New Jersey declares September 21 as Global Caste Awareness Day
In a landmark step towards fighting caste-based discrimination, New Jersey officially declared September 21 as Global Caste Awareness Day, following a resolution passed by the Jersey City Municipal Council. This significant move highlights the need to address caste-based discrimination, a pervasive issue affecting millions of people globally, particularly those in the South Asian diaspora.
The event aimed to raise awareness about the struggles faced by youth and other marginalized community members from Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (CDWD), who continued to experience discrimination, social exclusion, and untouchability due to deeply rooted caste-based biases.
By shedding light on their plight, the gathering sought to draw attention to these injustices and amplify the voices of those most affected. It also endeavored to create a platform where youth leaders and community representatives from diverse regions could openly share their experiences and challenges in confronting caste-based discrimination. The event fostered an inclusive environment where personal and communal aspirations for justice and equality were discussed, ensuring a safe space for honest and meaningful dialogue.
In addition to awareness, the event focused on advocacy, engaging local leaders, such as mayors and policymakers, in discussions on how they could support the rights of CDWD within their respective jurisdictions.
These leaders were urged to consider ways in which they could push for policy-level changes to protect the rights of marginalized communities.
Building solidarity was another central goal, as the event underscored the importance of global unity in the fight against caste-based discrimination. Youth from marginalized communities, alongside their allies, were encouraged to stand together in their collective struggle for justice, reinforcing the shared commitment to equality and human rights across borders.
The resolution emphasized that caste, as defined by the United Nations, is a rigid social hierarchy rooted in notions of purity and contamination, often resulting in extreme exclusion and socio-economic disadvantages. By adopting this resolution, Jersey City committed to fostering an inclusive environment where caste-based exclusion and dehumanization are actively challenged.
The resolution noted that caste-based discrimination affects not only South Asians but also transcends race, religion, and geography, impacting communities in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and beyond. The Council acknowledged that caste practices within workplaces, housing, healthcare, and education mirror broader systemic discrimination, including that faced by Africans, Middle Easterners, and women.
Jersey City, known for its diverse population, is committed to addressing this issue and ensuring that all residents are treated with dignity and equality. The Council's declaration is part of a growing movement in the U.S. to confront caste discrimination, particularly in diaspora communities.
The local efforts driving this resolution were supported by organizations like the Ambedkar International Mission(AIM), Association for Dalit Women's Advancement of Nepal (ADWAN), Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent and led by youth advocates, including Ishan Parmar, a high school student. The Jersey City resolution encourages residents to participate in initiatives aimed at eradicating caste and all forms of discrimination. With Global Caste Awareness Day now officially recognized, the city aims to promote justice and equality, underscoring the importance of eliminating caste-based exclusion for the well-being of its population. The Jersey City Council also acknowledged the efforts of Global Organizations working on caste and descent-based discrimination including Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent and Ambedkar International Mission.
Event Highlights
Youth-Led Panels: The event, facilitated by Ishan, featured panel discussions led by young leaders from regions such as South Asia, Africa, Latin America, and Europe. These discussions explored the unique challenges and successes of youth advocacy in combating untouchability in CDWD communities.
Interactive Sessions: Attendees engaged in interactive sessions designed to encourage open dialogue. These sessions delved into the historical and present-day realities of caste-based discrimination and explored future possibilities for empowering CDWD youth.
Networking Opportunities: Participants built connections with fellow advocates and explored potential collaborations aimed at driving change and fostering solidarity. The event served as a hub for networking, facilitating both personal and professional exchanges of ideas.
Also Read: Giving a voice to Africa's CDWD: The fight for recognition, rights and representation