06 Aug 2021

Diversity Lens - Issue 88

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Aug 6

Diversity Lens - Issue 88

Welcome to Diversity Lens.
Diversifying your news consumption.

A common retort when discussing the problem of racism openly is often something along the lines of: ‘why must you be so divisive?’.

I question whether those who are so quick to espouse this critique also apply it when confronted by people who are actually being racist, or whether it’s reserved for occasions when racism is merely mentioned as a problem.

Our story of the week from The Guardian focuses on a recent instance of "white nationalism" and the subversive meaning behind this act.

STORY OF THE WEEK

"Racists told ‘stay away’ from Ben Nevis after banner unfurling" The Guardian

Ahead of International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples which falls on August 9th, The Guardian reports on "far-right activists" who scaled Ben Nevis and unfurled a ‘white lives matter’ banner on the highest peak in the UK.

The purpose of this day is to pay respect to the peoples who were dehumanised, murdered, and displaced from their lands by colonialist nation-states, and those who still suffer at the hands of a global system of privilege and inequality.

The UK is built upon the contribution of a diverse diaspora, everyone belongs equally, and our wild spaces are for everyone. More on this story within the article.

Forward

IN OTHER NEWS...

National Disability Strategy: ‘once in a generation plan’ has been seen before
A 'transformative' National Disability Strategy was announced recently by the UK government, but charities and campaigners are dubious. The £1.6bn strategy to improve the lives of disabled people includes 100 pledges to tackle specific issues, but many of these promises were considered decades ago, to just be repackaged once again as 'new'.Read time: 6 minute s

"Many of the short-term commitments made are to be welcomed, but the strategy as a whole falls short of the transformational plan that many disabled people expected and deserve."

LGBTQ: Wales' bid to be 'most friendly' nation in Europe

The Welsh government has an ambitious action plan in collaboration with LGBTQ+ community members. Their pledges include banning “all aspects” of conversion therapy, reviewing under-reporting of LGBTQ+ hate crimes and designing a more inclusive curriculum.

This plan is designed with the aim to eradicate the threat of homophobic abuse that is a day-to-day reality for many.

Read time: 4 minute s

Footballer to make history as first ever trans athlete to win Olympic medal

A Canadian footballer who goes by the name Quinn identifies as transgender and non-binary, preferring they/them pronouns. The Canadian team are guaranteed to secure either gold or silver following their final game against Sweden. Quinn has been open about their identity, as well as LGBTQIA+ representation in sport - an inspiring role model for many.

Read time: 1.5 minute s

THIS WEEK IN D&I...

The coded language that holds women back at work

Workplace language is important and can have a bigger impact than you might realise. From job applications and marketing materials to the day-to-day communications, the language we use can be heavy with gendered expectations and in turn alienate a lot of people. A whole host of studies back this thinking up, with research on how to avoid such biased language.

Read time: 12 minute s

‘She Said, They Said’: The new podcast from Mermaids

The Mermaids podcast is here! One of the UK’s leading LGBTQ+ charities have unveiled their new podcast for trans people to make their voices heard on the issues that matter - and not just gender. They'll explore the latest news, pop culture and trending topics with a "relaxed authentic vibe". So get listening!Listen here

Vote now!: The Most Influential Women in UK Tech

It's time to vote for Computer Weekly's Most Influential Woman in UK Tech. Let's show our inspiring co-founder of Diversifying.io Cynthia Davis some support!

Cynthia is passionate about improving equal opportunities for people from all walks of life and has made huge strides throughout her career in working towards this mission. We'd really appreciate your support.

Vote Now