In today’s edition of Squirrel News, we’re talking about a potential malaria vaccine proving to be 77% effective in early trials, Chloé Zhao becoming the first woman of colour to win an Oscar for Best Director, and a growing campaign in California tackling discrimination against natural Black hair in the workplace.
Chloé Zhao becomes first woman of colour to win the Oscar for Best Director
The win marks a substantial shift in the role of women of colour in the film industry, with Zhao also standing as the first woman ever to receive four nominations in a single year.
California is leading the way in ending workplace discrimination of Black hair
A group of activists and lawyers are pushing for the country’s first CROWN act – a bill that would ban discrimination against those with natural Black hairstyles such as locs, braids or twists.
Single-use plastics to be phased out in Australia from 2025
Plans to reduce the number of disposable plastic items currently available aim to make a dent in the 130,000 tonnes of plastic waste entering the natural environment every year in the country.
Study shows that an increasing number of LGBT teenage boys are happy to come out
The research states that a majority of non-heteronormative Gen Z young men report being openly out to their parents, marking a cultural shift in the growing social acceptance of LGBTQ+ youth.
New Jersey will allow non-binary individuals to use “X” as a gender marker on ID cards
The third gender option will be featured on driving licenses and other forms of state identification, making it easier for residents to change their gender declaration.
Hydropanels bring clean drinking water to remote communities
The invention uses fans to withdraw tiny droplets of moisture from the air before storing them in a safe compartment, offering a solution to limited water access in arid climates and seasons.
Female car repair shop owner is tackling social norms in the United Arab Emirates
Huda al-Matroushi is challenging traditional perceptions of gender through her garage, breaking into an industry that has been historically dominated by men.
