#Creating a supportive and inclusive environment

[wisekiss22]

Proven Inclusion and Empowerment in Mentally Challenged Kids

In a world focused on differences and limitations, it’s important to take a moment to celebrate the unique strengths and abilities of mentally challenged kids. Every child, regardless of their mental abilities, is capable of achieving great things. This article will explore the importance of promoting inclusion and empowerment for these amazing individuals. Empathy, creativity, and perseverance…

[itgetsbetter]

🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️ GOOD queer news for the TL: a bunch of students across the U.S. are using grants to make their schools more welcoming for LGBTQ+ youth

Queer students deserve to feel safe at school! We're in our third year of giving grants to put the power in their hands to make their schools more welcoming - students know what they need most in their own communities and their own schools.

Through 50 States, 50 Grants, 5,000 Voices, we've awarded over $1.5 million in grants across the U.S. to support student-led projects. Our third season has some of the most badass projects yet, like these:

❤️ “With this grant, we’ll establish an LGBTQIA+ community space in the library, open to all students, with guest speakers, arts and crafts, LGBTQIA+ books and literature, and LGBTQIA+-specific resources.” - Pocatello, Idaho

🧡 “Our project aims to support LGBTQ+ students through teacher training, development of gender-neutral bathroom protocols, and the organization of a district-wide Queer Prom.” - Gypsum, Colorado

💛 “We’ll take students from the 3 middle schools and our local high school to Honolulu Pride to make local LGBTQ+ friends, feel accepted in a large group, and see the community beyond just school.” - Ewa Beach, Hawai'i

💚 “We’re going to increase access to queer literature by working with a local nonprofit to expand our school’s collection, host storytelling events, and foster community connection." - Mobile, Alabama

💙 “Our plan is to create new Inclusivity Zones across the state in critical areas for local GSA clubs to meet, plan shared events, and be their own safe space.” - Charleston, West Virginia

💜 “We’ll host the Rainbow Youth Summit for LGBTQIA+ youth from across southern California to network, learn, and have fun in a safe, judgement free and supportive environment.” - Cathedral City, California

These students are truly the definition of making things better - you can see the rest of the amazing projects lined up across the country on our blog here!

[thequestionsofmychild]

How many bits of air are there?

We were in the car one day, and going out as a family and I could hear my son breathing quite heavily and he asked…… “How many bits of air are there?” My son loves numbers, he always wants to know how many things there are, how things are measured etc so this question didn’t surprise me at all. But I actually had no idea about this. I didn’t even know how air was measured!!! But my son liked to…

[sreehari28]

Employee feedback is critical for millennials and Gen Zs as it supports their development, fosters continuous learning, enhances engagement and motivation, promotes collaboration and inclusion, recognizes their achievements, enables transparent communication, and ultimately improves retention and satisfaction levels. By prioritizing employee feedback, organizations can create an environment that attracts, engages, and retains the younger workforce.

[the-bengali-diva]

GUYS IS AMERICA FINALLY ON IT'S PATH ON MAKING FUCKING CONCENTRATION CAMPS?!!

My aunt who lives in California, just sent me this msg that she got,

Hello BAS family,

Happy Wednesday!

Please read this important message from LACOE.

Los Angeles County of Schools Superintendent

Dr. Debra Duardo Statement on the

Sensitive Locations Policy Overturn

"In light of the new administration’s action today to overturn the sensitive locations policy, I want to reassure our education community that the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) remains steadfastly committed to ensuring that every student, regardless of their immigration status, has access to a safe, secure and nurturing learning environment.

The sensitive locations policy previously prevented Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from arresting immigrants in places such as schools, churches and hospitals. The change to the policy does not overrule the student’s constitutional right to an education. It also does not overrule state constitutional protections.

It is important to reinforce that all students possess the right to a public education, independent of their immigration status. Our schools are mandated to ensure that no student is denied enrollment or faced with barriers to their educational opportunities based on their or their family’s immigration status.

Our schools serve as safe havens for our students and families.

It is imperative that we stand united in our unwavering commitment to the education and well-being of every student within our county. As educators and leaders, we are responsible for creating and maintaining an environment where all students feel valued, secure and protected. Together, we can foster inclusive learning spaces and reflect the rich diversity of our communities."

