommodate its biggest asset? You’re the biggest export from Korea besides Samsung, right?” Jungkook and Namjoon gave a quick laugh at Louis’ last sentence, while Yoongi and Taehyung looked a little confused. Quickly, Namjoon translates Louis’ last question for the others, resulting in a bit of a startled laugh from Taehyung and a light smile from Yoongi.  As Louis spoke, the members of BTS understood that Louis was making jokes to ease potential tension.  “In our case, we weren’t considered that valuable. Throughout the course of One Direction, we, as the whole band, were constantly told that we were expendable and that One Direction wasn’t unique in being a boyband that broke records or broke into the United States. We were indebted to the label and Simon Cowell for choosing to make a boyband with us, not other individuals from the show.” “We were kids. We didn’t know to be fully aware of what was in our contracts or how our management company and label would market us. Early on, Harry and I became boyfriends during XFactor; there were some whispers that we could potentially be out and open about our relationship. We even did an interview. One that hasn’t seen the light of day, however. But we were much more open, allowing fans to see us interact and being coupley on our social media. This, of course, halted the minute the band’s investment could be moved beyond just the United Kingdom and Ireland. According to them, we had significant potential to expand our band globally. But that also meant conforming to other culture’s rules on sexuality and gender identity. I’m sure you all received similar media training and discussions once your group moved from a solely South Korea operation to a global one. 

Let me know what you think, this one is taking a while, but I think I've figured out at least where I want it to go. Tagging @thechavier @louisgayvodka @allwaswell16 @itsnotreal

[orthopunkfox]

A Queer Book Rec (and my life story because I'm extra)

This post will be long and semi-autobiographical but I ask my friends to please bear with me as I think it will be beneficial.

I have started rereading (as a form of self care to preserve my sanity) the book Real Queer America by trans journalist and author Samantha Allen (who also currently writes for my favorite queer magazine "Them" and received a GLAAD Media award in 2018 for her work, seriously she's a hero of mine and I really hope to meet her in person one day). Real Queer America is a semi-autobiographical work about queer culture in red states and is one of the first books I read when I came out as trans. In its pages, Allen highlights the thriving queer communities that exist in hostile areas, revealing the beauty of queer culture in some of the most draconian states on record. The fact that she spends a large section of the book in Bloomington, Indiana where she met her now wife (who was studying queer porn at the Kinsey Institute at IU honestly how cool must this couple be?!) is a big bonus for my fellow Hoosiers. I've started a tradition of reading this book at least once a year and those closest to me will often hear me refer to it as my queer bible. It has loads of encouragement for f@gs like me who love our little red states and have no intention of leaving.

When I tell other queer friends that despite having spent time in both New York and LA, I choose to live 20 miles south of the house I grew up in, I’m usually met with confusion and shock. I think most people expect me to be in regular danger of being gang SAd by hillbillies in a cornfield somewhere. But the way I see it, the hills and woods and river valleys of Southern Indiana are my home. I was born here and I have just as much right to live here as anyone. Growing up in a stereotypical conservative evangelical household (I frequently heard my father brag that he voted for Reagan twice) with an healthy dash of emotional and physical abuse (my clearest earliest memory is my mother shoving me out of a dining room chair and throttling me on the ground when I was about 6), being anti LGBTQ+ was a given.

My religiously homophobic parents certainly did not ask for a queer kiddo and yet, God has a sense of humor. And so at the age of 11 when I began struggling with my gender and sexuality, I automatically and correctly assumed that I could not go to my parents for help. The things my parents discovered due to my negligence cost me dearly, threats of conversion therapy and military school from my father and more...direct physical consequences from my mother. My secret boyfriend in high school likely still wonders why I broke off communication with him so suddenly. Had he been able to see the blood dripping on my phone screen from my busted lip as my parents stood over me while I typed the message, it likely would've made things more clear.

And for a while, they succeeded in beating the queer out of me. I succumbed to their alt right rhetoric for many years for my own safety and tried to present myself as the clean cut All American Boy they wished me to be. But, like the many members of the RNC, the Grindr app hidden on my phone and the panties and nightgown in the back of my underwear drawer told the real story. Eventually, I couldn't hide anymore and reached the point where I either needed to come out or unalive myself. So I went no contact with my parents, started injecting hormones into my thigh every five days, and became the glorious trans dyke I am today.

Well that’s not entirely true, I was terrified. And proud. Terriproud? Proudified? I didn’t leave the house unless I was decked out in several pride-themed articles of clothing. Every social interaction with the cishet population was down with a determined scowl and my fist half-cocked, waiting for anyone to give me trouble. The energy expended going to the grocery store was exhausting. Then one day, I looked up and saw an entire group of people ready to embrace me, to love me for the first time in my life for who I was. A fellow trans girl I had never met gave me a ride to Indianapolis to speak out against the anti trans laws coming down the pipe. I got a job at a theatre where there was one cishet person (we called him our diversity hire). I was amazed. There is truly nothing more wonderful on all the earth than queer community. Never before have I seen a group more thoroughly and solidly perform Christ's command to love one another. I found here in southern and central Indiana some beautiful people who help each other get through this ridiculously difficult life, indeed who DO LIFE together, who truly LIVE together. It was amazing!

Even more fascinating to me was beginning to read LGBTQ+ history and finding out it has pretty much always been this way! Through the decades of living in the shadows of history, to the gay liberation movement and Stonewall, through all of it, different outside groups have come and gone. Various religious groups have embraced and rejected LGBTQ+ people, many political candidates have made hollow promises or delivered only half of what they said they would, many people let us down. But we've always had each other.

If you've read my ramblings this far, thank you. And I'd like to get to my point now. We will never have it easy. By definition of being queer, we will always exist outside the norm. And those who want everyone to fall in line will use every tool at their disposal to make that happen. Religious rhetoric. Rule of law. Political grandstanding. Even physical violence. Why? Because they're afraid of us. Having spent years around alt right men, one thing they're fond of saying is "I'm not homophobic cuz I'm not afraid of f@ggots." Bullshit. They're terrified of us. And that’s badass.

So in this time of uncertainty, I want to encourage all of my queer friends all over the US to band together, put pet political idealism aside, and unite for the safety of all of our siblings. 2024 isn't the end of us. It isn't the end of our fight. Scarier people than Trump will rise. Our rights may be taken away. We may indeed go back to the 50s or (God save us) 1939 Germany. But our queer fore-parents lived through those times, and they didn't let that stop them. They forged and hacked out spaces for themselves, they picked a spot, planted themselves in it and DEMANDED to be recognized for who they were. And when those who hated them came and tried to remove them by force, they banded together and fought with bricks and handbags and lunch trays and high heeled shoes. When the first Stonewall riot broke out, Sylvia Rivera, that trans foremother who was dubbed the Rosa Parks of the transgender liberation movement, was told by a friend to stay inside, she responded “I’m not missing a minute of this! It’s the revolution!” Let us carry her spirit with us as we move forward, whatever happens in November. We will always have each other. We will always be here, we will always be queer, whether people get used to it or not.

[beardedmrbean]

Oh right the pan African movement…my middle name is a result of that…anyways

Problem because I lived in the Midwest, then the south, and back to the Midwest. Of course there are lot of overlap. But I wonder how many black people up north knows our people still live in the country?

But as you mention with the nyc boroughs,

If we Americans goes “Savages savages, barely even human!” To a state right next to each other

What the hell you guys expect from Africans?

Also Hurston mention that red rope myth…actually I watching a YouTuber Blair white podcast where she made a comment towards a member of the view show is that does she think life is a Disney movie.

