A RAY OF HOPE FOR THE BETTERMENT OF SOCIETY
ANNUAL REPORT 2018 1
If we don’t achieve Gender equality, we will never achieve social justice …….. 2
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Sakhi Kendra Celebrated 36th Year of its excellence and on this occasion a party was organised with much fervor and enthusiasm at Sakhi kendra's Office premises on 25th of September 2018 . This party was graced by all the members of Sakhi Kendra family.
Ms Neelam Chaturvedi addressed all the members of Sakhi Kendra with her golden words of encouragement and motivation . All the members have presented a small presentation on the glorious History of Sakhi Kendra during the party. May our organization grow by leaps and bounds!
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Sakhi
Kendra turns 36. It is a proud moment for us. A moment to cherish and
celebrate, pause and reflect, and move into the future with new learnings and a greater commitment. Our journey of the last 36 years has been that of understanding, experimentation, facing difficulties, pain, hope, perseverance, thoughtfulness, anxiety, joy and gratification. It has been about being true to our objectives and mission.
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Mission Turning women into real strength for themselves as well as for the entire society , through activism and alliance. To look upon the matter under persual of women human rights.
Objectives - To build a healthy society devoid of any discrimination against any gender, caste and religion.
- To empower women for sustainable social transformation through workshops, trainings and seminars.
- To help the suppressed women live with dignity and self respect and to give them opportunity to flourish in their full bloom.
2018 was a year of opportunities that opened new doors for us. 6
FOREW0RD……….
Hello Readers, Greetings from Sakhi Kendra team. I am very pleased to share SAKHI KENDRA’s achievements of 2018 in this Annual Report. This is the year in which we have organized many innovative, fruitful and creative programmes to fulfill the objectives of our project, to create an environment of social-gender justice and to integrate the excluded community into the mainstream society. We have eradicated the misconceptions of the people who are standing beyond social inequities, prejudices, exclusion and marginalization of people through our programmes. To enhance physical mobility of differently abled persons through cricket, integrate them into the mainstream of the society and to bring the differently abled as close to the normal people as possible, Sakhi Kendra has organised Indian Para Premier League (IPPL Cricket Tournament ) for the differently abled players both women and men, scheduled on 23rd - 24th June, 2018 at Green Park in Kanpur. We have focused to aware them of Gender equality and provide a proper platform specially to physically challenged women cricket team for their bright future. We also set an 7
example towards government that physically challenged people also have that courage and zeal to win the trophy in various International sports and can make India proud with their dedication. To sum up, IPPL inspired many people to 'DISABLE THEIR DISABILITY’.
On 31st of July 2018, we have organized India’s Historical handicrafts exhibition named as Sakhi Haat at Rave Moti Mall, Kanpur to promote the creative work of women who have faced great challenges, troubles, violence in their life and came forward with bravery and showed great courage in the face of adversity. Our main objective behind this innovative programme was to turn the Victims into Milestones. Almost 85 % victims, who are encouraged, strengthened, empowered and trained by us from long time have displayed their handcrafted products in this haat. Sakhi Kendra’s Team Members have done their level best to integrate these victims into the mainstream of the society by providing them livelihood trainings, capacity building trainings, aware them of their legal and social rights, helped them in justice process and then presented a prestigious platform to exhibit their products and make an identity of their own. A historic campaign of raksha bandhan (Raksha Bandhan–An Indian festival of tying the knot of amity, brotherhood and long life, is a symbol of seeking divine bliss) has been implemented in connection with the social welfare with police department of Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. This campaign has helped our leaders in lobbying with police administration and got acquainted with them.
