The YWCA has collaborated with organizations to raise issues affecting vulnerable and excluded communities. It has also contributed to developing policies and approaches aligned with the mission and vision of the YWCA while strengthening partnerships with these communities. Through an intersectional approach to development and justice, the YWCA works to promote social equality and equal rights for women and girls, Dalits, Tribals and other Indigenous communities.
Silent Rally to Demand Equal Rights for Dalit Christians
The issue of the rights and constitutional protections available to Dalit Christians and Dalit Muslims has been the subject of public advocacy and legal proceedings in India. Article 15 of the Constitution prohibits the State from discriminating against citizens on certain grounds, including religion. The issue of Scheduled Caste status for people who have converted to Christianity or Islam is also linked to the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950.
The source account describes a silent rally organized by the CBCI, the National Council of Churches in India, the National Council of Dalit Christians, and the Federation of Catholic Associations of the Archdiocese of Delhi. The rally proceeded from Ramlila Maidan to Jantar Mantar, followed by a public meeting. The organizers called for equal rights for Dalit Christians and Dalit Muslims in relation to the protections available to Scheduled Caste communities belonging to Hindu, Sikh and Buddhist traditions.
People’s March in Defense of the Republic
Organized by Peoples March, the event brought together approximately 2,000 people from different walks of life. Participants assembled at Mandi House and marched to Jantar Mantar in protest against events that they viewed as reflecting inequality and intolerance in the country.
The Advisory Group for a Study on Support Structures for Survivors of Trafficking
The YWCA of India participated in an advisory group meeting at Women Power Connect (WPC) on 18 November 2016 concerning a research study on support structures for survivors of trafficking.
As part of the study, a resource directory was being developed with contact numbers and other information that survivors might need. The YWCA of India was invited to comment on the draft framework of the directory. It suggested adding Childline to the list of contacts and recommended conducting background research on the shelter homes whose contact details would be provided, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that survivors are directed to safe and appropriate places.
Not In My Name Protest
On 28 June 2017, citizens held silent protests in Delhi and other places against targeted mob violence and lynchings, particularly against Muslims. The protests followed the killing of 16-year-old Junaid Khan on 22 June 2017 on a train near Delhi. The “Not In My Name” campaign brought citizens together to condemn such violence and to call for an end to hatred and mob attacks.