This got me thinking and slowly realize that Africans Americans even into middle age maintain the sanitized version of the slave trades we were told

And we never updated in middle school, seriously I didn’t know about the Africans selling other Africans things until I was a teen on tumblr

Just curious….especially since the left been in control of education for decades-oh wait they scared shitless the racism of 1st and 2nd wave feminism and the damage they did with the sex revolution

Look I’m not a purist…let just a lot of shit my community and other poor ones went through make sense

(Also why my people suspiciously make up 50% of abortions but that another story)

And African nations want reparations? Hmm here what I would probably go like in a un meeting

“Now while slavery is a big stain on human history, the Americas and Europeans countries who participated in the Atlantic slave trade acknowledge it was terrible and made sure to end it. While giving reparations to slaves if they can. But beyond that, the Africans nations who were part of slave owning kingdoms such as the Dahomey will not get refunds…wait, you guys think we wouldn’t eventually find out the truth? After the women king film, the False Eden of Africa you exploited many Americans of slave dispora from don’t work anymore.”

Also like if I ever go to Africa, I’m not trying to spiritually to connect there. I’m genetically mostly Yoruba, but I’m culturally Anglo-Saxon. I’m just want to do research, where my ancestors were from, the environments, the kingdoms and empires they lived in.

But unless I’m married someone from a Yoruba tribe, I’m at the end of day an American. I think my community haven’t come to the realization even when interacting with African immigrants

Problem because I lived in the Midwest, then the south, and back to the Midwest. Of course there are lot of overlap. But I wonder how many black people up north knows our people still live in the country?

I imagine you'll get some of the city folk that will picture them in a very Uncle Remus/Song of the South way, not the whole racist bit so much as just the same way you'd picture the white yokels like Cletus and Brandine on the Simpsons, not racism there just classism.

This got me thinking and slowly realize that Africans Americans even into middle age maintain the sanitized version of the slave trades we were told And we never updated in middle school, seriously I didn’t know about the Africans selling other Africans things until I was a teen on tumblr

I still don't even know how that all got started, if you stop and think about it logically obviously there's going to be people in Africa working with the slave traders, the ruling group wants to remain the ruling group so when someone shows up with boomsticks that make all that being the ruling group even easier they'll take them up on it.

Native Americans were big on that too, territorial expansion and slaughtering and subjugation of your foes is a universal constant in the human species, several species in the rest of the animal kingdom too.

(Also why my people suspiciously make up 50% of abortions but that another story)

Negro Project

They look to be attempting to rehabilitate Margret Sanger in various publications and what not, but the simple fact of the matter is that planned parenthood was founded, in part, to control the black population. Now was it a we don't want any more black children born or was it gotta see if we can help them out of poverty and having 12 kids is not going to make that goal any easier or any other reason the founding of the group had the control of the black population in mind.

They haven't moved away from that really.

And African nations want reparations? Hmm here what I would probably go like in a un meeting “Now while slavery is a big stain on human history, the Americas and Europeans countries who participated in the Atlantic slave trade acknowledge it was terrible and made sure to end it. While giving reparations to slaves if they can. But beyond that, the Africans nations who were part of slave owning kingdoms such as the Dahomey will not get refunds…wait, you guys think we wouldn’t eventually find out the truth? After the women king film, the False Eden of Africa you exploited many Americans of slave dispora from don’t work anymore.”

There's some African countries that have actually apologized for their role in the slave trade, Libya being one of them gaddafi before all that "fun" went down there during the arab spring had done it,

no that it solved anything, Slavery in Mauritania is still a big issue,

In 1981, Mauritania became the last country in the world to officially abolish slavery, when a presidential decree abolished the practice. However, no criminal laws were passed to enforce the ban. In 2007, under international pressure, the government passed a law allowing slaveholders to be prosecuted.

2007, but you know whippo bad or something.

Also like if I ever go to Africa, I’m not trying to spiritually to connect there. I’m genetically mostly Yoruba, but I’m culturally Anglo-Saxon. I’m just want to do research, where my ancestors were from, the environments, the kingdoms and empires they lived in. But unless I’m married someone from a Yoruba tribe, I’m at the end of day an American. I think my community haven’t come to the realization even when interacting with African immigrants

Ya I'd like to see the place where my DNA is from some day, get some drinks and some food and a couple shirts and a coffee mug, end of the day I'm still a purebred American Mutt though, can trace bits of the family tree back to when there was only one Virginia and it was a colony, some pre civil war stuff in Florida too.

Besides, I'm red green colourblind what am I going to do in Ireland besides be handicapped, lol.

[pret-a-porture]

Introduction: Fashion and Globalization

Throughout time, humanity has changed and adapted as a response to all things big and small; The significance of dress to humans means fashion follows. While it's impossible to determine all of the influences fashion has been shaped by throughout its history, it's clear that culture is the most recognizable and influential. Enter globalization; a concept that both unifies and divides culturally, but how is that possible?

Consider the two opposing views on globalization

 Globalization is important in understanding people of different cultures through exposure allowing for “better understanding of foreign values and attitudes. Less stereotyping and fewer misconceptions about other people and cultures”("Globalization Pros and Cons") Still, the loss and exploitation of cultures around us and power imbalance among nations is undeniably a problem due to globalization. ”The loss of traditions associated with globalization is cultural imperialism. For example, the Maasai, an ethnic group in East Africa, are historically pastoral and semi-nomadic. Throughout the past century, many Maasai have transitioned to farming or other occupations besides their traditional lifestyle.”(Garbuio) Perhaps we should aim to find a middle ground; to share cultures worldwide but with emphasis on respect towards the separate origins of the practices, art, and characteristics being shared. This means respecting the sacristy of certain practices towards a culture and knowing when and if participation would be respectful.

Globalization and Cultural Authentication

With an understanding in mind of globalization and its effects on culture comes the question of its relation to cultural authentication. While it’s arguable cultural authentication promotes globalization, a bigger case can be made for globalization’s prompting of cultural authentication. As we globalize, our lines of communication grow faster and more efficiently, allowing contact between people of cultures who wouldn’t have been able to interact with one another prior.  “As more cultures have cross-cultural contact, people begin to change aspects of their cultures by incorporating aspects of different cultures they come into contact with.”(Elder).  An example of this is globalization through immigration and economics between China and Africa. “As the Chinese population in Africa continues to increase along with China’s large economic involvement in Africa’s economy, local African dress styles are absorbing elements of Chinese culture to produce a novel and individualistic Sino-African look”(Liu). 

Studying Globalized fashion

Knowing the advantages and disadvantages of globalization culturally, we can see advantages and setbacks of studying fashion through a global lens. There's benefit in studying cultural fashion on a global scale; it allows a better understanding of our textile, silhouette origins, and pattern usage in conjunction with culture. If respected, diversity can be incorporated into fashion, concerns arise when little care is taken to credit the origins. “The ministry said the companies had taken inspiration from designs created in the south-western state of Oaxaca and called for benefits to be awarded to the communities behind them.”(Marriott). There’s incredible beauty in sharing our ways of life with each other, but we can’t lose sight of the history and significance of our original cultures. Through acknowledgment we find respect, and it is through respect that humanity may continue to grow.

Sources Cited

Elder, Abbey K., et al. “Culture.” Dress Appearance and Diversity in US Society, 1 Aug. 2020, iastate.pressbooks.pub/dressappearancediversity/chapter/culture/#:~:text=As%20more%20cultures%20have%20cross,referred%20to%20as%20cultural%20authentication.

