Hy Local Guides,
Today starts the day for International Women’s Week with International Women’s Day on March 8th. Also Today (March 1st) is considered Two important days, Zero Discrimination Day and International Wheelchair Day 
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How did Women’s Day come to be?
- First came to be in New York City as part of labor movements in 1909.
- The International Socialist Women’s Conference proposed an idea for ‘Women’s Day’ in 1910.
- First International Women’s Day was marked on March 19th, 1911.
- Shift was made to March 8th as to a movement conducted by women for the “Bread and Peace” protest which happened on March 8th, 1917.
- As Events in 1917 marked the official Date as March 8th, the UN began celebrating IWD in 1975.
Moreover, I think it would be much helpful for the Connect Community to introduce New Local Guides as part of the Celebrating and Awareness Day (those who is in that respected fields).
Let’s Meet @Shamneera001
Shamneera and her Husband, @asifarian_njr at Agasthyarkoodam.
Meet Shamneera (from Trivandrum, Kerala) who is currently pursuing her PhD at the Department of Sociology, University of Kerala focusing on Gender Incongruences, Gender Transition and Socio-Cultural Exclusion of Transsexuals in Kerala. Alongside her research, she is also an Academic Counsellor, a freelance motivational trainer, and a content writer. Her work primarily explores the lived experiences of transsexual individuals, socio-cultural barriers they face, and policy-level interventions.
Let’s hear from Shamneera then!
- What do you have to say about this Zero Discrimination Day?
Answer : Zero Discrimination Day is a reminder that everyone deserves respect, dignity and equal opportunities regardless of their gender, identity or background even geography. Discrimination in any form whether based on sex, gender, sexuality, caste or disability obstructs social progress. This day is an opportunity to challenge biases and create spaces that raise inclusion particularly for marginalized communities like transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals. We all have the right to live peacefully and ensure that others have the space to live peacefully too. True inclusivity is not just about acceptance but also about actively creating an environment where everyone feels safe, valued and free from discrimination.
- As you are doing PhD in a Gender Equality topic, How do you think we can eliminate Gender discrimination in our society?
Answer : Eliminating gender discrimination requires a collective effort through policy changes, education, workplace inclusion and community engagement. Strengthening anti-discrimination laws and ensuring their proper implementation can provide legal protection for marginalized genders. Education plays a crucial role in shaping perspectives, so incorporating gender-sensitive curricula in schools and universities can help dismantle stereotypes from an early age. Workplaces should adopt inclusive hiring practices, create safe environments for LGBTQIA+ 
employees and provide equal opportunities for career growth. Also community engagement through media representation, awareness campaigns and experience sharing of those who are facing issues can foster acceptance and empathy. Most importantly, individuals must challenge their biases, support gender-inclusive initiatives and advocate for equal rights, ensuring that every person, regardless of gender, is treated with dignity and respect.
- How do you think Google Maps can be used to Promote Inclusivity and diversity?
Answer : Google Maps can play a significant role in promoting inclusivity and diversity by helping people discover and support businesses and spaces that are welcoming to all. Features like marking women-owned businesses and LGBTQIA+ friendly establishments already contribute to a more inclusive environment. Expanding these features further could include introducing verified “safe spaces” for transgender individuals, highlighting gender-neutral restrooms, and enabling user-generated reviews that focus on inclusivity and accessibility. Additionally, integrating location-based community support resources, such as LGBTQIA+ centres, shelter homes and helplines,can provide valuable assistance to those in need. By continuously evolving and incorporating more inclusive features Google Maps can help foster a world where everyone feels safe, represented, and respected in public spaces.
- What initiatives or discussions would you like to see more in the Connect Community to promote Zero Discrimination Day Values?
Answer : To promote the values of Zero Discrimination Day within the Connect Community, it is essential to encourage discussions and initiatives that highlight inclusivity and equal rights. Organizing community meetups to explore and map LGBTQIA+ friendly and gender-inclusive spaces can help create safer environments for marginalized groups. Sharing personal stories and experiences related to discrimination and inclusion can raise awareness and empathy. Also launching initiatives to identify and promote gender-neutral restrooms, safe public spaces, and businesses that actively support diversity can make a real impact. It would also be beneficial to have dedicated forums or discussions on accessibility, gender identity and discrimination-free spaces, ensuring that the Connect Community remains a platform where everyone feels seen, heard and valued. Many trans persons face harassment in public restrooms or while accessing services. If Google Maps could introduce a “Trans-Inclusive” tag or a rating system for safe spaces, it would help many in the community find secure places to live, work, and socialize.
- Have you faced any challenges or experienced it as part of Gender Discrimination and how you think Google Maps can make our community Gender Neutral?
Answer : Yes, I have seen harassment towards trans-women simply for using a public restroom. When she used the men’s restroom, she was subjected to unwanted stares, crude remarks and uncomfortable situations including being told things like, “You don’t belong here,” and “What are you doing in the men’s toilet?”. This left her feeling unsafe and vulnerable. On the other hand, when she attempted to use the women’s restroom, other women refused to allow her to enter, shouting things like, “You’re not a real woman” and “Stay out of here, this is for women!” The misunderstanding and fear in their eyes made her feel like an intruder in a space where she should have been able to feel safe and comfortable.
This experience made me realize how essential it is to have a system where people can find trans-friendly spaces without fear of discrimination. If Google Maps could introduce a feature where users can tag safe spaces for transgender individuals, it would be a game-changer. Google Maps has the power to bridge this gap by amplifying inclusive businesses, marking discrimination-free zones, and helping the LGBTQIA+ community direct the world with confidence. A simple label on a map could mean the difference between feeling safe or feeling excluded.
- What message do you want to share on this Women’s Week?
Answer : This Women’s Week and upcoming Day, let’s not just celebrate women but also work for real change. Women shouldn’t have to be strong just to survive, they should have the freedom to live, dream and succeed without any barriers. Equality is not a gift or generosity, it’s our right. Let’s create a world where every woman’s voice is heard and every choice is respected.
Thank you Shamneera for giving me such a wonderful interview and insights to gender equality on this Zero discrimination Day.
Share any such wonderful stories about inclusivity you saw in Connect Community and Also Don’t Forget to come forward & introduce New Woman Local Guides with Inspiring stories to our community in this Women’s Week.
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