Latest Stories from Flo
Western Australia is abandoning Aboriginal heritage protection
Western Australia has announced its intention to abolish the recently enacted Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act, a move that is poised to have profound implications for the preservation of Indigenous heritage. Modern-day Australia’s relationship with its Aboriginal history and present Aboriginal population has always been fraught. The country is infamous for denial of its own colonial history, resulting in the continued socio-political alienation of Australia’s Aboriginal people. In recent years, efforts have...
Cheaper flights trump greener railways in Europe
A new study has found that – on average – a flight is cheaper than a train journey in Europe. Here’s what that means for the climate crisis. If you live in Britain, you’re well aware of the daylight robbery that is rail travel. Travelcards aside, you’re likely to drop at least £100 for a 3 hour journey from London to Manchester. In Italy, however, a 2h, 55min journey from...
Thinness obsession is shaping women’s socio-economic mobility
Debates around the economics of weight have gone on for decades. But with a return to uber-slim beauty standards and a rise in viral weight-loss medications, the idea that being thin can make you more successful has gained new traction. The ostensible ‘ideal’ of thinness has permeated Western society for centuries. When appearances seemingly dictate opportunities, it is disheartening to witness the profound impact of beauty standards on women's socio-economic...
Opinion – Reality TV is a breeding-ground for exploitation
X Factor star Lucy Spraggan has spoken publicly about her experience on the reality show, describing it as an ‘abusive relationship.’ Reality TV has been divisive for about as long as it's been on air. Whether you love it or hate it, these shows continue to pull in ratings, luring hordes of wannabe-stars who are ill-prepared for the complexities of fame. Lucy Spraggan, a former X Factor contestant who found overnight stardom...
Why the bounce-back of tourism is bittersweet
As restrictions lift, we’re all reclaiming the joy of travel. But it’s best we approach this new chapter with caution. Tourism is one of the great joys in life. Correction, travel. Travel is one of the great joys in life. The distinction is necessary because of the baggage tourism carries, both literally and figuratively. While the tourism industry helps uplift entire communities, encouraging economic growth, cultural understanding, and a huge number...
Italy is removing LGBTQIA+ parents from birth certificates
It’s one of many crackdowns on the queer community since far-right prime minister Giorgia Meloni came to power. Italy is often seen as the land of love. Breathtaking seascapes, decadent food, and an intoxicating language have earned it this status of romantic mecca. But the country’s government seems to be hell-bent on betraying love left right and centre. That is, queer love. Italy has begun removing the names of non-biological gay mothers...
Is celebrity investment in grassroot change a good thing?
Stormzy and Beyonce are some of the latest public figures to use their wealth for social good. But are these endeavours just token gestures? In the past year, celebrities have been more open in sharing financial investments – specifically those aimed at supporting grassroots communities. Stars have been leveraging their wealth and status for the ostensible good of underprivileged people and organisations. Stormzy recently invested in his childhood football club, Croydon...
Should Apple be taking on mental health?
Apple’s latest iOS update will allow iPhones and to track our mental health. The news is raising questions about the rise (and ethics) of digital health. In an era marked by unprecedented technological advancements, our relationship with digital devices has become deeply intertwined with our daily lives. Besides dominating the tech market, Apple has made a name for itself in the health world as of late. With the launch of the Apple...
What we can learn from Yale’s Prison Education Initiative
Yale College has celebrated the graduation of several US Prison inmates who took part in the school’s new education initiative. The program's success points to a future of sufficient prison reform. Thanks to a new education initiative by Yale College and New Haven University, US inmates like Marcus Harvin are pursuing their dreams of law school. Harvin is now a fellow at Yale college. He’s also a parolee, recently released...
Opinion – Colleen Ballinger’s apology is a grim blur of comedy and consent
The former YouTube star Colleen Ballinger has faced allegations of grooming and abuse. Her bizarre response to these claims highlights the morbid meme-fication of almost everything. Colleen Ballinger isn’t a name many will recognise. Perhaps the character that made her famous, Miranda Sings, will stir memories for those in their early-to-mid-twenties. Ballinger rode the wave of huge success that YouTube made possible in the early 2010s. She was one of multiple...