Garbuio, Caleb, and Ella Adams. “Opinion: Big Business Is Killing Cultures.” The Appalachian, 12 Feb. 2021, theappalachianonline.com/opinion-big-business-is-killing-cultures/#:~:text=The%20loss%20of%20traditions%20associated,occupations%20besides%20their%20traditional%20lifestyle.

“Globalization Pros and Cons: Economic, Cultural, Political.” Netivist.Org, netivist.org/debate/globalization-pros-and-cons-economic-cultural-and-political. Accessed 5 June 2023.

Liu, Si Ting (Jess). “The Authentication of Chinese Culture in African Fashion.” Fashion History Timeline, 16 July 2021, fashionhistory.fitnyc.edu/chinese-culture-in-african-fashion/.

Marriott, Hannah. “Mexico Accuses Zara and Anthropologie of Cultural Appropriation.” The Guardian, 1 June 2021, www.theguardian.com/fashion/2021/jun/01/mexico-accuses-zara-and-anthropologie-of-cultural-appropriation.

[papirouge]

I'm the anon that sent you the message about hating the term PoC. Yeah, I pretty much agreee with everything you say. I don't believe much in POC solidarity because our struggles are very different between each other, and trying to paint everything as us vs whites does not really work. Perhaps for americans it does, since they have a very diverse population, but it's more difficult when talking about other countries.

Like latin americans do not have the best relationships between each other, they might share language but have very different cultures. Like the other day I was reading about this cartoon named "Oye primos" that was going to premiere and it was made by a second gen latina, where she looked to represent her growing up in a latin community in the USA, but she was clowned by pretty much every latino leaving outside of America. First, because the name of the cartoon is gramatically wrong (it should be "OIGAN primos, not OYE primos), second, because she used the word "LATINX", which latinos hate, and third, because she named the town the characters live in "Terremoto (Earthquake) Heights" or something like that (people though it was offensive because Mexico and Chile have suffered through a lot of earthquakes). And there's other stuff, like people saying the animation is ugly (very calart) and so on. Some people even started praising Los Casagrande, a spin off of The Loud House with a main mexican family thats not even made by latinos, but its considered far superior.

Sorry, I got a little carried away with that, what I wanted to say it's that its pretty common for latinos to kinda tear each other up, but they unite if they want to clown a "gringo" or something (and yes, they pointed out that the author basically being a 2nd gen makes her a gringa... I guess). Plus a lot of latinos dont like anything that looks "woke", and they considered that show does, so it was doomed from the start. The creator of the show felt pretty overwhelmed by the negative reception, received a lot of backlash and it apparently affected her a lot. I feel pretty bad for her actually.

And yeah, argentinians are actually pretty white, not only because a lot of italians and germans migrated there (if you ever read the names of their national soccer team, you'll notice many names are of italian origin), but because they're at the very south. Chile is also pretty white. But yeah, argentinians have always been pinned as being pretty arrogant and full of themselves, so it doesnt surprise me that they feel they're superior because their team is white. I remember that argentinians and fans of Messi in general were clowning Mbappe for allegedly being in a relationship with a transwoman, so they invented some pretty homophobic chants... soccer fans be like that

Ugh, this got so long,... I was gonna mention asians and their own issues too, but i think it's enough. I did wanted to ask you something though: is France a racist country?? How has your experience being impacted by being black?

Don't be sorry anon, I love these loooong asks where I get to know more my followers 🧡

It's pretty ironic you're talking about Asians because in one of my post where I'm talking about White conservative weaponizing minorities against each other somehow triggered A LOT of people. I even got a comment saying "put the reblogs back I have to give my perspective as someone with Asian/japanese ancestry" and I got like..... "Hm no?" LMAO This girl REALLY thought her opinion was remotely relevant when this was my perspective as Black person and I am not interested about some random Asian take on that issue. Sis really thought my post was a diss against Asians success (I mean every single person who interacted with that post had a negative IQ and entirely missed the post that's why I muted the reblogs) and got like "the cOnsErVatiVes aRe jUst acKnoLedgiNg oUr sUcCesS uwu"...... There's no wonder East Asians are looked down as White people's cucks 💀 IDK, if my community was being weaponized by racist scrotes to dogpile on other I wouldn't go uwuwhy do you mean?uwu about it. How can people have so little self awareness? ...That's why I don't believe in POC and that some communities will actually be more than willing this silence us. Sis really tried to all lives matter my take and I have no patience for that.

And soccer is brain disease tbh. Case in point : the racist Argentinians players dragging Mbappé... Which is a shame bc Messi and him seem to be very cool. Fans are the worst. I think I realized how racist these people were when they said ANTOINE GRIEZMANN (France NT player) wasn't White enough just because his mom was...... Portuguese (when his dad is German)💀

Imagine thinking this man is not White enough when them Argentians be looking like tragic mulattos themselves 💀💀 HE'S LITERALLY THE ARYAN PROTOTYPE 💀💀his name is ANTOINE. THAT'S THE WHITEST FRENCHIEST NAME EVER!! NEVER IN MY LIFE DID I MEET SOMEONE CALLED ANTOINE THAT WASN'T WHIIIIITE 💀💀💀💀

Argentinians living up their nazi heritage ; Portugal ain't white enough lmao...

What's funny with Latins is that they have this thinly veiled superiority complex with Black people.....but highkey are envious of the cultural impact of Black culture worldwide. Latin culture has a load of influence on music, but its impact is not as multifaceted as Black culture (beside music, fashion, hairstyles, make up, slang, etc.). I saw some Latins seethe about Black Panther and the hype the Black community was having from this movie, and Black twitter, in its usual shadiness got like "hmmm don't you have Rio? 🤔" LMAOOOO (it was before Encanto though)

And is France racist? hm... I mean, it's a European country 🥴🥴 but it's definitely one of the least racist one for sure. Non french netizens will do the most about how islamophobic France is, but Islam isn't a race so the problem our country has with Islam isn't much related to race. Because of colonization, France has many territories oversea where its natives are Black, so France is inherently already multiracial, and that's something that many French people acknowledge. I feel like french are more worried about culture than race (ln many aspects, I, as a Christian Black woman, have to bear much less prejudice than a Muslim male, for example). That's why our country is very defensive against Islam (which comes with a whole cultural set) rather than race.

We consider assimilation as a staple and reject self IDing communities (whether they might be sexual, racial, religious). Any stats trying to quantity race, religion or sexuality are ILLEGAL, here. That's why when I see foreign rightoids be like "France is already 25% Muslim!! #greatreplacement" I just know they are full of shit, because such stats are technically illegal...

To give you an example, France leader of the far-FAR right is a Jew...(Eric Zemmour) and a significant amount of people from North Africa/muslim are in the (far) right too.. (many of them change their names to make them sound more french/less Arab such as Jean Messiha lmao)

France itself is a mixed nation between Romans invader and Galicians (basically France indigenous) also some viking mingling in the north(?) That's why french people can be very phenotypically diverse. If you look Griezman (France North type) and Kenji Girac (Southern France type - he's also a gypsy) who are both White french while looking quite different.

Unfortunately nationalism is on the rise, there's an actual revival of neo Nazi (which is hilarious bc France has been invaded/defeated by Nazi and that actual self respecting French rightoids hate Nazism because of that 💀) so I feel like France is getting less sale for foreigners/non Whites. I think France is the best place to live in Europe if you're afraid of racism but yeah, it's getting quite heated here....