With the aim of reaching a larger audience with a greater impact via digital platforms, 09-days of activism named as ‘Faces of Social Change’ for ending violence against women & Gender Discrimination by Sakhi Kendra was launched. On the holy occasion of Navratri, a signature campaign was organized from dated 1310-18 to 18-10-18 to stop violence against women and gender inequality, at the temples of Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh in which people were asked to suggest different methods to build a better environment for the society that is free from all kinds of discriminations along with the inspiring slogans with their name, signature, mobile numbers. We have organised an Awareness Program from dated 15-10-2018 to 17-10-2018 to enlighten people about issues related to social concern through a quiz competition on the holy occasion of Navratri in various colleges of Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. The main objective of this program was to spread awareness about gender equality and rights of women among the youth. This program raises awareness of gender equality 8
in students and youth. It was decided that question-answer competition will be held in the schools and colleges. Awareness of women rights and social work seemed to be highly increased in girl students.Students and teachers became aware of gender equality and they have resolved to serve their services to create a society that is free from all kinds of discrimination and inequality. Our strategy was to generate interest of school/college girls and boys in social work by encouraging them to participate in quiz competition related to social issues and present their views and opinions on various social evils. On the basis of the questions on social issues, students get to know about violence against women and they also got answers on how to get rid of these social evils. At the level of their own, they resolved to take positive steps for gender equality. We are planning to organize need based innovative programs for the welfare of excluded community and to achieve our goal of creating an environment for social and gender justice at regular intervals. We are also planning to come up with some of the International Campaigns and expand our reach globally. We are working on financial inclusion and promote participation of women in politics so as to reach sustainable development goals (SDGs) and mark a milestone in the journey to bring a positive change in society. Last but not least, I would like to express my sincere thanks to all the hard working and energetic team members of Sakhi Kendra and it’s clear that our team’s great work is paying off in tangible results. A big thanks to all those great minded people who supported us directly or indirectky in all our endeaours.
Looking forward to your support and commitment with our organization.
Warm Regards
NeelamChaturvedi General Secretary Sakhi Kendra Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh India 9
Quick Facts We are currently working in all over Kanpur and selected 46 slums in our target area.Through our individual level services we are trying to reach those women who are facing problems in their life and these services are running very well. People of other districts and nearby Kanpur also approach us through helpline numbers. Our team is always committed to help people in distress, create environment for social-gender justice and make all possible efforts to integrate the excluded community into the mainstream of the society.We have recently evaluated our journey of last 36 years and found that the people of excluded communities of society have come forward in the direction of connecting the mainstream and establishing a violence and discrimination free society by our efforts in the fields of good governance and access to justice programs. We are committed to contribute our services for the welfare of society, now want to broaden the organization's functioning so that it can eradicate gender inequality from society.We are planning to work on various issues such as development of domestic women workers, women and children welfare, strengthen physically challenged people, women and law, Women and Health, Youth Development, Access to Justice, Good Governance, Dalit Women's Empowerment, Digital Literacy, adult education, financial inclusion, participation of women in politics to name a few. We will make people aware about these issues at the district, state, national level in the coming year.Regular monitoring and update with respect to stories from the field will ensure that the commitments made under our projects are fulfilled. 10
Highlights of the Year, Outreach and Outcomes
You aren't those words. You aren't the shouts and names. You aren't the awful things spat at you like flavorless gum. You aren't the punches or the bruises they cause. You aren't the blood running from your nose. You aren't under their control. You are not theirs. Inside you is always the part of you that no one can touch. You are you. You are your own and inside you is the universe. You can be whatever you want. You can be anyone. Don't be afraid. You don't have to be afraid anymore. 11
Case Work & Counseling
In
this year, we have registered new cases related to domestic violence, husband-wife contradiction, family disputes and others. Some are solved and others are running in legal process.
Apart from the above mentioned facts, our human rights defenders and leaders from various villages and slums took all the possible steps to help women in trouble and provide them proper counseling.
People get aware of various legal aspects related to violence against women and their rights, judicial process, a brief intro to various acts of Indian Penal Code. Our counseling unit definitely influenced them to have their trust in Indian Constitution and answer their question of how to use various laws that are available for their comfort, wellbeing and justice. Through our various activities the police admimistration and other departments have been sensitized to some extent regarding women issues and process of justice.
