What Happened to Claudine Gay?

Image Credit: Harvard Gazette

By Adetayo Adetokun

In academia, few stories captivate the imagination quite like that of Claudine Gay’s ascension to the presidency of Harvard University. A distinguished scholar, and a trailblazer for diversity and inclusion, her journey to the helm of one of the world’s most prestigious institutions is as remarkable as it is inspiring.

Inclusive Healthcare for Gender Non-Conforming People in Africa

Photo by Tessy Agbonome on Pexels

Written by Adetayo Adetokun

In Africa, queer and gender non-conforming individuals face significant challenges in accessing healthcare, exacerbated by legal and social discrimination. According to a 2021 report by the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Intersex Association (ILGA), 32 out of 54 African countries still criminalize same-sex relationships, with penalties ranging from fines to life imprisonment. This legal landscape is rooted in colonial-era laws and has been perpetuated by contemporary political and religious influences.

Digital Harassment: Recognizing and Addressing Cyberbullying

Photo by Julia Larson on Pexels

By Adetayo Adetokun

"You are too fat to be a fashion influencer!" – a cutting remark that echoed through Lily's mind, sending shockwaves of insecurity and doubt coursing through her veins. As a micro-influencer aspiring to break into fashion and beauty, Lily had never anticipated such hurtful criticism. Yet, there it was, staring back at her from the screen, a harsh reminder of the cruelty that lurked in the digital space.

Worsening Recession in Nigeria

Photo by Tope A. Asokere on Pexels

By Ramatu Ada Ochekliye

On September 8, 2016, I wrote about the state of the economy under the former President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari. It started with my bold statement, ‘There is a recession in Nigeria’. Today, I am writing on the same topic as we navigate the economy under our current President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Eight years after the fact, there is still a recession in Nigeria. 

PS: Most of what I said in the original letter will not change. So, let us get into it.

Red Shoe Campaign Against Gender-Based Violence

The Dorothy Njemanze Foundation and Nguvu Collective
at the Red Shoe Campaign Event

By Cynthia Umeh

On March 15, 2024, Shades of Us participated in the #RedShoeCampaign organized by Nguvu Collective and the Dorothy Njemanze Foundation (DNF). This campaign was aimed at combating Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and supporting survivors of sexual, and gender-based violence in Nigeria.

Empowering Women at the Wassa IDP Conference

Stand With A Girl (SWAG) Initiative Hosting A Conference for Women in the Wassa
Internally Displaced Persons' Camp in Abuja, Nigeria

By Cynthia Umeh

Stand With A Girl (SWAG) Initiative hosted an event at the Wassa Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Camp in Abuja, Nigeria, to commemorate the 2024 International Women's Day. The conference gave internally displaced women a forum to share their experiences, honor their strengths, and pave the road for a better future.