Michael Smith’s Post

What is the role of MADOAT? MADOAT aims to give meaning to child participation, children's voices, empower them and provide children with human rights-based knowledge. Read more: https://bit.ly/3XWhDFy

My latest article on Medium: Quiet Power: Advocating for Change as an Introvert in a Frustrating World

#DYK:- Inclusive education, is having all children in one classroom. In one school irrespective of their abilities. - Peter Etabu, our Executive Director. Be a part of the change! Watch our advocacy video, "Empower Every Child," and join the call for #inclusiveeducation.

Today, we honour the survivors of residential schools, their families, and the many children who never made it home. This day reminds us of these schools's painful history and lasting impact, and the ongoing journey toward reconciliation. We are committed to learning from and supporting Indigenous communities as a business. Reconciliation is about more than reflecting on the past—it’s about building respect, understanding, and creating strong partnerships for the future. We stand with Indigenous Peoples, committed to sharing their stories and amplifying their voices. Every Child Matters. #TruthAndReconciliation #EveryChildMatters #IndigenousRights #NationalDayForTruthAndReconciliation #OrangeShirtDay #CommitToReconciliation

When we coach holistically, we #PlayTheirWay 👏 Official #UKCoachingWeek partner Play Their Way highlights how putting children's voices, rights & development first can help keep children in sport and physical activity for life. Celebrate #GreatCoaching: bit.ly/3T6FJuv

As kids, many of us were shushed when we pointed out differences like skin color, or our teachers shut down our questions about race. These moments taught us that talking about race was wrong. But avoiding these important discussions can perpetuate misunderstandings, biases, and racial injustice. Let's break the silence and address kids' questions about race with honesty and care. Check out these 10 tips from PBS on talking to kids about race. https://lnkd.in/dgYtcQcd

True masculinity is under attack in the name of equality. The disastrous effects of fatherless families are becoming commonplace. Now is the time for fathers to step up to their Godgiven role. Learn how in our recent episode of Till & Keep: https://lnkd.in/efqhWDwP

The fight against gender-based violence is not just a battle for activists but a responsibility for all, especially those of us in leadership positions. Let’s use our platforms and influence to champion the rights of all individuals to live free from fear and violence. Here’s how we can engage: Educate Ourselves and Our Teams and Networks – Organize workshops and training sessions on understanding and preventing GBV. Knowledge is power, and informed teams can make compassionate and supportive environments. Support Local and Global NGOs – Many organizations work tirelessly on these issues but need more visibility and resources. Consider partnerships or sponsorships that can help amplify their impact. Implement and Strengthen Policies – Review and strengthen policies regarding workplace safety, harassment, and support for survivors of violence. Ensuring these policies are robust and actively enforced is crucial. #UNSILENCED #EndGenderBasedViolence #HumanRights #CorporateResponsibility #LeadershipInAction

Our recent discussions in the APA Women & Planning Division book club have centered around the enlightening insights from "Invisible Women." This book dives deep into the often-overlooked realm of data biases and their profound impact on women's lives. One quote from the book that particularly resonated with me is, "There is no such thing as a woman who doesn't work; there is only a woman who isn't paid for her work." This encapsulates the myriad contributions of women that often go unrecognized and undervalued. From unpaid caregiving responsibilities to underpaid or unrecognized labor in various sectors, women's work is vast and diverse, yet frequently sidelined in discussions and data analysis. The implications of this book extend far beyond individual experiences. It speaks to systemic inequalities and biases that permeate our societies, affecting everything from economic opportunities to policy decisions. By acknowledging and valuing the full spectrum of women's work and the impact of the "male standard", we can take significant strides towards creating more equitable and inclusive environments for all. "Invisible Women" challenges us to reevaluate our perceptions and approaches to data collection, analysis, and decision-making. It prompts us to consider how data biases perpetuate gender inequalities and hinder progress towards gender equality. As planners and professionals, it is incumbent upon us to actively address these biases and advocate for change within our respective fields. #InvisibleWomen #DataBias #GenderEquality #WomenEmpowerment #BookClubDiscussions #womeninplanning #womenmatter #urbanplanning #ungenderedcities

Some great questions/insights from the book "Invisible Women" to consider for urban planners...does your jurisdiction or company collect data on travel patterns of women and men? Women tend to do "trip chaining", meaning multiple stops to and from work - to take children to daycare or school, pick up groceries...while men tend to travel to and from work, so this is how public transit routes are structured. How do girls and women perceive traveling at night where you live? Does your workplace offer safety equipment and uniforms to accommodate women's shorter heights and body sizes? Do researchers collect data on poverty rates by gender, and how women spend household funds compared to men? What are the workforce development needs of women compaired to men? After major disasters, are women included on disaster recovery committees? One example in the book described a post disaster recovery project without women - homes were built without any kitchens. What examples do you have of your own?