Arrival to DSK

Blog 2 - by Ehi March 21-22nd

We have arrived at the DSK, the Dalit Shakti Kendra--- a vocational training center for Dalit children in Gujarat. The center is Navsarjan's attempt to overcome the caste system through economic empowerment. Of all the places we have been in India, I am overcome with peace as we walk around here. Delhi's urban sprawl and underlying class tension stand in strong contrast to what we found here. Martin Macwan has built not only a physical expression of the [best tool?] but a sanctuary for Dalit. So far, few have outwardly acknowledged the tragedy and hypocrisy in the Dalit's relationship to India. Even it is, the narratives are largely academic and with the exception of a few anectdotes, we had not had a sense of what the Dalit were as a
people.

That changed when we arrived here. The limited public discourse had focused on the oppression and poverty endured by the Dalit, and while we have witnessed it here it is important to know that they are also vibrant, kind and beautiful people. Holi, the Indian festival that celebrates spring is happening now, and traditionally people paint each other's faces. It is especially striking to see young women, who face some of the worst systematic violence against women, smile and
walk with pride. One of the greatest sins committed against the Dalit population is the shame that each generation has inherited. Knowing that they are not destined to suffer but can celebrate life instead of merely bearing it. This is a crucial aspect in the articulations of affirmative action and reservation policies that is, in my opinion, not emphasized enough. Even those who subscribe to the meritocracy critique of such policies must acknowledge that Dalit are all inherently worth those opportunities to empower themselves.