[architectuul]

New Digital Architectuul Fellows: DAF

Learning, Interacting and Networking in Architecture, shortly LINA, is a new European architectural platform coordinated by the Faculty of architecture in Ljubljana. A network connecting prominent cultural institutions with emerging practitioners steers the architectural profession towards sustainable, circular and clean practices with highlighting emerging voices. The LINA Architecture Programme is carried out by different  architectural museums, universities, research networks, foundations, triennials, biennials, and other European and Mediterranean architectural organizations. It was born from the Future Architecture platform, created by the Slovenian architect, critic and curator Matevž Čelik.

Under the umbrella of LINA Architectuul will give the opportunity to several fellows under the programme Digital Research Fellowship to join the collaborative online architecture publication and work with Architectuul’s editorial team. I had the opportunity to talk with Architectuul’s Digital Research Fellows 2023 Tevi Allan Mensah, Meriem Chabani (New South), Laura Solsona and Eduard Fernandez (self-office).

What is your current focus in architecture?

Allan Mensah: Architecture has changed and it can’t be the same discipline as it has been for decades. We need to understand that architecture doesn’t necessarily mean to build, it can also be a discipline of communication and research. In such a way one of my main focuses is to research how architecture can become a means of communication.  

Eduard Fernandez: I believe that an architect nowadays cannot do only one specific thing, and that thing cannot be just building. Bringing in other topics could help the architecture discipline to go further with its role within society, especially to open new conversations in other specific fields. In this sense, it is crucial to demand our public institutions to invest in research and culture through financing and new policies in construction, so this is the way new narratives and approaches can be explored. Our office is, in this sense, multidisciplinary: we enter competitions, we have a few private commissions, but we also do research and teaching.

Meriem Chabani: I prioritize vulnerable bodies and territories following the words of bell hooks by putting the margin at the center. I enjoy questioning power dynamics and stakeholder relations, looking for that space of freedom in-between, where my projects explore human practices to inform spatial resolution. In order to tackle the climate crisis, I also deeply believe in a decolonial approach centering overlooked knowledge, practices and bodies from the Global South.

How is your proposal for LINA dealing with such issues?

Allan Mensah: My visual research Borderlands has an idea how the border can be a territory of possibility and of opportunity for architecture. In such a way I can propose ideas to change the way people are perceiving different kinds of territories. Being an architect means creating borders every day with every line that you draw. Therefore I started to cut the word “border” in different synonyms, which creates different positions in architecture. In such a way borders can be displacement, thresholds, it can be an invisible, virtual border, a territory of heterotopy, it can also be a synonym of an island.

Island, project for a moving refuge. | Photo © Tevi Allan Mensah

Meriem Chabani: The research Sacred Grounds is a call for cities to reinvest in the notion of the sacred, bringing about processes of care for the built environment. In secular societies, the sacred has all but disappeared from the urban realm. The buildings that embody sacredness - churches, mosques, and other places of worship - are increasingly removed from the city’s landscape, and stand, for the most part, empty. Elsewhere, monuments offer a rigid approach to collective meaning and memory - often shaped by political agendas - but overall, the urban realm in Western cities holds little space for that which cannot be defiled. In a nutshell, Sacred Grounds is about the restoration of a sacred covenant between people and place, to establish a framework for the creation of value outside of market price, fostering truly sustainable cities.

Could the notion of the “un-defileable” hold a vital significance in the age of climate emergency?

Meriem Chabani: An example can be found in the Algerian desert town of Ghardaia. Built on a hill, Ghardaia is an oasis town of brick and packed earth houses overlooking the Sahara. At its base, a few acres of palm trees grow, while at the top, a single palm tree stands across the mosque. For miles, the trees below and the tree above are the only patches of green visible. A few decades ago, the townspeople decided to expand the city outside of its historical walls and build new houses by cutting down the palm grove. In 2008, heavy rainfall resulted in a flood that destroyed hundreds of homes and killed thirty people. The neighboring town of Beni Isguen, which had preserved the trees growing on its border, was not affected. As a result, in Ghardaia and surrounding towns, the fundamental importance of the palm tree has been re-established. As Muslims, the inhabitants do not worship idols - to them, there is no god but God. Yet the palm trees, if they are not holy, are definitely sacred.

First prototype built at CIVA (Brussels) in summer 2022. | Photo © NEW SOUTH

The story of Ghardaia teaches another lesson: to build a sanctuary isn’t to separate it from the urban landscape; it is simply a way to define, collectively, a priority that is absolute. From this perspective, sacredness could be an economic principle:  by design, the sacred is what lies outside of the reach of human exchanges. If translated into the language of contemporary architecture, the sacred is outside of the grasp of unchecked real estate development.

How did participation in LINA influence your work?

Laura Solsona: When Eduard and I moved back from Australia, where we worked for four years, we applied to LINA with the aim of establishing a network of people with similar interest in the European context. We believe LINA can offer us the opportunity to get involved in contemporary research projects and collaborate with peer architects from different disciplines. The research project Infrastructures of Resistance with use for the application to the LINA open call was produced in 2021 at the University of Technology Sydney. As tutors we did a design studio that investigated alternative forms of ownership to collective housing. Now the next step is to keep developing the project in other European contexts.

Project of the student Boris Mandić from Infrastructures of Resistance studio, University of Technology Sydney. | Photo © self-office

What do you expect from LINA?

Allan Mensah: Well, to be showcased on a European scale is for me a big opportunity because it offers me new connections and the possibility of creating my own network. LINA also changed the format of my research by understanding and learning from involved institutions' needs. It offers me new ways of learning especially with new tools, like being a digital fellow of Architectuul will help to understand and work in digital publishing. Digital publishing via Architectural is a territory of freedom that is completely new to me and I am really excited about learning brand new tools.

Where did you hear about LINA?

Eduard Fernandez: I heard about LINA via e-flux magazine because I’m subscribed to the newsletter. I knew its predecessor, the Future Architecture platform, which I just found out it was formed by most of the same members, which is great. I hope that LINA keeps pushing young architects, editors, organizations, schools of architecture, museums, biennials and triennials to create alternative narratives and a new critical body of work.

What shall the architecture profession become/change in the future?

Allan Mensah: Architecture needs to be able to adapt to another position. As a profession it needs to be more honest and not try only to reproduce answers. In times of complete uncertainty we can’t be in the position that we know everything and we are able to solve all problems because we won’t change the world alone. My idea of the change is not in the way we work, organize, construct, but more the way we are.

Island, project for a moving refuge. | Photo © Tevi Allan Mensah

Laura Solsona: We believe that the figure of the architect that knows about everything and works alone does not exist anymore. An architect is a professional who can establish strategies and is able to coordinate the work in between disciplines. It combines different narratives and goals that take into consideration the limited resources, both material and economic, in each case scenario. Moreover, it is crucial to reframe education of architecture in universities. Shifting towards an educational model that puts the focus on collaboration rather than competition could start changing the attitude towards design and building.

Meriem Chabani: The architecture profession is likely to undergo significant changes in the future, mainly driven by the climate emergency, and shifts in societal needs and values. According to data from the International Energy Agency (IEA), the construction sector is responsible for approximately 36% of total energy-related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions globally. Architects are, and will continue to be expected to design buildings that are more energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and resilient. However, some argue for a more fundamental change, with Charlotte Malterre-Barthes defending a moratorium on new construction (2021). In industrial countries, tomorrow’s cities will mostly be today’s cities, with already densely built urban fabrics. Our industry might be wise to anticipate a shift towards greater care for what is already built, transforming, re-using and expanding on what is already there.

A pavilion calling for cities to reinvest in the notion of the sacred, bringing about processes of care for the built environment. | Photo © New South

Care in which sense?