For more information and resources about immigration rights and schools visit LACOE’s website.

You have constitutional rights:

DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR if an immigration agent is knocking on the door.

DO NOT ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS from an immigration agent if they try to talk to you. You have the right to remain silent.

DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING without first speaking to a lawyer. You have the right to speak with a lawyer.

If you are outside of your home, ask the agent if you are free to leave and if they say yes, leave calmly.

If you are inside of your home, do not give the agent permission to enter your home based on your 4th Amendment rights under the United States Constitution unless the agent has a warrant to enter, signed by a judge or magistrate with your name on it. Ask the agent to slide the document under the door or show it to you through the window.

Thank you for supporting our adult learners.

Juan Noguera

Director

Burbank Adult School / FACTS Program

3811 W Allan Ave, Burbank CA 91505

(818) 729-5950 xtn 33901

Follow us on social media (just click on your favorite link)

How aren't more people talking about this?!!! Everything is in front of us why aren't you all seeing it?!!!!

[grantmentis]

It has become abundantly clear that the PWHL is intent to just be as vague as possible on trans issues and hope they don’t piss anyone off in order to get everyone’s money.

Despite journalists asking monthly, they still have not created a gender inclusion policy. After the incident with Curl, the league made sure to never say anything explicitly against transphobia but just make general statements about the league being an ~inclusive environment. The PA has also never made an explicit statement supporting trans athletes (but have made general support of pride month and gone to Pride events, and past and present players have individually expressed support)

This is not unique to the PWHL, most other sports leagues are in the same boat. A lot of the mainstream majority men’s leagues rarely even can muster up any support for general pride initiatives (and when they do it’s usually led by individual players), where as majority women’s leagues usually do embrace LGBT+ initiatives but leave support for trans people and trans right initiatives purposefully vague. This is, however, ultimately a PWHL blog so I’m going to focus on them here.

if we understand the role the PWHL plays as role models and spokespeople for women’s hockey - something the league and the PA has embraced and marketed themselves as - then we can understand why it sucks that the league and many of its leading voices refuse to lend more explicit support. PWHL players are also in a unique position where quite a few of them actually have played with a trans woman in the cwhl/pwhpa, many played with a trans man in the phf, and they have an active nonbinary player now.

Affirming support of trans people through both clear words and actions is a necessity, first and foremost, because we have a responsibility protecting the most vulnerable members of our communities from injustice and violence. But it’s also important to point out that trying to be vague in order to avoid backlash from conservatives is not going to work, because the inevitable endpoint of this rhetoric is that athletic excellence is outside the realm of possibility for women as a whole and that any woman who is a great athlete is not actually a woman, which we’ve seen time and time again now. This is not to say that everyone is equally in danger to this, nor that the act of protecting trans people isn’t a necessary action on its own, rather i am just addressing what the scope of this really is. We’ve already seen multiple Olympians and other professional athletes get “transvestigated” and experience harassment campaigns (disproportionately, these have been Black athletes) and shady sports organizations use hormone level tests to try to bar athletes they don’t like from competing. The fight for the inclusion for trans people in sport is ultimately a fight for human rights, for bodily autonomy, for labor rights, and for gender equity and participation in sports

[dandelionsresilience]

Good News - May 15-21

Like these weekly compilations? Support me on Ko-fi! Also, if you tip me on Ko-fi, at the end of the month I'll send you a link to all of the articles I found but didn't use each week - almost double the content!

1. Translocation of 2,000 rhinos in Africa gets underway in “one of the most audacious conservation efforts of modern times”

“The 2,000 rhinos - more than are currently found in any single wild location in Africa - represent around 12-15% of the continent’s remaining white rhino population. […] “Rhinos perform an important ecological function in the environment as a large grazing herbivore,” says Dale Wepener[….] “The protection of rhino is far more than just looking after rhino; other species that occur in the protected areas will benefit from the protection,” explains Jooste. “This will lead to an increase in diversity and result in much healthier ecosystems.”

