What inspired you to take this path?
I grew up in a politically active family, so I knew all along that I wanted to be involved in social/political justice struggle. But never thought about starting an organization until I came to NYC in 2004 and saw the growing Nepali community and realized that the existing organizations were not meeting the community needs. So, four of us got together and started Adhikaar in 2005.
What challenges do you face while running Adhikaar?
For us the biggest challenge has been trying to balance direct service with community mobilization. Of course, as any start-up non-profit, funding is a constant challenge.
Do you have any words of wisdom for the Badi girls of Kotbhairab?
Believe in yourselves and don't be afraid to take risks to follow your dreams. Let me leave you with two of my favorite quotes:
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."
Margaret Mead
"No one can make you feel inferior without your consent."
Eleanor Roosevelt
Do you have any advice for Badi Ko Sathi?
Be realistic about your potential and limitations, and keep up your good work!
1. It is organization like NASO that inspires Badi Ko Sathi to continue with our efforts. What inspired you to be part of NASO?
I feel NASO Community and Badi Ko Sathi can be two sides of the same coin-working towards the upliftment of the community that has been ignored and suppressed for centuries. There are thousands of organizations that probably are working for various communities, but hardly for Badi community. People like you, getting together and working hard to collect pennies for these people, what else could be more admirable than this? I would like to congratulate you young hearts of good will one more time.
2. In your opinion what is the best approach to have Badi/Dalit people's voice heard? What are the biggest obstacles/challenges preventing this voice from being heard?
The Nepali society has been dominated for centuries by the Brahman and Chhetris. These are the ones who created this hierarchy in the society so that they can rule by dividing one by one. These people still rule Nepal and they are not going to give it away easily. Obviously, these Brahman and Chhetries will not bring up anything that will not be in their favor. These people are the government; therefore, obviously will reach out to the world with their own voice. Thus, the biggest obstacles are this class of people who will eventually prevent Badi/Dalit’s voice heard. Therefore, it will be our responsibility that we work hard to lobby this issue in the international level so that the Nepal government will eventually hear the most depressed communities’ voice from the international society.
3. Do you have any words of wisdom for the Badi girls of Kotbhairab? or any advice for Badi Ko Sathi?
Congratulations to all the girls at Kotbhairab! You have friends now who are willing to take care of you! But you need to commit in your heart that you will not follow the way that the society forced your parents to go through. You will stand up and say. “We will shine for our community and we will shine the community. We will find a way to bring our community out from this hell. The day will come.” If you have commitment, trust me, it will happen.
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