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Advocacy Workshops with health, I.C.D.S, Media, Advocates / Police
We are working with a mission to empower and change the status of marginalised groups through the effective use of law, and an engagement in human rights advocacy, legal aid and litigation. We actively uses the law as a tool to address critical issues of women such as domestic violence, sexual harassment at the workplace, matrimonial and family related matters, crimes against women particularly sexual assault and reproductive rights. We are instrumental in the drafting of, lobbying for and enactment of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 (PWDVA), Sexual harassment at the workplace Act, CEDAW etc. Our mission is to empower women, advance gender equality and aware marginalised and excluded community in the developing world. To accomplish this, we will work with our members to conduct empirical research, build capacity and advocate for evidence-based, practical ways to improve policies and programmes. Through Media advocacy we disseminate information through the communications media where the aim is to effect action, such as a change of policy, or to alter the public’s view of an issue. We can ensure people, particularly those who are most vulnerable in society that they are able to: Have their voice heard on issues that are important to them. Defend and safeguard their rights. Have their views and wishes genuinely considered when decisions are being made about their lives.
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Emergency helpline services Our Counseling services, Emergency Helpline and legal aid services all are acquiring popularity all around (Kanpur and nearby areas). Direct and indirect association of several intellectuals, organizations, administrative & implementing authorities, Volunteers and trainees, members have been noticeable during case work and case study. In order to provide relief in complicated and serious cases, discussion, consultation and dialogues have been made with higher authorities of police and administration, doctors, psychologists, psychiatrists, advocates and media persons.
Programmes Sakhi Kendra's vision for equality, justice and non-violence has been prevailing since last 36 years with the goals to build a healthy Society free from all kinds of discriminations, violence and gender based inequality. Our aim is to eradicate the misconceptions of the people who are standing beyond social inequities, prejudices, exclusion and marginalization of people. We are doing the work of bringing awareness among people through the process of question and answer and then the questions arising out from the answers. To fulfill the goals of overthrowing gender disparity from society and create a violence free society in this year, we have organized many innovative programmes to fulfill the objectives of our project and to create an environment of social-gender justice.
Capacity building Vocational training programs on skills development are crucial now-a-days. This is one of the greatest way to earn monetary benefits and make your life better. Skill development and vocational training programs helps individuals to explore their inner ability and use that ability to lead a better life. To increase the livelihood opportunities Sakhi Kendra, has provided various vocational training programs on skill building so that women could live a better life and earn monetary benefits. Through these training programs of Capacity building, leadership skills, legal awareness, Dalit rights, domestic women workers’ rights, opportunities of livelihood etc, we have tried to integrate women and people of excluded communities into the mainstream of the society. As a result, their participation in various activities for the betterment of society increased in their areas in various forms. During the training, we have conducted sessions on other legal aspects as well. For each and every session, we invited different key person so that women get information about various laws and legal aspects that help them to get aware of the judiciary process and strengthen their trust in Indian constitution and laws .
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Vocational Training Program To upgrade the skills of slum women, we have identified the active leaders in various communities and conducted two month training programs in various areas of Kanpur. These trainings were based on professional skills and personality development that helped women to became more skillful and can explore their livelihood opportunities. In this training program we invited resource person from related fields like Beautician, Fashion designing, dress designing etc. During the training programs we also paid attention towards health and hygiene practice, women empowerment, capacity building of women and girls.
Training Programs on Legal rights We have conducted structured legal training programs on various issues related to domestic violence and sexual harassment at work place etc. We also displayed documentary films with the motive to inform women that how they access all their rights and enlighten them about various laws and judiciary process. It helps them to strengthen their trust in Indian laws and make them aware of the facilities that government has provided them for their safety and wellbeing.These training programs also encourage women to come forward with bravery to raise their voice against injustice or any crime . In this period we have conducted various training programs with community leaders with the objective to enhance their knowledge of leadership, skills development, capacity building ,women empowerment etc. 15
We take great pride to mention that our Counseling services, Emergency Helpline and legal aid services all are acquiring popularity all around (Kanpur and nearby areas). Direct and indirect association of several intellectuals, organizations, administrative & implementing authorities, Volunteers and trainees, members have been noticeable during case work and case study. In order to provide relief in complicated and serious cases, discussion consultation and dialogues have been made with higher authorities of police and administration, doctors, psychologists, psychiatrists, advocates and media persons . Through our various activities the police administration and other departments have been sensitized to some extent regarding women issues and process of justice.