2. Florida Corridor Buffers Effects of Climate Change on Wildlife — And People

“A massive multi-partner effort that has conserved 10 million acres for wildlife in Florida over past decades will help buffer wildlife—and people—from the effects of climate change, a new report says. […] Protecting these corridors is important for wildlife genetics, demography and connectivity […], conducting prescribed fires in the corridor can reduce the risk of more intense wildfires [… and] they can provide buffers against hurricanes and seasonal thunderstorms.”

3. Global life expectancy to increase by nearly 5 years by 2050 despite geopolitical, metabolic, and environmental threats

“Increases are expected to be largest in countries where life expectancy is lower, contributing to a convergence of increased life expectancy across geographies. The trend is largely driven by public health measures that have prevented and improved survival rates from cardiovascular diseases, COVID-19, and a range of communicable, maternal, neonatal, and nutritional diseases (CMNNs).”

4. Valencia has Spain’s longest urban park

“Jardin del Turia (Turia Garden) is the green spine of the City of Valencia and Spain’s (and possibly Europe’s) longest urban park stretching for a length of 8.5 kilometres [… and] the current administration plans to make Jardin del Turia Europe’s largest city green space by extending it to the sea[….] Almost all Valencia residents (97 per cent) live within 300 metres of an urban green space. […] Jardin del Turia is a true urban oasis that provides exceptional thermal comfort, with a temperature difference of up to three degrees compared to other areas of the city.”

5. This Paint Could Clean Both Itself and the Air

“When an artificial ultraviolet light source shines on [photocatalytic] paint, the nanoparticles react with pollutants to make them break down—theoretically removing them from the nearby air and preventing a discoloring buildup. [… R]esearchers developed a new photocatalytic paint that they claim works using UV rays from ordinary sunlight, making its self-cleaning properties easier to activate. They’ve also shown that they can effectively produce this paint from recycled materials [including fallen leaves].”

6. Planting Seedlings for a Cooler Rockingham

“A dedicated group of volunteers recently planted over a thousand native seedlings in Lewington Reserve [… and] re-established canopy cover to areas of the reserve to create cooling shade for the local community and provide homes for native wildlife. […] Planting lots of trees and shrubs in urban areas can help create shade and cool cities, mitigating the impacts of climate change, contributing to biodiversity conservation and building greener, more resilient communities.”

7. Sydney’s first dedicated affordable housing for trans women designed to deliver ‘positive outcomes’

“Community housing provider and charity Common Equity NSW, […] which is for people on very low to moderate incomes, prides itself on creating inclusive living and promotes the independence and well-being of people and communities […, and] will deliver the first-of-its-kind social housing in a bid to provide a safe place to live for transgender women seeking an affordable home.”

8. Rewilding: How a herd of bison reintroduced to Romania is helping ‘supercharge’ carbon removal

“170 European Bison reintroduced to Romania’s Țarcu mountains could help capture and store the carbon released by up to 84,000 average US petrol cars each year. […] By grazing a 48 square kilometre area of grassland in a wider landscape of 300 kilometres squared, they helped to capture an additional 54,000 tonnes of carbon each year. That is around 10 times the amount that would be captured by the ecosystem without the bison.”

9. World’s biggest grids could be powered by renewables, with little or no storage

“[…] 100% renewable supply can then match the load by putting surplus electricity into two kinds of distributed storage worth that [an energy expert] says are worth buying anyway – ice-storage air-conditioning and smart bidirectional charging of electric cars, and recover that energy when needed, filling the last gaps with unobtrusively flexible demand.”

10. Supporting the Long-Term Survival of Copper River Salmon and Alaska Native Traditions

“With $4.3 million in NOAA funds, the Copper River Watershed Project and The Eyak Corporation will remove fish passage barriers, opening more streams for salmon spawning and subsistence fishing. [… As part of this effort, o]ld narrow culverts that constrict water flow will be replaced with “stream simulation” culverts wide enough to fit the full stream, including its banks. They are also deep to allow contractors to place stones and other material inside to mimic a natural stream bottom.”

May 8-14 news here | (all credit for images and written material can be found at the source linked; I don’t claim credit for anything but curating.)

[mbari-blog]

This International Women’s Day, MBARI celebrates the women who dedicate their lives to studying, understanding, and communicating the wonders of our ocean. 🌎️✨️⁠

Their passion, expertise, and commitment to learning about and conserving the marine world inspire future generations to continue exploring and protecting our blue planet.

