The controversy surrounding Texas Representative Jasmine Crockett intensified after her appearance at the Human Rights Campaign's annual dinner in Los Angeles. During her speech, Crockett referred to Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who uses a wheelchair due to a past accident, as "Governor Hot Wheels."
The incident unfolded during a 21-minute speech where, about four and a half minutes in, Crockett addressed her home state. "We in these hot a** Texas streets, honey," she began, before adding, "Y'all know we got Governor Hot Wheels down there, c'mon now." "The only thing hot about him is that he is a hot a** mess." The crowd responded with laughter and applause, and Crockett briefly joked about deviating from her prepared remarks.
The backlash was swift and severe. Critics, including figures like Turning Point CEO Charlie Kirk, condemned her words. "Jasmine Crockett continues to embarrass herself, the state of Texas, and the U.S. Congress," Kirk stated on X, highlighting Abbott's paralysis from a 1984 accident.
In response to the mounting criticism, Crockett took to X, attempting to clarify her remarks. "I wasn't thinking about the governor's condition—I was thinking about the planes, trains, and automobiles he used to transfer migrants into communities led by Black mayors, deliberately stoking tension and fear among the most vulnerable," she explained. "Literally, the next line I said was that he was a 'Hot A** Mess,' referencing his terrible policies. At no point did I mention or allude to his condition."
Crockett further pointed out the perceived hypocrisy of her critics, noting that those who support figures known for mocking disabilities were now expressing outrage. She drew a direct parallel to past actions, "So, I'm even more appalled that the very people who unequivocally support Trump—a man known for racially insensitive nicknames and mocking those with disabilities—are now outraged.”
The National Republican Congressional Committee also weighed in, with press secretary Mike Marinella stating, "Jasmine Crockett is the perfect spokesperson for today's Democrats: out of touch and completely unhinged." "When you've got no message and no agenda, all that's left is hate."
Source:
NewsWeek & Texastribune
World Consumer Rights Day, observed annually on March 15th, serves as a global platform to raise awareness about consumer rights and needs. Inspired by President John F. Kennedy's landmark speech to the US Congress in 1962, where he outlined the fundamental consumer rights, this day has become a crucial catalyst for promoting fair, safe, and transparent marketplaces worldwide. This article delves into the background, importance, and legal framework of consumer rights, with a specific focus on Pakistan, including the challenges faced by consumers with disabilities. President Kennedy's address articulated four basic consumer rights: the right to safety, the right to be informed, the right to choose, and the right to be heard. These principles laid the foundation for the global consumer movement. In 1983, Consumers International, a global federation of consumer organizations, established World Consumer Rights Day to mobilize action and advocate for consumer protection.
Consumers Rights Protection Day educates consumers about their rights and responsibilities, empowering them to make informed decisions. It provides a platform for consumer organizations to advocate for stronger consumer protection laws and policies and It encourages businesses to adopt ethical and transparent practices, fostering trust and fairness in the marketplace.
In today's complex and interconnected marketplace, consumer rights are more critical than ever. Consumers are faced with a vast array of products and services, often with intricate terms and conditions. Without adequate protection, they are vulnerable to exploitation, fraud, and unsafe products. Strong legislation prevents anti-competitive practices, such as monopolies and price fixing, which harm consumers. Such laws establish safety standards and mechanisms for recalling defective products and require businesses to provide clear and accurate information about their products and services.
Pakistan has made significant strides in strengthening its consumer protection framework. The primary legislation governing consumer rights is the Consumer Protection Act (CPA), enacted by various provinces:
The Consumer Protection Acts (CPA) in Pakistan lay out several key provisions designed to safeguard consumer interests. These include the establishment of Consumer Protection Councils and Courts, tasked with promoting awareness, investigating complaints, and adjudicating disputes; a clear definition of consumer rights, encompassing safety, information, choice, and redress; a prohibition of unfair trade practices, such as deceptive advertising and misleading labeling; the imposition of product liability on manufacturers and sellers for defective or unsafe goods; and the imposition of service liability on service providers for deficient services.
Despite the establishment of consumer protection laws in Pakistan, their effective implementation faces significant hurdles, including widespread lack of awareness among consumers about their rights and redress mechanisms, weak enforcement due to limited resources and capacity, bureaucratic obstacles hindering complaint filing and redress seeking, confusion and inconsistency arising from provincial disparities in laws, and the absence of standardized procedures across consumer courts and councils.