We have conducted legal awareness camps and directly connected to a large number of people. Through these camps new volunteers have prepared in various areas of kanpur and they approached us directly with various cases. We have conducted several TOTs during this period with experts of respective departments with the purpose to increase the involvement of our active leaders in various departments. To accomplish this purpose, expert trainers of various departments like labor department, labor education board, Entrepreneurship development institute, legal department etc. have enlightened about various schemes beneficial for them. Through legal training, they came to know about R.T.I, domestic violence act, rights of senior citizens etc. We have also organized Half Marathon for equal and qualitative education for all at Pali khurd with the motive to create an ambience that is free from gender inequality and other unfair practices and provide opportunities for equal education. More than 1000 people have participated in this Half marathon and contributed their services with great enthusiasm to make this event a grand success. 16
We have organized Think Tank program on current burning issues in which we invite influential people to get into the crux of any incidence. To opposed the heinous incidence of Aishwarya Sharma suicide case, we have invited intellectuals of Kanpur and taken their advice regarding this burning issue. After exchanging many thoughts, views and opinions on Aishwarya Sharma suicide case, some action plans have planned to execute as soon as possible like sexual harassment committee should be formed in all educational departments, 24 hours watsapp helpline no. should be display in college campus. Strict actions should be taken immediately in case of maltreatment or any kind of unfair practices.
In this period our team went to various departments for advocacy such as 181, police counseling center, District provision officer for immediate help to oppressed women. On asking them about how they provide help and support to oppressed women, they explained about various aspects related to government schemes. We have also approached M.S.M.E for livelihood opportunities., Social welfare departments, labor education board for labor right and their schemes, Food and rationing department regarding the interruption of ration card and ration.
In this year, we have successfully organised one month campaign regarding International women’s day namely MAHABHIYAAN. We have organized complaint camps in various areas of Kanpur with the motive to minimize violence against women and spread awareness at mass level. So, during this period 257 cases have registered related to violence against women, 290 matters related to community development problems, 305 complaints have registered related to food and rashioning department,150 complaints have registered regarding various pension schemes and 150 complaints regarding labor department have registered. After that we have organized women’s court with expert legal advisors and advocates. So, proper guidance has provided in more than 70 critical cases. 17
Running For a Cause : Education Awareness Marathon by Sakhi Kendra
“Make education your dream and it will help you to fulfill your dream.” Education is the first and foremost rights of every human being. Without education, we are incomplete. Education helps us to set a goal and go ahead by working on that throughout the life. It improves our knowledge, skill, confidence level and personality. It enables us and prepares us in every aspect of life. Education is very necessary for the betterment of everyone’s life and thus we all should know the importance of education in our life. The education system is still weak in the undeveloped regions of our country as parents lack awareness about the importance of education and its consequences. 18
A Half Marathon/Awareness rally to spread awareness about education for all was organised by Sakhi Kendra and Shri Pali Dharmarth samiti in Kanpur on Sunday. Kanpur has always had a strong (and healthy!) base of volunteers who have supported activities related to social causes . The people of Kanpur came forward to participate in this Half Marathon organized by Sakhi Kendra and Shri Pali Dharmarth samiti at Pali Khurd on 21st January (2018). More than 1000 volunteers including women, men, children, Youngsters, handicapped, senior citizens participated in this half Marathon in support of Sakhi Kendra and Shri Pali Dharmarth samiti 's noble cause. In this programme, a human chain was formed and slogans were raised about the importance of education. Ms Neelam Chaturvedi, Hon. General Secretary, Sakhi Kendra took up the responsibility in explaining about the seriousness of education. Many enthusiast and energetic kids actively participated in this event.
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IPPL Cricket Tournament for the differently abled
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To enhance physical mobility of differently abled people through cricket, integrate them into the mainstream of the society and to bring the differently abled as close to the normal people as possible, Sakhi Kendra has organised Indian Para Premier League (IPPL Cricket Tournament) for the differently abled players both women and men, scheduled on 23rd - 24th June, 2018 at Green Park in Kanpur. We have focused to aware them of Gender equality and provide a proper platform specially to physically challenged women cricket team for their bright future. We also set an example towards government that physically challenged people also have that courage and zeal to win the trophy in various International sports and can make India proud with their dedication.