MBARI was founded on the belief that ocean exploration and technological innovation are deeply interdisciplinary activities that benefit from diverse teams guided by a shared passion, mission, and vision.

By building an inclusive and welcoming environment, we embrace how diversity in our collective experience, abilities, and perspectives informs our work and how we share it with the broader community.

Together, we will develop and implement new ideas, assess our progress, listen to each other, and have the courage to engage in difficult conversations as we not only innovate and improve technology but also ensure our entire team is empowered to support MBARI’s mission.⁠ ⁠ Join our team in creating a more inclusive ocean research community: https://www.mbari.org/about/careers/

[hwasfeatherduster]

WHY I LOVE ATEEZ.

I just wanna say that as a black K-pop fan, Ateez is the only group that ever made me feel accepted in this community. As an international fan , we are already told that k-pop is for koreans. As a black k-pop stan we are told that

Koreans do not like black people and they are racist towards us

We could never pull any of the idols we like because none would ever be interested in anyone that is black

We should be embarrassed for supporting k-pop because they don't like black people.

After seeing San's interview, I can honestly say that they are the first and only group that I have ever supported that NEVER ONCE made me feel unaccepted.

San's interview proves that they are just all around very accepting, inclusive and really mean it when they say that their music is for everyone. Never have I felt that if I were to ever meet them on the street (as a fan or not) that they would be racist or rude to me. I genuinely do not believe that any one of them would ever be racist, sexist, homophobic, etc. I can't say the same for other groups.

This was my random rant but I just wanted to say that I am happy and proud that my ult group is Ateez. They truly represent everything that I believe in and they continue to create a safe, inclusive and accepting environment for all their fans. And it's not an act, it's just who they are.

[hard-roller-derby]

Today, we proudly observe International Transgender Day of Visibility, a day dedicated to celebrating the resilience, accomplishments, and contributions of transgender and gender non-conforming individuals across the globe. This is not just a moment to recognize their achievements, but also an opportunity to stand together and raise awareness of the challenges they face, while advocating for equality and inclusivity for all.

Transgender Day of Visibility is a reminder that visibility is about more than just being seen — it’s about honoring the humanity, dignity, and rights of transgender people. We recognize the importance of creating spaces where trans individuals feel safe, valued, and supported, and where their voices can be heard and respected. As a community, we are committed to ensuring that our trans members are not only accepted but cared for with the same compassion and respect that all individuals deserve.

On this day, let’s take time to reflect on how we can be better allies to the trans community. Let’s commit to educating ourselves, challenging harmful stereotypes, and taking actions that foster an environment of acceptance and affirmation for people of all gender identities. We strive to build a world where everyone — regardless of their gender identity — can live authentically, safely, and without fear of discrimination or violence.

To our transgender members, we want you to know that you are seen, you are valued, and you are an essential part of our community. Your courage, strength, and authenticity inspire us every day.

Happy Transgender Day of Visibility! Let’s continue to celebrate diversity, champion inclusivity, and lift up every voice, every day. 💖🤍💙

[fairytalegonewronga03]

Over the past few weeks, there's been a growing desire to create a community space on Discord that feels safe and welcoming for everyone. The goal is to build a well-moderated environment that does not tolerate hateful fandom discourse—a place where members can support each other in writing, creating art, and sharing joy over beloved ships, all while fostering a positive and inclusive atmosphere.

This space is intended to celebrate the freedom to ship without judgment or the pressure to defend preferences. It’s a community where no one feels discouraged or overlooked, and where members uplift one another. A place to exchange ideas, share stories and artwork, and help each other connect with new readers and friends. The hope is to refocus on creativity, collaboration, and joy—because there's already enough negativity in the world, and fandom spaces deserve to be encouraging and fun.

While the server has a BuckTommy focus, all ships are welcome and encouraged, provided interactions remain respectful and kind to fellow members. Whether you want to share your latest fic, gush about your favorite ship, or just connect with fellow fans, there's a place for you here. If this sounds like the right environment, feel free to reach out to receive the Discord invite! Bring your OTPs, rarepairs, and chaotic headcanons—we’re ready for all of it! 🩷🩵💜

[umlewis]

Lewis Hamilton Urges UK Education Reform: "Something Needs To Change"

Lewis Hamilton has urged the UK government to implement educational reform after new data highlighted the concerns of young students and those from a vulnerable background.