Meriem Chabani: The standard body for which we design will hopefully also come into question. With increasingly aging populations in Europe and industrialized countries, how we accommodate the needs and care necessary for these bodies will become an essential driver of public policies. Overall, I think these changes are to be celebrated: let’s bring more care into architecture, more diversity both in how and for whom we design.

How hard is it to survive with architecture on today’s market?

Eduard Fernandez: As architects, we have been educated to provide a service to society based on economic growth. What we have learned recently after the Global Financial Crisis, and even Covid-19, is that we do not need new museums, hospitals, housing developments, etc. but rather a more specific approach towards the way we reuse what we have already built and a more sustainable way of living. All this is directly related to architecture, so there needs to be a market shift in this direction. Also, we do not need to build that fast as we have been doing in the last decades. Nowadays, the situation of our society is based on precarity (energy, housing, etc.) so we need to find alternatives to that situation.

Project of the student Boris Mandić from Infrastructures of Resistance studio, University of Technology Sydney. | Photo © self-office

In our office, we want to change the way we think and explain our projects, as we have been taught. New narratives that take into consideration sustainable construction methods, the reuse and recycle of materials and the circular economy. It is hard to survive economically when one has this ambition because it is time consuming, but that is our ambition.

Meriem Chabani: Obviously, this varies depending on the context, but if we’re talking about the construction market, we’re really talking about value. And in this equation, architects find themselves in unfavorable power dynamics. Mainly, what I see everyday are the following difficulties: a profit-driven construction market, with a growing private sector and ever-disappearing public sector; the increasing complexity of the construction process has given way to a specialization of expertise, and an increasing division of the fees associated with it, with small and young architecture practices struggling to keep up and restricted competitions that favor older practices and exclude younger or more innovative approaches.

Faced with an uneven playing field, I strongly believe that we cannot simply play by the rules. We need to understand the rules, the other players and their endgames. Then hack the game, disrupt it, play within and across it, shamelessly. Overall, the architecture industry is constantly evolving, and surviving in it requires a combination of technical expertise, creativity, business savvy, and grit.

Digital Architectuul Fellows 2023: Tevi Allan Mensah, Meriem Chabani (New South), Laura Solsona and Eduard Fernandez (self-office).

[daksh33333]

Unlocking the world with a Spoken English Course: The Road to Fluency

Why Spoken English is Important Real-time expressions in natural fluency in English in everyday life rather than just a dictionary of words and rules. Whether for exchanging business ideas, attending an international conference, or even chatting with friends from other parts of the world, fluently talking in English will open multiple doors to countless opportunities.

While most have a great conceptual understanding of how to write in English, speaking is often the more daunting task. A Spoken English Course is designed for the eventual overcoming of this barrier that will transform you into becoming the most confident and fluent speaker; with little effort, you'll navigate any conversation easily enough.

What Does a Spoken English Course Offer? An all-rounded Spoken English course will train you in every area you need to master in order to be able to speak naturally and confidently. Here's what you can look forward to from a structured course like this:.

Conversational Practice: You will find that interaction in all forms is crucial for improving your speaking ability. Group discussions in spoken English courses often include discussions, role plays, and real-life simulations of many casual settings. Practising'real-life' situations, such as ordering at a restaurant or being interviewed for a job, gives you experience in everyday life situations.

Pronunciation and Accent: One of the most difficult areas in speaking English is pronunciation and neutralizing all sorts of accents that may interfere with clarity in communication. A Spoken English course will guide you on how to improve your pronunciation so that speech is clearly understandable by a native and non-native speaker alike.

Listening and Comprehension Skills: Communication is not always talking but the art of listening as well. Spoken English courses emphasize effective learning of listening, grasping different accents, tones, and speech. In this manner, you would be able to converse with a person who is situated anywhere in the world, say in Japan, China, and South Africa, without feeling lost.

Building up Confidence: Communication in a new language is scary, but of course, confidence is the key to fluency. The Spoken English course gives you a platform to be in a familiar space where you can practice without all fear and judgment. Gradually, you will find yourself more confident to express your thoughts, opinions, and ideas in English.

Grammar in Context: Instead of breaking grammar rules into fragments, the Spoken English course breaks up grammar rules as it weaves them into something practical and conversational. You will pick tenses, sentence structures, and phrases without overthinking the technicalities in actual conversations.

The Power of Fluency Imagine being able to express your ideas fluently when there's a business presentation or easily conversing with colleagues in other countries or friends from other parts of the globe. Fluent English would open your world to experiencing the following:.

Expand Career Opportunities: Many companies, small-scale and giant multinationals, make it an issue to employ effective communication skills in English. Wether you want a promotion in your first job, change to a global company, or seek to be abroad to get a broader horizon of opportunities, then spoken English will boost up your career significantly.

Travel with Ease: English is spoken in over 100 countries. Essentially, it's a necessary adaptation for the traveler. Strong English-speaking skills help you explore cultures, navigate new cities, and interact with locals without worrying about a language barrier.

Build global connections. With our world going more digital, friendships, collaborations, and communities could be all over the globe. Proficiency in the English language opens doors for any kind of opportunity or connection one desires to have because it enables a person to connect with people anywhere in the world to contribute to global discussions and share ideas in international forums.

Learning tailored to every level Whether a beginner or someone who is already an accomplished English speaker, you can always find a level of spoken English courses that cater best to your needs. Each course sets levels that range from basic to advanced, which ensures each learner progresses at his own pace.

For anyone with a busy agenda, it is an online course in spoken English that can be pursued from the comfort of one's own time. With interactive lessons, virtual practice sessions, and personalized feedback from experienced instructors, you can refine your speaking skills from home.

A Lifelong Skill Most important, learning to speak in any language richly continues to aid you in every way, in all walks of life. Therefore, it enhances your social life, assists in professional growth, and gives you confidence in every aspect of your life.

Get Confidence and Start Speaking The bottom line is: a spoken English course is your ticket to the world. Whether it's enhancing one's career, traveling confidently, or speaking correctly in day-to-day conversations, mastering spoken English offers you the tools and capability to prosper in this interlinked world. Don't let the language barriers hold you back. Just follow the journey, practice consistently, and soon you will be speaking fluent, confidence-filled, effortlessness-laden English. The world awaits—start speaking today!

[benjaminwilsons-blog]

Join the Jahva Tribe: Your Gateway to Global Rhythms

Welcome to the Jahva Tribe! If you're looking to immerse yourself in a vibrant world where music transcends borders and genres, you've landed in the right place. Here at Jahva Tribe, we blend deep house with electro and the pulsating rhythms of Amapiano, creating a soundscape that captures the essence of urban culture and beats. Originating from the lively streets of New York, Jahva Music has quickly evolved into a global phenomenon, and we want you to be a part of it!

Discover the Beat of Jahva Music

At Jahva Tribe, we believe that music is more than just sound; it's a universal language that connects us all. Our community is dedicated to those who feel the same pulse of excitement when they hear the first notes of a new track. As a member of Jahva Tribe, you'll have exclusive access to the latest hits, updates on renowned DJs, and invitations to electrifying live events and retreats that span the globe from Ibiza to Miami, London to LA, and even the sunny beaches of the Caribbean and the heart of South Africa, the birthplace of Amapiano.

Challenges in the Music Community

Despite the thrill of music, many enthusiasts face challenges in their journey. Here are some common issues:

1. Finding Like-Minded Souls: It can be tough to connect with fellow music lovers who share your passion.

2. Access to New Music: With countless platforms available, discovering fresh tracks and emerging artists can feel overwhelming.