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IPPL Cricket Tournament was certified by Indian Cricket Federation for Disabled (ICFD). 06 teams from various states and zones had taken part in the tourney. The players having 40 percent to 90 percent physical disabilities, even amputees of upper and lower limbs had taken part in this tournament. For the first time in history of India, the differently 'abled' players both women and men from different states of India have been given opportunity to take part in this event. To sum up, IPPL inspired many people to 'DISABLE THEIR DISABILITY’.
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Sakhi Haat : Turning Victims into Milestones On 31st of July 2018, we have organized a handicrafts exhibition named as Sakhi Haat at Rave Moti Mall, Kanpur to promote the creative work of women who has faced great challenges, troubles, violence in their life and came forward with bravery and showed great courage in the face of adversity. Our main objective behind this innovative programme was to turn the Victims into Milestones. We have presented the story of those victims who set a milestone and become inspiration for others by their hard work and perseverance. Many women have put on display their products at Sakhi haat. There were 65 stalls and visitors couldn’t take their eyes off various beautiful and extremely beautiful and innovative handicrafts that includes handmade Rakhi, Idols, designer clothes, handmade Jewelry, food stalls, fashion accessories etc. We have also organized various entertainment programs and competions like best couple, best single mother, best exhibitor etc. Our district Mayor was very impressed with our work and she promised us that she will provide a lavish place for our victims in Kanpur to display and sell their crafts. 62 people got benefited directly by exhibiting their products at Sakhi Haat and 310 people got indirect benefits in terms of recognition and monetary benefits as well. More than 5000 people have visited this event . Shabeena, an acid attack victim has displayed her handcrafted bags and within a single day, around 35-36 bags got bought out. Similarly, Ms Shakeela, got appreciated for her handcrafted rugs and carpets and visitors have purchased around 32- 33 soft furnishings from her.
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Raksha Bandhan with a cause : Bridging the gap between police and the public A historic campaign of raksha bandhan (Raksha Bandhan - the Indian festival of tying the knot of amity, brotherhood and long life, is a symbol of seeking divine bliss) has been implemented in connection with the social welfare with police department of Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. Celebration of the two-day Raksha bandhan festival was initiated under the auspices of Sakhi Kendra on 24 and 25th August 2018 in Kanpur. Police procession always come and stand in front of us for the protection of women and they are the first stair of the judicial process. It would be no exaggeration to say that we can celebrate the festivals in our homes and society safely and with extreme joy only when these youths of police following their duties at the crossroads and in many departments. Therefore, on this auspicious occasion of RakshaBandhan by the sisters of Sakhi Kendra, it was decided that the police personnel were first to tie the rakhi. This campaign highlights the both good and bad sides of the police department and their procedures . Common people also got to know about their restrictions but a good relationship was formed between police department and common people during this campaign. They become friendly and come closure.They decided to celebrate this festival with new arrivals and promises in the next and coming years.
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Digital Campaigning ‘Faces of Social Change’
With the aim of reaching a larger audience with a greater impact via digital platforms, 09-days of activism for ending violence against women & Gender Discrimination by Sakhi Kendra was organized. Through this digital campaign we have presented the images and quotations of some of the nationally recognized activists, counselors, leaders and social reformers in the form of highly impactful posters named as 'SAKHI POSTERS' who contributed their services for the welfare and wellbeing of society.The cycle of violence against women at home and in public spaces will continue till the society keeps religion, politics, individuals and patriarchal norms above women's rights.The campaign is designed to widen awareness about violence against women and Gender Discrimination.
