By Jai Birdi

Chetna Association of Canada and other local organisations are planning to observe Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Day of Equality on April 14 at 4 pm. The event will include a garlanding ceremony and presenting flowers to the Bust of Dr. Ambedkar at the library, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby Campus.  

As the event coincides with India@75, this year’s Equality Day is dedicated to India’s 75th year of independence, Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.

In support of increasing awareness for this day, on April 4 the City of Burnaby proclaimed April 14, 2022- Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Day of Equality, a trend that it started in 2020!  Last week, the Province of British Columbia also proclaimed April 14 Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Day of Equality as well as April-Dalit History Month.  The City of Surrey is expected to make a similar proclamation, as it did in the year 2021.

Who are Dalits or patrons of Dr. Ambedkar and why is it important to discuss caste in Canada?   

The term ‘Dalit’ was used to describe downtrodden and poor;  and perhaps, also to create an environment that germinates anti-caste movement (Teltumbde). 

According to the 2016 census data, close to 2 million Canadians reported having their roots in South Asia.  

A conservative 10% of this figure would suggest there are approximately 200,000 Canadians of  Dalit ancestry.  While the majority of these would have come directly from the Indian subcontinent, many have migrated after settling in Fiji, the Caribbean, Africa, the United  Kingdom, and other countries.

The 2030 sustainable goals of United Nations inspired local activists to increase the profile of caste-based discrimination being experienced outside of the South Asian sub-contient and address all types of inequality and inequity experienced globally. 

For generations, people of the Dalit ancestry had a quest to  overcome the stigma and barriers for advancement resulting from the caste based systems, beliefs, and attitudes. First recorded anti-caste organisation established in Canada was established in 1981; it took inspiration from the teachings and philosophy of Dr. Ambedkar, champion of human rights who also chaired the constitution drafting committee for independent India. 

Although the incidence rate of caste based discrimination is relatively low in Canada, it has led to sour taste for the recipient of this discriminatory practce. Experience reported in the United States and United Kingdom suggests a higher rate of reported discrimination that resulted in the creation of anti-caste legislation in the United Kingdom.

Patrons of Dr. Ambedkar continue to have the desire to work together and proactively overcoming caste-based discrimination in Canada through education and awareness campaigns.  They also appreciate the level of support and understanding received from mainstream organisations and institutions, as well as individuals of all stripes.  

The animated film, Jai Bheem, is also expected to be released in theaters across India on April 14.  Producers of this film are also planning on screening this film outside of India, including the Vancouver area.  As information becomes available, it will be shared.

For more information on the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Day of Equality or screening of Jai Bheem filme, please send email at info@chetna.ca or jbirdi@chetna.ca.