Seven-time F1 world champion Hamilton, 40, has previously spoken of being racially abused at school and admitted he felt as though he "didn't belong or matter" as a student. Hamilton's foundation, Mission 44, last year launched a Nothing Happens In Isolation campaign, with a focus on the high rates of suspensions and exclusions in schools across the country. Now, a new survey has highlighted the issues young people face. Among the most glaring statistics, 41% of young people say their school/college has not shown concern for their worries or wellbeing – a number that rises to 64% for those with a disability. Hamilton said: "I remember the challenges I faced at school. I didn't feel like my voice was heard, or that anyone wanted to look into the reasons why I was struggling so much. If they had, then perhaps my experience at school would have been very different. Instead, I was made to feel like I didn't belong and that I didn't matter. Today young people across the country, especially the most vulnerable students, are saying they feel the same way, and they need something to change. We need to listen and do all we can to ensure their experiences lead to the feeling of inclusion."

Other data shows that 34% of parents believe their child's learning needs or preferences are not being met, while three in four young people want a greater say in shaping what and how they learn. In addition, 43% of students say they have skipped school due to stress, anxiety or tiredness. Mission 44 CEO Jason Arthur added: "Rising rates of absence, misbehavior, suspensions, and exclusions are symptoms of a deeper lack of inclusion, many of which disproportionately impact our most vulnerable students. Our new research now shows it's the same students who are least likely to feel they belong or be listened to in the system. That makes this not just an education issue, but a matter of social justice. Through our Nothing Happens In Isolation campaign, we're calling for urgent, joined-up action to address the real drivers of these issues: unmet needs, mental health challenges, discrimination, and poverty. Unfortunately, there is no one silver bullet for this, but it must include listening to student voices and equipping schools with the tools they need to create inclusive environments for all. Our campaign is not about blaming teachers. We're calling for systemic change so that every child can thrive and achieve in the classroom. We need a framework that outlines what good school inclusion is, a mechanism to hear young people's experiences of school and what they need, a teaching workforce that reflects the communities they serve, and more personalised support for vulnerable students." Mission 44 was launched by Ferrari driver Hamilton in 2021, with the aim of building a more inclusive future for young people in motorsport and beyond.

[lapsed-bookworm]

This isn’t an exhaustive list, but I’ve run into some of these organizations as places to donate, and it's fine for my followers to share other lists that have gone around. (I'm not going to be offended.) This is version three with some organizations that include long-term goals of Israeli-Palestinian cooperation and peace in addition to the initial organizations offering emergency aid. Organizations are listed alphabetically.

Alliance for Middle East Peace

ALLMEP is a coalition of over 160 organizations—and hundreds of thousands of Palestinians and Israelis—building cooperation, justice, equality, shared society, mutual understanding, and peace among their communities. We add stability in times of crisis, foster cooperation that increases impact, and build an environment conducive to peace over the long term. (Even if you're not really keen on supporting AllMEP itself, searching Member Organizations may also be a way to find organizations based on sectors - environment, women, youth, etc. - or type - Palestinian, Cross Border, or Shared Society.)

American Friends of Magen David Adom

The most common way I’ve seen recommendations for USAmericans to donate to Magen David Adom. (Additional Friends Societies are on Magen David Adom’s site for other countries.)

As a fully-fledged member of the International Red Cross / Red Crescent, Magen David Adom serves as the Israeli Red Cross organization.

Anera

Anera, which has no political or religious affiliation, works on the ground with partners in Palestine (West Bank and Gaza), Lebanon and Jordan. We mobilize resources for immediate emergency relief and for sustainable, long-term health, education, and economic development. Our staff serve in their communities, navigating the politics that constrict progress to get help where it’s needed most.

A Land For All

A Land for All is a shared movement of Israelis and Palestinians who believe that the way towards peace, security and stability for all passes through two independent states, Israel and Palestine, within a joint framework allowing both peoples to live together and apart.