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Signature campaign for Gender Equality and Preventing Violence against Women On the holy occasion of Navratri, a signature campaign was organized from dated 13-10-18 to 18-10-18 to stop violence against women and gender inequality, at the temples of Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh in which people were asked to suggest different methods to build a better environment for the society that is free from all kinds of discriminations along with the inspiring slogans with their name, signature, mobile numbers.Through this programme, dissemination of organization’s objectives, goals and work strategies was done very well. Sakhi Kendra has come into notice of large numbers of women and adolescent girls where they can come for any kind of help. People in large quantities get in touch with Sakhi Kendra. Most of the women also come out of the house for the worship in the temple at Navaratri, who are often imprisoned in the wall of the house. Therefore, the organization decided to organize this awareness program outside the temples so that they can also know about the institution and ask for help from the organization as required.
Awareness Program on Gender Equality & Women Rights in Schools, Colleges and Institutes We have organised an Awareness Program from dated 15-10-2018 to 17-10-2018 to enlighten people about issues related to social concern through a quiz competition on the holy occasion of Navratri in various colleges of Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. The main objective of this program was to spread awareness about gender equality and rights of women among the youth. This program raises awareness of gender equality in students and youth. It was decided that question-answer competition will be held in the schools and colleges. Awareness of women rights and social work seemed to be highly increased in girl students.Students and teachers became aware of gender equality and they have resolved to serve their services to create a society that is free from all kinds of discrimination and inequality.Our strategy was to generate interest of school/college girls and boys in social work by encouraging them to participate in quiz competition related to social issues and present their views and opinions on various social evils.On the basis of the questions on social issues, students get to know about violence against women and they also got answers on how to get rid of these social evils. At the level of their own, they resolved to take positive steps for gender equality. 29
Meri Awaz Suno (Listen To My Voice) : Sakhi Domestic Workers Court
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In India, according to a survey, in 1995, the laborers were 60 percent and their number has dropped to 54 percent in the past. 95 percent of these laborers are unorganized and 80 percent are working in unsafe workplaces, where no etiquettes, rules and regulations in regard to unorganised laborers' working conditions are followed. This include construction laborers, domestic workers and bonded laborers. Most, domestic workers are women and the vast majority are from the poorer sections of society. 31
Considering the above facts in mind, we have organized a Regional Court of our domestic worker sisters named as Meri Awaz Suno (Listen To my Voice) on November 15th, 2018 under the auspices of Sakhi Gharelu Kaamgar Sangh, in which leaders from 23 districts have participated. The motive behind this court was to protect and promote rights of the domestic women workers. In this court, our domestic worker sisters talked about the rights and equality issues of domestic workers including safety, working conditions, minimum wages, fixed working hours , one day off a week, pension, insurance benefits, social protection, employer’s expectations and employeremployee relationships with a view to collectively promote decent work for domestic workers.
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'We will change the World' 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence
Sakhi Kendra & Mahila Manch, Uttar Pradesh have marked the ‘16 Days of Activism’ with a groundswell of frontline and active campaigning in an effort to raise awareness on ‘ending violence against women’. A multi-pronged campaign named as 'We will change the world' : The 16 Days of Activism' on breaking the silence on violence and raise your voice for human rights was spread over those 16 Days throughout the world through our Digital Media coverage. The campaign has started on 25th November, International Day for No Violence Against Women, and celebrated its closure on 10th December, International Human Rights Day at Gandhi Pratima, Phool Bagh, Kanpur. Sakhi Kendra recognised that violence against women has many forms, however, for ‘16 Days of Activism 2018', we have focused on ‘violence at homes’ with particular emphasis on intimate partner violence, sex selective abortion, dowry, child marriage, and trafficking, rape. We have also shared some case studies, inspiring stories and shared the views of professionals, social reformers 33
etc on various social issues like Rape culture, Educational disparity, dowry harassment, politics and women, youth and politics, Alcohol, Drugs and Youth and many more. Sakhi Kendra has created awareness and conversations on the specific forms of violence and gender discrimination for the 16 Days with several objectives ::
To encourage all Indians to help eradicate violence against women and girls.
To combine technology, social media, the arts, journalism, religion, culture, business and activism in a bid to highlight the many ways in which violence devastates women and girls.
To encourage society to acknowledge that violence against women and girls is a social, rather than governmental, problem.
