Episode One - In Conversation with Phyllida Swift, CEO of Face Equality International

Susan Scott-Parker Goes Live

Here comes my first episode of "Susan Scott-Parker Goes Live.”.

I so enjoyed my thought-provoking conversation with Phyllida Swift, CEO, Face Equality International - a unique, indeed historic, global alliance: members range from international non- profits to the ever-so-grass- roots group in Nepal –all coming together to promote ‘face equality’.

I kicked off with: ‘Why did the authors of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities completely forget – never even discuss -- disfigurement? Are you – should you be? - protected under disability equality or any other equality legislation?

And why, at your launch, was that young woman so cross when I said she should be protected from disability discrimination? Remember she pushed back instantly: “I'm not disabled! ..I live with facial difference”.

Phyllida delves into her personal experience as she moved on from her accident to leading the world’s first such global campaign- fighting for a world where everyone, I repeat everyone, can say with pride: “ My face is my masterpiece!”

And where the world’s humungous social media companies no longer erase your brother’s face in that birthday party photo, because his ’non-standard’ appearance triggers the algorithm’s disapproval. And there is nothing you can do about it.

And of course we also talk about the exciting upcoming ‘International Face Equality Week’ this year from 13-19 May- and how individuals and organisations are getting involved.

This year’s theme is indeed “My Face is a Masterpiece’: it’s a brilliant campaign – do join in – have some fun! – and help us celebrate the unique artistry found in every face https://faceequalityinternational.org/about-fei/international-face-equality-week/

Find out more about Face Equality International and Disability Ethical AI? here.

If you found this episode valuable please remember to share it with your network. We need to get this conversation out to a wider audience.
If you would like to suggest a future topic or guest for an upcoming podcast please get in touch, we would love to hear from you.

If you found this episode valuable please remember to share it with your network. We need to get this conversation out to a wider audience.
If you would like to suggest a future topic or guest for an upcoming podcast please get in touch, we would love to hear from you.