Consumer Protection Councils play a vital role in promoting consumer awareness and protecting consumer rights. Consumer Protection Councils in Pakistan, operating at both provincial and district levels, serve as vital hubs for safeguarding consumer interests. Their multifaceted role encompasses educating the public about their rights and responsibilities, diligently investigating consumer complaints, facilitating mediation between consumers and businesses to resolve disputes, conducting thorough research on prevailing consumer issues, and providing informed advice to the government on the formulation and implementation of effective consumer protection policies. However, these councils often face challenges such as limited funding, staffing shortages, and a lack of public awareness.
Consumers with disabilities often face unique challenges in accessing goods and services. Consumers with disabilities encounter significant obstacles in accessing goods and services, stemming from a confluence of physical, communication, and attitudinal barriers. Physical barriers, such as inaccessible buildings, websites, and products, limit their ability to physically navigate and utilize resources. Communication barriers, like the absence of sign language interpretation or braille materials, impede effective interaction with businesses. Discriminatory practices, including outright refusal of service or denial of reasonable accommodations, further marginalize these consumers. Compounding these issues is the lack of accessible information, where inaccessible websites and product details hinder informed purchasing decisions, ultimately restricting their choices and full participation in the marketplace.
To dismantle the barriers fto consumers with disabilities, a multi-pronged approach is essential. Businesses must prioritize accessibility by ensuring their premises, websites, and products are designed for inclusivity. They should provide information in diverse, accessible formats like braille, large print, and audio, catering to varying needs. Crucially, staff training is vital, equipping employees to deliver courteous and respectful service, fostering a welcoming environment. Simultaneously, governments must champion inclusive policies that guarantee equal access to goods and services for all. Furthermore, empowering consumer choice is paramount; this translates to offering diverse options, such as website accessibility features for visual impairments, easily navigable physical store layouts, and staff trained to assist individuals with physical disabilities, ensuring that consumers with disabilities have both access and agency.
To bolster consumer protection in Pakistan, a strategic and comprehensive approach is required. Firstly, extensive public awareness campaigns are crucial to educate citizens about their rights and the established redress mechanisms. Secondly, strengthening enforcement capabilities through increased resources and capacity building for consumer protection agencies is vital for effective implementation of existing laws. Thirdly, improved coordination between provincial and federal agencies will streamline operations and ensure consistency. Fourthly, promoting digital literacy is essential to safeguard consumers from the growing threat of online scams and fraud. Fifthly, tailored attention must be given to the needs of vulnerable consumer groups, including individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and other marginalized populations. Finally, standardizing provincial consumer protection laws and procedures will eliminate inconsistencies and create a uniform, effective framework across the nation. World Consumer Rights Day serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting consumer rights and promoting fair and transparent marketplaces. By strengthening our consumer protection framework, we can empower consumers and build a more equitable and prosperous society for all.
International Women's Day 2025
Every year, on March 8th, the world celebrates International Women's Day (IWD), a day dedicated to recognizing the incredible contributions of women and advocating for gender equality. The theme for International Women's Day 2025 is "Empower Her: Elevate Voices, Break Barriers," which is itself meaningful.
International Women's Day has its roots in the early 20th century, when women around the world began organizing and demanding equal rights. Since its first official celebration in 1911, IWD has grown into a global movement that continues to inspire change and progress with the slogan "We can do.".
Women have made remarkable strides across various fields. From pioneering scientists like Marie Curie to trailblazing leaders like Margaret Thatcher, women have reshaped our world. In recent years, figures such as Malala Yousafzai, Kamala Harris, and Greta Thunberg have emerged as powerful advocates for education, representation, and climate action. Their achievements highlight the strength and resilience of women everywhere. Women with disabilities also played their roles, like Hellen Keller, Dr. Fatima Shah, Judy Heumann, Rhonda Graham & Arunima Sinha, Frida Kahlo, and Jessica Cox. There is a long list of successful women with disabilities in the world.
Despite significant progress, many challenges remain. Women continue to face disparities in pay, access to education, and representation in leadership roles. Gender-based violence affects millions of women globally. Addressing these issues requires collective effort and commitment from individuals, organizations, and governments.
In countries like Pakistan, girls and women with disabilities face triple discrimination: being women, facing religious misinterpretation about women in Islam, and contending with cultural norms of South Asia. This intersectionality of gender, disability, and cultural barriers creates a particularly challenging environment for women with disabilities. They often experience exclusion from educational opportunities, limited access to healthcare, and restricted participation in economic activities.
International Women's Day is an opportunity to empower women and elevate their voices. Gender equality is not just a women's issue but a human rights issue. Promoting policies that ensure equal opportunities, creating safe and accessible spaces, and challenging societal norms that perpetuate inequality are essential steps towards a more inclusive world. As we celebrate International Women's Day, let us recognize the achievements of women with and without disabilities and reflect on the work that still needs to be done. Each of us can contribute to advancing gender equality by supporting women's initiatives, challenging stereotypes, and advocating for inclusive policies.