3. Missing Out on Events: Staying updated on local and global events is often a struggle, leading to missed opportunities to experience music live.

4. Lack of Support: Many music lovers wish they had a supportive community to share their experiences, dance videos, and favorite playlists.

How Jahva Tribe Can Help

This is where the Jahva Tribe comes in. We are more than just a Facebook group; we are a vibrant community built on a shared love for music and connection. Here’s how we address the challenges you face:

1. Connect with the Community: Jahva Tribe offers a platform for you to meet and interact with other music enthusiasts. Share your love for Jahva Music and forge friendships that span the globe.

2. Stay Ahead of the Curve: As a member of Jahva Tribe, you will receive exclusive updates on the hottest tracks and emerging artists. Our community keeps you informed, ensuring you never miss out on the latest music.

3. Event Updates: Get the inside scoop on upcoming events, immersive live sessions, and retreats. Jahva Tribe will be your go-to source for all things music, keeping you connected to the beats that move you.

4. Share Your Passion: Jahva Tribe encourages you to showcase your dance videos, share your favorite music links, and tell your unique stories. This is your space to shine and celebrate the rhythm of life with others who understand your passion.

Why Join Jahva Tribe?

Joining Jahva Tribe means becoming part of something bigger than yourself. Here are some compelling benefits of being a member:

- Exclusive Playlists: Enjoy specially curated playlists that reflect the heart and soul of Jahva Music.

- Networking Opportunities: Connect with artists, DJs, and fellow music lovers who can inspire and support your musical journey.

- Inspiration and Growth: Engage with diverse experiences that expand your understanding of music, culture, and community.

- Global Events: Be part of unforgettable gatherings that celebrate the unity and joy that music brings.

The Power of Music

At Jahva Tribe, we celebrate the incredible power of music to inspire and connect. We believe that every beat has a story, and together, we can create a narrative that spans continents. Whether you’re dancing in your living room or grooving at a festival, Jahva Music can be the soundtrack to your life.

Join the Movement

So, are you ready to elevate your musical experience? Become a member of Jahva Tribe today! Together, let’s amplify our passion, make some noise, and keep the global rhythm thriving. Your journey in the electrifying world of Jahva Music awaits. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to connect, share, and grow with a community that celebrates music in all its forms.

Dive into the vibrant rhythms, meet like-minded individuals, and enjoy exclusive access to everything Jahva Tribe has to offer. Let’s groove to the global beat of Jahva Music and create unforgettable moments together!

Welcome to the Jahva Tribe where music is not just a sound, but a lifestyle! Join us now and be part of a movement that celebrates connection, creativity, and the love of music. Together, we can make waves in the world of music and create a community that truly embodies the spirit of Jahva.

[dangminhh2812]

Personal Statement

My name is Nguyen Dang Minh, and I was born in 2003 in the vibrant city of Hanoi, Vietnam. I spent 21 years of my life there, absorbing the rich culture and traditions that shaped who I am today. Currently, I am living in Songdo, South Korea, pursuing my academic journey at Yonsei University Underwood International College (UIC), where I entered in the fall of 2021. I am now a senior in my first semester, majoring in Culture and Design Management with a second major in Information and Interaction Design.

Since I was a child, I have been fascinated by the world of design and creativity. Growing up in Hanoi, I was surrounded by a perfect blend of historical and contemporary influences. My exposure to both traditional Vietnamese culture and the rapid modernization of the environment around me sparked my interest in design, especially how design shapes our experience and perception of the world. As I explored deeper into the field, I realized that design is not just about aesthetics; it is about creating meaningful and intuitive experiences for people.

During my time at Yonsei UIC, my courses focused heavily on User Interface (UI) design. These classes provided me with a solid foundation in understanding how visual elements, layout, and interactions on digital platforms can influence user behavior. However, I soon realized that while UI is an important aspect of design, it is only one part of a broader field—User Experience (UX). UX is more than just the visual and functional elements of design; It also explores into understanding user needs, behaviors, and emotions. This realization led me to develop a deep interest in UX research methods, which is why I enrolled in the USER EXPERIENCE RESEARCH METHODS course this semester. I look forward to expanding my knowledge of UX and exploring the processes and methodologies for designing user-centered products and services. I hope that this course will equip me with the tools and techniques to conduct thorough research and understand the psychology behind user interactions. I believe that a deep understanding of UX research will help me create more comprehensive and intuitive designs. In a world where technology and design are constantly evolving, keeping the user at the center of the design process is essential. I am passionate about gaining insights into how users think, what drives their behavior, and how we, as designers, can create solutions that resonate with them on a deeper level.

Beyond academics, my passion for art and design extends to my personal life. I have always been drawn to anything creative, whether it is visual art, architecture, fashion, or product design. For me, art is not just a form of expression, but also an interpretation of the world around us. On weekends, I often visit art galleries and exhibitions, where I immerse myself in the works of various artists. These experiences inspire me and fuel my creativity. The ability to see how different artists communicate their ideas through different mediums constantly challenges me to think outside the box and approach design from new perspectives.

One of my biggest dreams is to become a creative director. I envision myself leading creative teams, working on projects that push boundaries and creating designs that are not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful. For me, being a creative director means more than just overseeing the aesthetic direction of a project; it involves guiding the creative process, fostering collaboration, and ensuring that every aspect of the design serves a purpose. I aspire to create experiences that leave a lasting impact on people, whether it be through a beautifully designed product, an immersive brand experience, or an innovative digital platform.

As I continue my journey towards this goal, I am fully aware that there is still so much more to learn and experience. The world of design is incredibly dynamic, with new trends, technologies, and methodologies emerging every day. I am committed to staying curious and adaptable, constantly learning from my surroundings and pushing myself to improve.

Looking ahead, I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead in my final year at Yonsei UIC and beyond. I look forward to continuing to study my UX research skills, developing my creative vision, and work toward my ultimate goal of becoming a creative director. I believe that with a strong foundation in both cultural and design management as well as information and interaction design, I will be well-equipped to take on the challenges of the design industry and make a meaningful impact.

[jcmarchi]

“No one can work in civil engineering alone”

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/no-one-can-work-in-civil-engineering-alone/

“No one can work in civil engineering alone”

Growing up in Colorado Springs, at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, Mikayla Britsch was encouraged to care deeply about the area’s natural resources and the people who lived there. She followed the news from a young age, as did her parents, who were vocal about current events and worked in “people-centric” positions that served members of the public.

Britsch knew that she, too, wanted her work to be socially driven. Living in an extremely car-oriented city, she became interested in public transportation. At MIT, she decided to follow the path of her grandfather, a civil engineer, and majored in civil and environmental engineering, with a minor in Spanish.

“Being a civil engineer is a career but also a vocation, a calling to use math and science to solve societal problems and help or improve communities,” Britsch says. “It calls on you to be in constant dialogue with others. No one can work in civil engineering alone; you work with colleagues, transportation planners, architects, clients, and the public for even the most basic project.”

At MIT, Britsch has studied ways to improve transportation systems and engage with the public, through several research and extracurricular opportunities. She has worked in the Department of Urban Studies for two Undergraduate Research Opportunities, or UROPs, which involved researching different public transit agencies to study their responses to the Covid-19 pandemic. Her capstone project looks at how to deliver packages more efficiently, something Britsch says will make structural systems better for individuals, our environment, and our society.