To encourage collective responsibility within communities to tackle violence against women and girls.
To expand accountability beyond the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security cluster to include all government clusters and provinces.
This year the campaign popularised the 'blue colour' as a symbol of personal and organisational commitment to the eradication of violence against women and girls. The blue colour dress or ribbon symbolises the commitment of the wearer to “never commit or condone violence against the vulnerable, and to speak out about violence where they see it”.
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PRESENCE IN MEDIA
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Our Impact Stories Meet Savitri from JageshwarMandir, Jhoparpatti, a Domestic Workers Leader
Savitri is an emerging domestic worker leader. She is an ideal for other domestic workers because of her courageous and straight forward personality. In the initial stage of her journey with Sakhi Kendra, she did not have ability to keep her thoughts or opinions in front of others. But it is her dedication and spirit that inspired her to become a leader and she is now working for the development of her community. She took active part in all the programs of Sakhi Kendra. She has developed her leadership skills very well and now she is working to protect the rights of all the domestic women workers. She is aware of her rights and she talks about issues related to government schemes and social security board to women who work with her. Savitri says, "To protect the rights of domestic workers, the Domestic Workers’ Welfare and Social Security Bill has been presented, which talks of ensuring the rights of domestic workers by setting up a board at district to state and central government levels. But due to non-passage of the Bill, no directives have been issued regarding minimum wages, fixed working hours, leaves, social security, maternity leave, daycare, work environment, salary and other allowances." Savitri is extremely positive in her approach. She has good organizational and leadership skills. To explore the better options for domestic women workers,Savitri is working on grass roots level. She believes that domestic women workers are the backbone of our country . So, in society we should be seen with respect. 37
Inspiring Stories of Shabana and
Rajvanti……… Ms Shabana is a part of Sakhi Kendra since 2013 and she has established herself as an influential leader of her area in a short span. Shabana has a great flair towards the betterment of society. In her initial journey as changemaker, Shabana was not familiar with various government departments and how to deal wih the respective authority. But like they said, where there is will, there is way/ Shabana completely exemplifies this statement. She takes part in all the deputed programs like workshops, think tanks, meetings, seminars and many more to upgrade her knowledge on various social issues and new amendments. She has nearly filled the forms of 20 widows and old age pensions, solved 200 problems related to hand pump installation, 05 problems related to police. She has organised collective marriage of 10 couples. More than 15 cases referred to Sakhi Kendra. 08 children enrolled in school. She has visited Tehsil Day regularly and resolveher regional problems. About 100 problems have been solved by her from tehsil. More recently Shabana has resolved the biggest problem of sewer in her slum in October 2018 . Shabana, is a strong leader and she will defintely leave a mark and serve her services for the betterment of society.
Rajvanti, a not- so -literate woman, struggled a lot to fulfill the basic necessities of her family due to financial crises. Rajvanti was too upset to saw the degrading situation of her area. That area lacked in all the basic facilities like proper drainage system, public toilets to name a few. She decided to met the team members of Sakhi Kendra and discussed her problem with them. The team members assured her and asked her to organize a meeting in her area. Rajvanti discussed about this with her community people and organized a meeting with them. During the meeting she got aware of Sakhi Kendra’s activities and mission, vision. She decided to join Sakhi Kendra. After few days she joined our organization and started to attend meetings, trainings, workshops. She came to know about the justice process, good governance and how to coordinate with various departments. Finally she organized a meeting in her area, gathered people and raised the problem of her area.They mutually signed an application stating various issues related to their problems. Rajvanti has submitted the application to the respective department and the work related to the welfare of that area has started very soon. Rajvanti has became an active leader and people followed her to raise their voice against gender based violence and human rights violation. 38