This year, International Women's Day serves as a powerful reminder of the progress we've made and the journey ahead, celebrating women's achievements and advocating for their rights to honor their contributions, pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable world, and remind us of our collective responsibility to create an inclusive world where every woman, including those with disabilities, can thrive by elevating their voices, breaking barriers, and empowering all women to reach their full potential.
According to the theme of this year, together, we can break barriers and build an inclusive world where every woman, regardless of age, race, nationality, or disability, can thrive and reach her full potential.
World Hearing Day 2025
World Hearing Day is observed on March 3rd every year. It's a global initiative led by the World Health Organization (WHO) to raise awareness about hearing loss and promote ear and hearing care for all. The theme for 2025 is "Changing Mindsets: Empower Yourself to Make Ear and Hearing Care a Reality for All." This year's focus is on breaking the stigma around hearing loss and encouraging proactive steps toward better hearing health.
Hearing loss is a significant public health issue affecting millions worldwide. According to WHO, over 1.5 billion people live with some degree of hearing impairment, and this number is expected to rise. The campaign emphasizes the importance of early detection, regular hearing check-ups, and the use of hearing aids and assistive devices without stigma.
Some key steps to safeguard hearing include:
Changing mindsets about hearing loss involves shifting societal attitudes and beliefs. By normalizing hearing aids and assistive devices, educating the public, and promoting advocacy, we can make people feel more comfortable seeking help. Open discussions about hearing loss within families, communities, and workplaces create supportive environments, while campaigns like World Hearing Day highlight the importance of hearing health.
Prioritizing hearing health means encouraging regular screenings, early detection, and intervention using hearing aids, cochlear implants, or other assistive devices. Inclusive communication practices and supporting research can also foster a more inclusive society where everyone can participate fully, regardless of their hearing ability. This not only improves the lives of individuals with hearing loss but also fosters a culture of empathy, understanding, and support.
HANDS Foundation is already a member of the World Hearing Day campaign. If you're interested in more details or want to participate in World Hearing Day events, you can find more information by clicking on the link to the Word Hearing Website.
Observed annually on March 1st, the United Nations' Zero Discrimination Day serves as a powerful and poignant reminder of the fundamental human right to live a life free from prejudice, stigma, and marginalization. This day underscores the urgent and ongoing need to combat all forms of discrimination, whether based on race, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, socioeconomic status, or any other status. As we approach Zero Discrimination Day 2025, the call for a more equitable and inclusive world resonates even more strongly. It's crucial to delve deeper into the multifaceted challenges faced by marginalized communities, particularly focusing on the often-overlooked experiences of South Asians with disabilities. Their experiences represent a complex intersection of discrimination, demanding focused attention and concerted action.
Disability is not a monolithic concept. It encompasses a wide spectrum of physical, sensory, intellectual, cognitive, and mental impairments, some visible and others invisible. It is an integral and natural part of the human experience, affecting individuals across all demographics and socioeconomic backgrounds because of barriers. Despite its prevalence, persons with disabilities often encounter significant, systemic barriers that impede their full participation and inclusion in society. These barriers are not simply physical; they are often deeply rooted in societal attitudes, cultural norms, and systemic inequalities. They can manifest as inaccessible infrastructure, discriminatory practices, various heartening terminologies, limited access to quality education and healthcare, and pervasive social stigma.
South Asians with disabilities often face a double, sometimes even triple, burden of discrimination. They are marginalized not only as members of the disability community but also as individuals belonging to an ethnic minority group or sexual identity. Within their own communities, they may encounter cultural stigma, misconceptions surrounding the causes of disability, and even outright rejection. Disability may be viewed through a lens of shame, superstition, or as a punishment for past transgressions, leading to isolation and a lack of support for both the individual and their family. Furthermore, they often experience discrimination in the broader society due to their ethnicity, language, religious beliefs, or cultural practices. This intersectional discrimination, where multiple forms of prejudice converge, creates a complex web of disadvantage, leading to profound social exclusion, economic hardship, limited access to essential services, and diminished opportunities for personal growth and development.
The challenges faced by South Asians with disabilities are often exacerbated by poverty, lack of access to assistive technologies, limited availability of rehabilitation services, and inadequate representation in decision-making processes. These factors contribute to a cycle of marginalization, making it difficult for individuals to overcome the barriers they face and realize their full potential. The lack of disaggregated data on disability within South Asian communities further complicates the issue, making it difficult to accurately assess the prevalence of disability and develop targeted interventions.
