Dalit Foundation
The caste system has plagued Indian society for thousands of years. Unfortunately, it is still practiced in India and has been the cause of many social conflicts in the country. The dalits occupy the lowest position in this abhorrent social system of segregation. Subjected to the practice of untouchability and social discrimination, they are not only denied access to common property (water, land) but are also denied equal opportunities in education and work. Their attempts to assert their rights are often met with strong resistance from the “upper castes”, resulting in massacres, rapes and other atrocities.
Although the constitution of India entitles human rights to all of its citizens, and especially to the dalits and other marginalized communities, in reality, many of these rights and entitlements go unclaimed or un-implemented. There is an urgent need to spread awareness among the Dalit community about their constitutional rights and entitlements.
The Dalit Foundation, established in 2003, is a non-government organization, which is the first grant-making institution in south Asia working exclusively for the empowerment of the dalit communities. It is committed to support individuals, community-based organizations, and networks that work to secure social change and protect the rights of dalits. The Dalit Foundation’s mission is to be a partner in the struggle to eliminate caste-based discrimination and ensure equality and equal rights for all.
Capacity Building of Young Professionals, a specific program of the Dalit Foundation, focuses on training for the next generation of dalit leadership. The three-year old program of workshops and mentoring has been flooded with applications from willing young people who represent the future of advancement for dalits. The workshops also help to alter the self-image of dalits and rebuild their self-confidence after centuries of caste-based discrimination.
Last updated on Thursday, November 13, 2008.