Doctors Without Border/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF)

An independent organization “focused on delivering emergency medical humanitarian aid quickly, effectively, and impartially.” This link goes to the Palestinian Territories section.

Friends of Roots

We are a network of local Palestinians and Israelis [in the West Bank] who have come to see each other as the partners we both need to make changes to end our conflict. Based on a mutual recognition of each People's connection to the Land, we are developing understanding and solidarity despite our ideological differences. Ongoing Initiatives include interreligious exchange, a women's group, partnership lectures, a children's summer camp, youth group, after school program, incident response team, and community de-escalators.

Hand in Hand

Hand in Hand is building inclusion and equality between Arab and Jewish citizens of Israel through a growing network of bilingual, integrated schools and communities. [...] The curricula in Hand in Hand’s schools are based on values that reflect both cultures and languages, oriented in multiculturalism and shared and equal citizenship. In our bilingual educational model, Hebrew and Arabic have equal status, as do both cultures and national narratives. Our thousands-strong adult community members come together year-round in celebration, solidarity, and dialogue. These community activities are geared towards parents, staff, and other active citizens who are interested in taking part in a shared community. We believe it is not apt to place the burden of creating a shared future on the shoulders of our children. We, the adults, must lead the way. These community activities are an inseparable part of our work towards building a shared society.

MAUSA - Muslim Aid USA

An international charity that provides assistance from natural disasters and conflict. They have a specific Palestine Emergency page.

Mrs Najah’s Kitchen

Emergency food relief in Gaza.

Off The Grid Missions

Off-The-Grid Missions (OTG) is a global humanitarian aid organization filling the gap in disaster-response by providing Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing people with critical life-saving resources in high-risk and disaster-stricken regions around the world.

Depending on the mission, aid can include assistance with evacuations, providing food, solar lighting and emergency electric sources, and assisting with alternatives to sound based warning systems. (Assistance with Deaf and Hard-of-hearing individuals in Palestine and Israel has been mentioned on quickly updated social media sites, like Facebook.)

Palestine Red Crescent Society

The Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) is an officially recognized independent Palestinian National Society. It is part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.

Standing Together

Standing Together is a grassroots movement mobilizing Jewish and Palestinian citizens of Israel in pursuit of peace, equality, and social and climate justice. We organize protests across the country demanding economic equality, climate justice, and an end to the occupation. We hold workshops on grassroots power, organize get-out-the-vote campaigns, and run candidates for student union elections [related to university chapters]. Our alternative media outlet, Rosa Media, produces Hebrew and Arabic podcasts highlighting underrepresented political stories and perspectives from across Israeli society. We maintain a robust presence in Israeli social media – combatting extremist voices and advancing hope.

Women Wage Peace

Women Wage Peace is a broad, politically unaffiliated movement, which is acting to prevent the next war and to promote a non-violent, respectful, and mutually accepted solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with the active participation of women through all stages of negotiations.

World Central Kitchen

World Central Kitchen is first to the frontlines, providing meals in response to humanitarian, climate, and community crises.

They have response teams and partners in Gaza, Israel, Lebanon, and Egypt.

Charity Navigator page for additional organizations for the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Posted: 5 February 2024. (Link to Version 2.)

[arquaticdreamer]

Ambiguous emotional rant:

Being nonspeaking/nonverbal, HSN and homebound anyone with high support needs and complex needs knows just how much autonomous and liberating the internet has to be for those of us who have no other safe place to be our true unapologetic, unadulterated, and authentic weird selves. I am very grateful and appreciative for the internet’s existence that it was ever even created/invented by mankind and that we have the freedom of speech to post (hopefully not all Nonspeakers, AAC users, or HSN disabled people have the freedom of speech to post what they like on the internet sadly) but for those who have good supportive caregivers, and those who have learned how to successfully, and safely access the internet World Wide Web, this is my toast to all of you who have found some semblance of human rights, freedom of speech, creative freedom and expression through your own words, I’m all so happy to be born in the right time in human history to have lived to see this day where hundreds of thousands of autistics, LSN, MSN, HSN, those verbal, semi verbal, minimally verbal, and nonverbal/nonspeaking have a place (so sorry for those who have not found it yet, or might not ever), to post what they like, to the best of their ability. I’m just so very grateful to have made a digital footprint on internet history. I pray we can make the internet a safer more inclusive and accessible accepting environment. Those of us who will most likely never be seen or known for who we truly are online than they see us in real life. Just know that you’re welcome here with me.

