The Dalit Freedom Network is a human rights, non-government organization that partners with the Dalit people in India. We represent a vast network of justice-minded, modern-day abolitionists committed to freedom for India’s “untouchables.” We believe we can end Dalit injustices, such as human trafficking and child labor, and make slavery history in India. Who are the Dalits?
To mark this day, Dalit Freedom Network raises the banner for the heroic Dalit women of India-hundreds of millions of mothers, sisters, and daughters who have cried out for centuries for equal rights, equal opportunities, and progress for all. Who are these precious women? Read for yourself excerpts from their impassioned letters to Nancy Pelosi in 2007 and First Lady Michelle Obama in 2010. Read more.
DFN began in 2002 in response to the plea of Dalit leaders: "Educate our children!" Today a freedom movement is advancing all over India through Dalit Education Centers, where Dalit children learn English and are taught the values of freedom, equality and human dignity. Learn more.
In debt to landlords, moneylenders, grocers, and more, most Dalits work hand-to-mouth, ground down in horrific poverty. This economic disempowerment forces many into bonded labor and prostitution. Our Vocational Training, Self-Help Groups, and Fair-Rate Loans enable Dalit adults to learn marketable skills and support their families. Learn more.
Most Dalits cannot afford healthcare. Simple fractures go untreated and result in crippling malformations. More than 40% of India's youngest children are malnourished. Dalits also suffer from diseases unseen in developed nations, like polio and leprosy. DFN's comprehensive community-based healthcare program meets immediate needs and is paving the way for sustainability. Learn more.
DFN is the leading voice of justice for the Dalits in our nation's capital. Focusing on the big-picture of ending the trafficking of Dalits, our education campaigns, legislative work, and continuous advocacy promote justice for the Dalits. Our work with Dalit children and women in India builds hope and enpowerment. Learn more.
At last, the Dalits of Irunjchirai village in Virudhunagar district have got a salon and a washerman to serve them. The silent suffering of the Dalits due to discrimination by caste Hindus for years has come to an end after a youngster, S. Gurusamy, stood up against them and sought legal intervention in 2007 to stop the social boycott.
Discrimination against Dalits, insidious during normal course of life, becomes more pronounced in the aftermath of natural calamities. Despite forming the highest ratio in deaths and property loss, Dalits remain the last to get relief and rehabilitation.
Six decades after independence, there is a newfound zeal among intellectuals that English will not only equip SCs/STs for “new economy jobs” but also aid them in breaking free from the pernicious caste system.
Your support for a child will change their life forever.
Join Frank Borst in his quest to raise $10,000+ for The Buffalo Project. By partnering with Frank on this journey, you will help Dalit families begin their passage to economic independence
Visit International President Dr. Joseph D’souza’s International Justice Blog.
Get Dr. Joseph D’souza’s newest book. Turn inspiration into action!
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