Hollywood sexual assault allegations, natural disasters, and a political divide like none the United States has ever seen dominated 2017. But not everything that happened in 2017 was terrible. A lot of groups that have previously been targeted gained a lot of ground. Here, I take a look at some of the happiest and most inspirational headline-makers that happened in 2017.
11November
November 2nd: Scientists discovered a new species of orangutan in Indonesia. This was the third species of orangutan to be discovered and the first great ape to be discovered for almost a century. In a time when animal species seem to be going extinct rapidly, the discovery of new species is always hopeful for the ecology of millions of animals.
November 13th: Mattel released the first Barbie doll to wear a hijab. In Barbie’s decade-long history, it may seem surprising that she has not sported a hijab until now. However, it’s always “better late than never.” Making hijabs and Muslim culture more mainstream empowers Muslims, especially Muslim women.