Disability discrimination is a complex phenomenon with roots in a variety of interconnected factors, including:
Combating disability discrimination requires a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach, involving individuals, communities, governments, and organizations working together. Key strategies include:
On Zero Discrimination Day 2025, let us not only reaffirm our commitment to building a world free from discrimination but also amplify the voices of South Asians with disabilities. Let us move beyond mere tolerance and embrace a culture of inclusion, where everyone, regardless of their abilities or background, can live a life of dignity, respect, and opportunity. By working together to dismantle barriers, challenge prejudices, and promote inclusion, we can create a more just and equitable society for all. This requires a sustained effort, a commitment to listening to and learning from the experiences of marginalized communities, and a willingness to challenge our own biases and assumptions. Only then can we truly achieve a world where zero discrimination is a reality, not just an aspiration.
Securing funding is a constant challenge for Disabled Persons' Organizations (DPOs) in Pakistan, especially given the country's complex socio-economic landscape. While government support exists, DPOs often need to explore diverse funding avenues, including local resources, INGOs, UN agencies, and international donors. This guide focuses on how grassroots DPOs can effectively approach grant acquisition and fundraising, moving beyond a simple charity-based model.
Funding Sources
Local philanthropy offers significant potential for DPOs in Pakistan. To tap into this resource, DPOs should proactively identify and cultivate relationships with local philanthropists, businesses, and community groups that share an interest in disability rights. A strategic approach involves showcasing the DPO's impact through compelling narratives and data, demonstrating how their work aligns with the philanthropic goals of potential donors.
DPOs in Pakistan can explore Zakat and Waqf as potential funding sources. Collaboration with local religious leaders and communities can be particularly helpful in understanding the distribution mechanisms and eligibility criteria for these funds. Raising awareness within the community about the DPO's work and how it benefits persons with disabilities can also increase the likelihood of receiving support from Zakat and Waqf resources. In this regard DPOs may approach HANDS Foundation for technical support.
Although navigating the bureaucratic processes can be complex, government grants represent a potential funding source for DPOs in Pakistan like Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPD) is doing in Sindh. DPOs should prioritize engaging with provincial social welfare departments and thoroughly research available programs that support disability inclusion. Cultivating relationships with key officials can be beneficial in navigating the application process.
INGOs represent a diverse range of funding opportunities for DPOs in Pakistan. Organizations like the CBM, SightSavers, and others working on disability-related issues offer various grant programs and partnerships. DPOs should conduct thorough research to identify INGOs whose funding priorities align with their specific needs and project goals.
The UNCT's growing emphasis on inclusion in Pakistan creates a favorable environment for DPOs to collaborate with UN agencies in pakistan. These agencies often have disability rights projects and may offer funding or partnership opportunities. Building relationships with UN staff and participating in UN-organized events focused on inclusion can open doors to collaboration.
International foundations and donor agencies offer valuable funding opportunities for DPOs in Pakistan, often through calls for project proposals. DPOs should proactively research organizations like the Disability Rights Fund, the Open Society Foundations, and other European and North American foundations that focus on disability rights or inclusive development. Careful review of their guidelines and targeted proposal development are crucial for success.
Connecting with the Overseas Pakistanis can be a powerful way for DPOs to access funding. Many overseas Pakistanis feel a strong connection to their homeland and may be particularly interested in supporting causes that benefit their fellow citizens, especially those with disabilities. DPOs should actively engage with diaspora organizations and individuals, highlighting the shared identity and purpose of empowering persons with disabilities in Pakistan.
Building Capacity for Grant Acquisition
DPOs should prioritize proposal writing training to enhance their fundraising efforts. Seeking out workshops offered by experienced grant writers or organizations specializing in capacity building can be particularly helpful. Focus on developing a proposal template and practicing writing different sections to build confidence and competence.
While local funding opportunities may not always require English proficiency, strong English language skills are essential for accessing international grants. Investing in English language training for key staff members involved in fundraising and proposal writing provides a significant strategic advantage in the competitive international funding landscape. Using Artificial Intelligence (AI) can help DPOs to overcome on their English language skills.
Networking is crucial for DPOs, but it's not enough to simply collect business cards. Following up after conferences, workshops, and events is essential for nurturing relationships and turning connections into potential funding opportunities. DPOs should send personalized emails, share relevant information, and schedule follow-up meetings to continue the conversation.
While internal financial management training is crucial, DPOs should also strive to have independent audits conducted regularly. This provides an additional layer of accountability and demonstrates a commitment to transparency to donors. Smaller DPOs can explore partnerships with local accounting firms to make audits more affordable.