Julian & Damian

[stellarwhisper]

Examining the Depths of Love

The nourishing energy that Cancer personal planets convey encourages solace and emotional ties. They are excellent at designing cozy, welcoming environments that evoke a feeling of inclusion.

Pluto in the 12th house highlights the intense journey of self-discovery and transformation that can come from grappling with inner fears and desires.

In synastry, Venus in the eleventh house produces a lovely dynamic where love and friendship converge. It places a strong emphasis on social ties and common values, encouraging a partnership based on inspiration and support.

In synastry, Venus in the 12th house forges a strong emotional and frequently spiritual connection. This arrangement implies an intuitive comprehension that goes beyond language, enabling two people to jointly explore their innermost secrets.

In romantic relationships, Venus in Cancer represents a protecting and nurturing force. People with this placement value safety and stability in relationships and look for strong emotional bonds. They value home, family, and shared memories and are frequently intuitive, sensitive, and loving lovers. A great desire to provide for loved ones and create a cozy, welcoming environment may result from this placement.

Venus in Libra ethos is perfectly captured by the emphasis on elegance and beauty. Their yearning for balance can be complemented by a harmonious appearance created with delicate pastel colors and graceful forms. That elegant look is further enhanced by accessories like flowing skirts and gold hoops.

Venus impact on Capricorn highlights the link between success in the workplace and attractiveness. One's reputation can undoubtedly be improved by having a refined, elegant appearance. Investing in premium goods demonstrates ambition and sophistication, while traditional beauty options like red lipstick and bold eyeliner convey confidence.

Venus aspecting Mercury improves communication and appeal. This quality frequently leads to a pleasant voice and the capacity to show affection in an elegant manner, which warms and engages talks. People with this placement are naturally able to draw others in with their charming speech patterns.

Venus in Water signs (Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces) frequently has intense emotional experiences with love. They can build strong bonds because of their devotion and empathy, but they can also become sensitive and a little needy because to their desire for emotional stability.

Aries degrees focus on strength, vigor, and sound judgment draws attention to their innate leadership abilities. These degrees imply a tendency to take advantage of chances and flourish via self-reliance, which results in noteworthy accomplishments.

[coochiequeens]

The spa also offers an “Inclusive women’s night,” which welcomes all women, including transgender women. On all other days, the facility remains open to everyone, regardless of gender identity." TRAs couldn't let women whose cultural or religious practices require a biologically female-only space to have ONE night.

Story by TOI World Desk

A group of transgender activists is pushing back against a new policy at Archimedes Banya, a Russian-style, clothing-optional spa in San Francisco.

The controversy began after the bathhouse introduced a monthly “Cultural & religious women’s night” that is open only to women assigned female at birth. According to the spa’s website, the night was created to accommodate clients whose cultural or religious practices require a biologically female-only space.

The spa also offers an “Inclusive women’s night,” which welcomes all women, including transgender women. On all other days, the facility remains open to everyone, regardless of gender identity.

In a statement, the spa defended its decision, saying it aims to balance inclusivity with respect for religious and cultural traditions.

“At Archimedes Banya, we are deeply committed to fostering a welcoming, respectful, and inclusive space for all members of our community. We celebrate the diversity of the Bay Area and strive to create an environment where everyone can relax, restore, and feel supported,” it said.

“To honour both our commitment to inclusivity and the needs of religious and cultural communities who require gender-segregated spaces, we are introducing two distinct women’s nights,” the statement read.

Despite the spa’s explanation, some activists see the policy as exclusionary.

“Offer them (inclusive nights) to us every day. We’re not any different individual,” activist Dakota Rose Austin told CBS News.

Another activist, identified as Jordan, compared the policy to racial discrimination, saying, “If you had a night where you excluded, say, a certain race, that would not fly. Trans-exclusive nights won’t fly either.”

Some activists have vowed to attend the biologically female-only night in protest, while others are planning demonstrations outside the spa until the policy is changed.