This research, along with tutoring jobs, teaching and researching abroad, and participating in the mock trial team, has given Britsch a sense of the work she hopes to do in the future. “It would be nice to work in a combination of transportation engineering and public policy, using what I’ve learned at MIT and from the people I’ve met to improve transportation,” she says.

After graduation, Britsch plans to work as a transportation engineer in Colorado before going to graduate school.

Thriving on social interaction

Britsch has an affinity for communication, and considers “talking a lot,” to be one of the most integral aspects of her identity.

Her interest in the Spanish language began in high school, and carried into college, “I fell in love with Spanish. It really clicked in my mind in a way, and I got invested in learning about it,” she says. Britsch is fluent in the language and continues to immerse her studies in the cultures of Spanish-speaking countries.

She values communication in her on-campus jobs as well. She works as a tutor and a tour guide and delights in engaging with new groups of people weekly. Britsch also enjoys socializing with the members of her living community, McCormick Hall, MIT’s all-female dormitory, “It’s very homey. There’s also a lot of safety and community in this space,” she says.

Britsch cites her communities on campus — her close-knit civil engineering major, the mock trial team, and the Lutheran Episcopal Ministry — as other important social outlets. She says she has gained some of her closest friends from these groups, “When you spend so much time in practices and competitions, it becomes a community.”

Following her final mock trial competition last month, Britsch and her team came together for a movie night to celebrate their hard work. Britsch has an ongoing list of her favorite childhood movies she believes “are important for other people to watch,” that she is currently working through with her friends.

Travel, and motivating others

One of Britsch’s goals before starting MIT was to implement her language education abroad in South America, which she did through the MIT International Science and Technology Initiatives (MISTI). Her first MISTI experience was in the summer of 2022 when she traveled to Santiago, Chile, where she worked at the University of Chile researching optimal placements for public electric-vehicle charging stations in the city.

Although she had to overcome the challenges of a different culture, climate, and language dialect, Britsch says the experience was rewarding: “I learned a lot about Chile in my Spanish classes, and it’s a really interesting country.”

Britsch also lived in Mexico in January 2023 and Spain in January 2024 for MIT’s Global Teaching Labs program. She taught statistics, calculus, and algebra to students ranging from preschool to 12th grade. Working in multiple schools and grade levels was a “cool” way to learn about how education varies in other countries, as well as a nostalgic reminder of her time as a grade-school student, she says.

Britsch reflects on her MISTI experiences fondly and claims, “If I could have, I would’ve done it every year.” She hopes to continue visiting Spanish-speaking countries after college and is considering pursuing temporary teaching abroad opportunities in the future.

In her work as a tutor on campus, Britsch finds joy in motivating others in their academic pursuits. She has tutored friends and her dorm members and is employed through the Talented Scholars Resource Room. She is a teaching assistant for an aerospace computer science course as well.

About mentoring, Britsch reflects, “I always relied on myself to do things but when I came to MIT, I realized it’s impossible to rely on just yourself. You can’t be successful without help from other people. A lot of the reason that I like tutoring is because I want to show people that asking for help isn’t a bad thing.”

[tamaradoubraomonibeke]

MP - Presentation and Next Steps (LO3)

Slide 1 - Throughout the whole presentation, I used lower caps to show a sense of familiarity and how personal this topic is to me. I don't have much photos of myself (especially this young), so I was fortunate to find this photo. I used it not only because it's an available digital photo on hand but weddings are a big celebration back at home and I was part of the bridal train for my aunt's wedding. It's all greyed out because it rained, seeped into my grandparent's home and destroyed the pictures of grandchildren on the red board (I appreciate my grandma for keeping such a commemorative photo).

Okay, now the introduction to this idea basically starts with me talking about how I as UX designer struggle with empathy. To empathize doesn't fully mean to understand someone but it's an essential skill of a UX designer to consider how users will feel regarding certain decisions. However, how can I empathize when I've struggled with an identity crises from my religion to ethnic background (just because I can't speak my first language, Ijaw or gone to my home village, people often feel I'm not Nigerian enough) . I mean, no-one really knows who they are but at least, I should have some basic acceptance of my identity.

Slide 2 and 3 - I wanted to be dramatic and if you already have an idea from the flag, you can tell it's Nigeria. For this presentation, I aimed in getting my idea understood, rather than putting a lot of sketches and prototypes (I had problems visually the idea so I looked forward to this presentation as a way to get inspiration)

Slide 4 and 6 - In Visual Communication, our briefings often have aims and learning outcomes. Back at home, a similar format was used to introduce topics which is aims and objectives so I took inspiration from that.

I've noticed in the past, I've had so many IDEAS and this has led to me being unable to fully design and visualize them. This is why I limited my plans to aims and objectives. I aim to not only learn about myself but help enlighten others. On the same pages with the aims, I add the other ideas I had. This shows I didn't limit myself and thought of other ways to approach the FMP.

The objectives are the ways/methods in which I try to achieve set goals. This is through getting the content (asking questions and answering them), using key features of good design; touch, visual and sound (obviously can't get smell and taste). There's also an emotional aspect to it. I want people to feel and experience as much as they can through a digital platform. This is why I decided to ask research questions in the first place.

Slide 5 - This is research I looked at. It's all websites and the keywords I used were 'culture' in it'snicethat. Thus, every single example is related to ways in which websites were created to allow others the freedom to understand and explore other cultures. I also put in keywords like websites, web trends but to no avail, this is what I obtained. I felt I hadn't done enough compared to some other presentations but realized it's more about getting the point across. A significant website I looked at was black elevation.

It's a map and website which essentially has 3D elements (visuals) and users navigate pre-dominantly black places in South America . I think it'd be a good idea to create something similar.

Dot's Feedback

I needed to consider if this a super personal project about my experience or about the people. Although, it's great to talk about the history and all but like she stated, my personal experience is something no-one else can tell. Thus, I'm thinking of leaning on that idea.

She suggested creating a kiosk rather than a regular website which I found insightful.

This was a recommended website/kiosk to garner research from.

Market | Meet Engine. The perfect taste explosion.

It displays an interactive 3D experience of a racer and 70's inspired restaurant serving the best gins. The navigation is sleek and simple. I haven't had an experience this delightful and there's optional music in the backdrop. The cursor design also resonated with me, back when I played web games as a child.

Next steps

Obtain content (not main priority but I will ask the questions) Also, I'm considering

Learn Figma (prototyping) and Spline for 3D models. If time is patient with me, I'll be able to design it on Webflow.

[indiantempledarashan]

Embark on a Spiritual Sojourn with Darashan App: Unveiling the Mystique of India's Temples

India, a land of myriad cultures and ancient traditions, is home to some of the world's most magnificent temples, each echoing tales of spirituality and architectural splendor. If you're seeking a profound connection with divinity, look no further. Darashan App is your key to unlocking the spiritual treasures of India's famous temples, ensuring an immersive and seamless journey that transcends the ordinary.

Why India's Temples?

Spiritual Haven: India's temples are more than architectural marvels; they are sanctuaries of spirituality. Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance, where ancient rituals and devotional hymns create an atmosphere that touches the soul.

Architectural Marvels: Witness the grandeur of centuries-old architecture, from the intricately carved sculptures to towering spires that seem to touch the heavens. Each temple narrates a unique story of artistry and devotion.

Cultural Tapestry: India's temples are woven into the fabric of its diverse culture. From the opulent temples of South India to the ancient wonders of the North, each region boasts a distinct cultural tapestry waiting to be explored.

Your Journey Starts Here: Darashan App - You’re Virtual Temple Guide

Comprehensive Temple Listings: Browse through an extensive database of famous temples, complete with historical insights, architectural highlights, and essential travel information.

