- Manila, Phillipines
- paxromanaimcsap@gmail.com
IMCS Asia Pacific CLAP Workshop on Caste and Untouchability: Addressing Discrimination
IMCS Asia Pacific organized the Continued Learning and Action Program (CLAP) Workshop on Caste, Untouchability, and Discrimination on September 13, 14, 20, and 21, 2024. Held virtually, the workshop brought together 34 participants from diverse organizations across the Asia region. The sessions focused on educating and empowering young people to recognize the continued impact of caste-based discrimination and inspire them to advocate for marginalized communities.
Workshop Concept
The caste system, deeply rooted in historical complexities, has long been a tool of oppression against marginalized communities in South Asia. Despite modern advancements, the remnants of this system continue to affect social dynamics and perpetuate inequality. The workshop was designed to educate participants on the caste system, particularly untouchability, and the ongoing injustices faced by marginalized groups. Through this training, young leaders were inspired to take action, raise awareness, and campaign against caste-based discrimination, with the ultimate goal of contributing to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 10, which seeks to reduce inequality.
Facilitator
The workshop was facilitated by Mr. Nicholas Chinappan, a community leader from the Dalit community in Chennai, India. He shared his expertise on caste discrimination and guided participants in understanding their role in fostering a more equitable society.
Key objective
Participants were introduced to the IMCS Asia Pacific, its partners, and the overarching objectives of the workshop. The session also facilitated collective goal-setting for the group.
This session provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of the concept of caste and untouchability, tracing its origins and examining how it continues to manifest in modern society.
Participants explored the various dimensions, forms, and manifestations of caste and untouchability in contemporary society, identifying how these structures perpetuate injustice.
The session highlighted how caste-based discrimination constitutes a violation of human rights, drawing attention to the legal, social, and economic impacts on marginalized communities.
The final session encouraged youth participants to reflect on their role in fighting caste-based discrimination and promoting equality. They were inspired to engage in advocacy efforts, campaigns, and actions that support SDG 10.
Conclusion
The CLAP Workshop on Caste and Untouchability served as a critical platform for young leaders across Asia to learn about the harsh realities of caste-based discrimination and the role they can play in promoting justice and equality. Through this workshop, IMCS Asia Pacific aims to inspire continued advocacy and action to dismantle caste-based inequalities and empower marginalized communities.
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