Securing funding is only the first step; effective project management is crucial for successful grant implementation. Recognizing that many DPOs, particularly smaller organizations, may lack formal project management training, targeted support is essential. Training should focus on practical skills in project planning, monitoring, and evaluation, tailored to the specific needs and capacity of the DPO. Mentorship programs pairing DPOs with experienced project managers can be particularly valuable. HANDS could be a best platform to provide such technical support including trainings.
Moving Beyond Charity
The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and Pakistan's local legal framework provide a strong foundation for promoting a rights-based approach to disability. DPOs should frame their proposals and fundraising efforts around this framework, emphasizing the inclusion, empowerment, and dignity of persons with disabilities. Avoid portraying persons with disabilities as objects of pity or charity, instead focusing on their rights and potential.
Demonstrating impact is crucial for attracting funding, but effectively communicating this impact can be challenging for many DPOs. While data and testimonials are important, crafting compelling stories that resonate with donors can be difficult. Training and mentorship in storytelling, impact reporting, and basic photography/videography can be invaluable for DPOs.
A fundraising strategy is not a static document; it should be regularly reviewed and adapted as needed. The funding landscape is constantly changing, and DPOs must be flexible and responsive to new opportunities and challenges. Regularly evaluating the effectiveness of fundraising activities and making adjustments to the strategy is essential.
Diversifying funding sources is essential for DPO sustainability. By cultivating relationships with multiple donors, including individuals, foundations, corporations, and government agencies, DPOs can create a more stable and predictable funding stream. This diversification allows the organization to focus on its mission without being overly dependent on any single source.
Tangible Suggestions for Grassroots DPOs
Starting local is a smart strategy for DPOs. Building relationships with local philanthropists and businesses provides a solid foundation for fundraising efforts. Small grants or seed money can be invaluable in these early stages, allowing the organization to demonstrate its impact and build a credible track record.
Peer learning is ideal but challenging in Pakistan. Explore alternative learning avenues like conferences, online forums, and mentorship programs. Given the challenges of peer learning in Pakistan, focusing on mentorship and capacity building may be more effective. Connecting DPOs with experienced fundraisers, grant writers, and project managers can provide valuable guidance and support. Investing in training programs offered by established NGOs or development organizations can also build DPO capacity. Even intermediary organizations, like HANDS Foundation, Doaba Foundation or other national NGOs or INGOs like CBM, SightSavers, HI or other development support organizations, can play a key role in facilitating peer learning among DPOs. These organizations can act as conveners, bringing DPOs together for workshops, training sessions, and networking events. The networks like CBID Network Pakistan, ADDTF, NFWWDs, PILC Network can be used a support platforms for this purpose.
Mentorship is not just about short-term fixes; it's about long-term development. DPOs should seek mentors who are committed to supporting their growth over time, providing ongoing guidance and encouragement. Organizations like HANDS Foundation are facilitating these long-term mentoring relationships in Pakistan.
Online resources play a crucial role in DPO capacity building. Platforms like GrantStation and FundsforNGOs offer valuable training materials and resources on proposal writing, fundraising strategy, and financial management. DPOs should leverage these resources, along with others listed below, to strengthen their organizational capacity.
UNDB Online (United Nations Development Business)
Those DPOs are interested in training or capacity building can use
TechSoup: Offers discounted software and resources for nonprofits, including training materials.
NonprofitReady: Provides free and low-cost online courses on various nonprofit management topics.
Idealist: Offers resources for nonprofits, including job postings and training materials.
In Pakistan DPOs can explore these online resources
BrightSpyre and Rozee.pk, Indeed Pakistan, LinkedIn, Mustakbil.pk, or WorkNomad.pk
last but not least you can visit All Sanghar Handicaps' Association (ASHA) or subscribe Virtual Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities (VRCD) on web, WhatsApp and Facebook for updating you with such useful information in future.
Beyond using existing platforms, DPOs should prioritize developing their own online presence. A professional website and active social media profiles are essential for showcasing their work, communicating their impact, and attracting potential donors. The website should include information about the DPO's mission, programs, achievements, and contact details. Regularly updating the website and social media channels with news, stories, and calls to action is crucial for engaging audiences and building support.
Navigating the funding landscape in Pakistan requires persistence, strategic thinking, and capacity building. New funding opportunities are posted regularly, so it's important to check online resources frequently. By embracing a rights-based approach, demonstrating impact, and building strong relationships, grassroots DPOs can secure the resources they need to empower persons with disabilities and promote inclusion. Finding funding can take time and effort. Don't get discouraged if you don't get funded right away. Keep searching and applying for grants that are a good fit for your organization.
