INTERNATIONAL DOMESTIC WORKERS DAY

Streevani along with like-minded organizations, celebrated International Domestic Workers’ Day, honoring domestic staff and advocating for the dignity of labor.

The day began with a press meet on June 15 in Gulbarga, followed by events across multiple locations on 16/6/2025,  including Sacred Heart  School, Talikote, Bijapur (6 staff honored, 290 children and 15 staff inspired); Don Bosco Yadgir (20 staff recognized, impacting 650 students, and 70 staff); St. Mary’s School (14 staff celebrated, creating awareness among 1,550 students and 41 staff); Bethany Convent & School (6 domestic workers honored, 620 children pledged to promote dignity of labour); Deepalaya Convent & Streevani (751 women Domestic workers celebrated, along with 14 staff); Kripalaya Bishop’s House (6 staff honored by  25 priests and sisters); St. Xavier’s Hostel (8 staff celebrated, 195 college students educated); St. Paul’s School, Ekamba (4 staff honored, 150 children inspired); St. Mary’s School, Humnabad (6 workers recognized, impacting 138 students and 6 staff); and OCD Fathers, Kadaganchi (6 staff received spectacles and honor).

The centerpiece of the celebration was a grand event on 18/06/2025 in Gulbarga and 24/06/2025 in Bidar that brought together 750 women domestic workers across Kalaburagi, Bidar, and Yadgir. Guided by an esteemed panel of resource persons, including Miss Sahithya (Assistant Commissioner), Mr.Venkatesh (Deputy Labour Commissioner, Gulbarga), Mr Mahesh Kulali (Labour Officer, Bidar), Sangeetha (Police Assistant  Sub-Inspector, Bidar), Fr. Victor SS,( Director SSDS/ORBIT) Geetha Menon,( Activist) Fr. Kuriakose SDB( Director Don Bosco), Mrs. Yashoda (President of Margadarshi Society), and Rajia (retired CWC Chairperson), the event was a powerful platform for advocacy and empowerment.

The resource persons shared insights on smart cards, government schemes, and benefits available to domestic workers, ensuring that 750 households were informed about the need to have a legal framework that ensures their rights. The event emphasized the importance of dignified living and fair treatment, resonating deeply with attendees.

A Ripple Effect of Awareness

The celebration saw a total of 4,494 individuals, honoring 66 domestic workers and inspiring 4,494 individuals, including 2,753students and 146 staff, from school children and college students to educators, clergy, and community members. Through these events, the Diocese of Gulbarga fostered a culture of respect for domestic workers, highlighting their indispensable role in households and society. Students pledged to value labor, while communities were educated about the rights and protections available to these workers.

A Commitment to Dignity

The International Domestic Workers Day celebrations in the Diocese of Gulbarga were a resounding success, shining a spotlight on the often-overlooked contributions of domestic staff. By honoring their dedication and advocating for their safety, the Diocese, alongside its partners, took a significant step toward building a more just and compassionate society.