Interactive Maps and Itineraries: Seamlessly plan your pilgrimage with our interactive maps and curated itineraries. Whether you're a solo traveler or in a group, our app ensures you don't miss any sacred spot.

Real-Time Updates: Stay informed about temple timings, festivals, and special events. Maximize your experience by being part of the vibrant rituals that define each temple.

Exclusive Offers and Packages: Avail exclusive deals and packages for a hassle-free journey. From accommodation to transportation, we've partnered with trusted services to make your pilgrimage memorable.

Darashan.com Your Online Sanctuary for Temple Exploration

Temple Tales and Traditions: Dive into the rich narratives of our blog, where we unravel the myths, legends, and spiritual teachings associated with each temple. Gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical significance.

Visual Delights: Explore high-quality images and videos capturing the essence of each temple. Let the visuals transport you to the sacred realms, igniting a sense of anticipation for your upcoming pilgrimage.

Community Engagement: Connect with fellow travelers, share your experiences, and seek advice from those who have treaded the spiritual path. Our community is a hub of inspiration and insights.

Reviews and Testimonials: Read firsthand accounts from pilgrims who have used Darashan App. Let their stories inspire and guide you on your journey, reinforcing the reliability and effectiveness of our services.

How to Begin Your Spiritual Odyssey:

Download Darashan App: Available on iOS and Android, our app is your pocket guide to India's temples. Download it today to start planning your spiritual adventure.

Explore Darashan.com: Visit our website to discover a wealth of information, from temple histories to travel tips. Get a glimpse of the beauty that awaits you.

Join the Community: Connect with us on social media and become part of a community that shares a passion for spiritual exploration. Share your stories, seek advice, and inspire others on their journey.

Embark on a Journey of a Lifetime:

India's temples are waiting to unfold their secrets to you. Let

Darashan App and Darashan.com be your companions on this transformative journey. Download our app, explore our website, and step into a world where spirituality meets serenity. Your path to divine discovery begins here. Start your odyssey today.

[iln2001contextualstudies]

Introduction to my project Living Ecology.

Ecology:

- the study of organisms and how they interact with the environments around them.

With the previously focusing on the Human/Nature Divide I am now switching my attention to the other side of that: humans who interact with their environments in different, conscious and symbiotic ways. I want this to be a sort of observation, or tribute, to considering the way we live: in conscious harmony or in stark separation from the natural world.

In the first two weeks of research I started with a broad approach, looking at the literal definition of Ecology, it’s significance and well known ecologists such as John Muir, Rachel Carson, David Suzuki, Jane Goodall… As I researched I began to visualize my graphic media project, a sort of expansion of these humans in ecology in visual form, lino cut prints that lay out visual maps and connections between themselves, their lives and nature.

This is what I will be creating for the visual graphic media project side: a scrawling book of cuts and prints, maybe mixed media alongside, to portray the conscious ecological living that a few humans of my choice are exploring. I would like to create a 12 week project, images of these humans and their stories, as a visual tributary in comment of lives in today’s societies that still remain diverse and consciously directed in ecology.

Immediately, I began to try to remember humans in could bring into this research project. I wanted to research Kimi Werner further; (someone I have been fascinated with for 6 years or so) a woman who explores life as a professional free diver, a mother, a woman with ancestry and community. ( the Haenyeo Women who are free divers and fishers off the coast of Jeju Island, South Korea.) I also began to dig a little further with a video interview: The Green Interviews, David Suzuki, on Being Part of Nature.

Video key notes and phrases that sparked thought:

-the loss and isolation from nature in a world in a highly mobile world,

-drive towards modernity and progress ending in loss of languages and cultures and species leading to a homogenized society.

“Diversity is the key of Life and Resilience in human societies.” D. Suzuki

How can we live that way too? What questions does it raise, what balance is there between our fast paced lives and the consideration, care and connection to the natural world under our feet and in our lungs.

Side Notes: While reading, I heard the phrase Mountain men and River women. It had me thinking of a new shift this research could take…. Who are a few of these humans that live outside the mentality of “Modernity and Progress.”

Having this project start in January, a mentally hard month for me with London grey weather and February being no better, I am really interested to see how this project evolves as spring comes. The concept of living WITH nature almost feels too far away in January and February, but easily imagined in March!

List of sources so far:

Kanopy: the Green Interview, David Suzuki: on Being Part of Nature.

Video and website sources:

[steampoweredshow]

What is your personal worth? From an internal perspective, it's about having confidence in your sense of self and your values. But let's expand on that. Your worth can also be viewed in the connections you have made in your personal or professional communities, be it the kids' soccer parent who knows a job you'd be great for, or the ex-coworker whose passion project is your passion, too. It's also of course your financial position and what you can do to change it. Because growth in all these areas gives you more space to grow as well.

Join us as we speak with Sirisha Kuchimanchi, entrepreneur, speaker, and former engineering and manufacturing executive, about navigating her career through economic downturns, and how the different aspects of your personal worth give you more options.

About Dr Sirisha Kuchimanchi

Dr Sirisha Kuchimanchi is the Founder of "Sahita", a Global Community for South Asian Women for Career & Financial Empowerment. She is an active investor supporting Women funded businesses.

Her aim is to promote gender equity by empowering more women to take control of their careers and finances. Sirisha is a Former Engineering & Manufacturing Executive with over 17 years of experience at Texas Instruments (Fortune 200) a Semiconductor Design and Manufacturing Company. She co-chaired the Technology & Manufacturing Women’s ERG which supported over 500 women across 3 continents and 8 countries.

Sirisha hosts the podcast "Women, Career & Life", ranked at the top 30% on Spotify, where she provides practical ideas and resources for women to further their career & life goals. She also hosts a weekly Live Radio Talk Show "Life Beats with Sirisha" on 104.1 FM which has a reach of over half a million listeners from the South Asian Community. She strives to create a platform for diverse voices and perspectives to be heard, so listeners can succeed both personally and professionally while building a stronger community.

Sirisha is on the elected Board of Governors of The Podcast Academy which supports podcast makers and globally advances the cultural merit of the medium. Sirisha successfully traversed her return to work after getting laid off less than a year after entering the corporate world. A few years later, Sirisha made a conscious decision to be a stay-at-home mum during which time Sirisha earned her Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sirisha-kuchimanchi/ Instagram:

Watch or listen on your favourite platform.

Show Notes

[00:01:05] Sirisha's beginnings in physics. [00:02:43] The transition to material science and engineering. [00:04:24] The value of being able to explore the industry while pursuing higher studies. [00:05:34] We all leave social breadcrumbs and create networks through our interactions. [00:07:13] The experience of layoffs. [00:09:40] The contrast of working as a contractor vs a permanent employee. [00:10:33] Sirisha's second career break and the decision to return to school. [00:14:25] Sometimes the market makes the decision for you. [00:15:25] Financial literacy and preparation gives you choices and flexibility. [00:16:37] Looking after our financial futures because work shouldn't dictate our lives. [00:21:04] The stigma attached to speaking about money or death matters. [00:23:31] Risk management and your priorities. [00:25:44] Everyone is a potential candidate for an information interview. [00:28:23] The grass is always greener. But you don't know unless you try. [00:30:36] Your background and culture in a work context as an asset or liability. [00:34:06] Ask for what you want, but you have to know what you want first. [00:35:29] Considerations as a woman or POC in leadership. [00:37:29] Leveraging what you know and building relationships with people. [00:40:51] What advice would you give someone who would like to do what you do, and what advice should they ignore?

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