An Open Letter from Ms Neelam Chaturvedi for the rights and wellbeing of Domestic Women Workers
Hello Folk, Before we discuss about the issues, challenges and problems of unorganised laborers in India, it is necessary to consider the fact that the population of our country has increased from one and a quarter billion to 1.38 billion. But unfortunately, the number of working women has declined continuously. Today, the number of working women in Brazil, China etc. has increased from 65 percent to 70 percent. On the contrary, in India, their number has declined continuously to 28-29 percent. I think we all are familiar with the reasons behind this. In India, according to a survey, in 1995, the laborers were 60 percent and their number has dropped to 54 percent in the past. 95 percent of these laborers are unorganized
and 80 percent are working in unsafe workplaces, where no
etiquettes, rules and regulations in regard to unorganised laborers' working conditions are followed. This include construction laborers, domestic workers and bonded laborers. Most, domestic workers are women and the vast majority are from the poorer sections of society. Considering the above facts in mind, we have recently organized a Regional Court of our domestic worker sisters named as MeriAwazSuno ( Listen To my Voice ) on November 15th, 2018 under the auspices of SakhiGhareluKaamgarSangh, in which leaders from 23 districts have participated. Unorganised Women Workers have presented various poignant stories from their real life experieces and exposed their anger in front of everyone. They said that in 39
the elections, we stand in the line for hours to cast our vote but
Government
ignores or sidelines us. We have not been considered as 'workers' yet. We are living on the margins and on the people's reverence. Most tribal girls are brought from Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and tribal states and villages of the country, who did not have their registration. Many families only make an attempt to guess that their daughter will now have grown bigger. Preparation for the upcoming election is going on very enthusiastically. The government is talking about giving Unorganised laborers and domestic workers many benefits. Political Party Congress is talking about their participation in Parliament and Assembly. In this country, where a statue costing around Rs 3000 crore is being built, the Cabinet sanctioned Rs 1000 crores for the National Social Security Board, barely for 44 crores workers. Unfortunately, social security board still has not been implemented in many states. To protect the rights of domestic workers, the Domestic Workers’ Welfare and Social Security Bill has been presented, which talks of ensuring the rights of domestic workers by setting up a board at district to state and central government levels. But due to non-passage of the Bill, no directives have been issued regarding minimum wages, fixed working hours, leaves, social security, maternity leave, daycare, work environment, salary and other allowances. So we make an appeal to Government for the formation and effective implementation of social security board and domestic workers regulations of work and social security bill 2017 as soon as possible. It is not unjust to say that unorganized workers have so much power if they live in unity. If they become organized and take a leave for just 04 days collaboratively, then they have enough power to slow down the speed of our country. They also have an important role to play in affecting the country's economy. Like the capitalists and entrepreneurs, domestic workers are also increasing the productivity of our country. Therefore, we must make fruitful efforts to
provide them justified
facilities, protected work environment and a respectful position in society.
Thanking you
Yours Truly
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Donors who contributed for Sakhi kendra
MISEREOR Creating Environment for Social and GenderJustice in 20 Slums in and around Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh
CHANGE ALLIANCE
Grass Root Social Action & Women Empowerment
PHIA FOUNDATION Literacy Program in Sarsaul Block
CSR FUNDING IN IPPL
In-Kind Mr Rajendra Awasthi Janta Vikas Sansthan
INDIVIDUAL FUNDING IN IPPL
In-Cash Mr Anoop Jain (40 K) Allen House Public School (30 K) Kashi Jewellers (15 K) Ms Kavita Tripathi (05 K)
HALF MARATHON
In-Kind ACC CEMENT
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NOVA Milk
INDIVIDUAL FUNDING IN HALF MARATHON Mr Hanuman Mishra
Interns
SaritaTripathi Arun Kumar Shivani Yadav Harshita Kapoor Priyanka Gautam Uttam Gupta Sanya Sethi Vanshikha Mahana
SPECIAL THANKS FOR HELPING US MEET OUR GOALS IN THIS YEAR
Dr Asha Tripathi Dr Saroj Rathore Dr Meera Dubey Dr Arti Lal Chandani Dr Kiran Pandey Dr G D Shukla Dr Devasya Shukla Dr Priyanka Advocate Radha Krishna Pandey, President, Bar Association Advocate Kareem Siddiqui Advocate Manisha Advocate Vishnu Shukla Advocate Ahmed Mr N P Sami, President of NCL Mr Ajay Kumar Sethi, RSO, Kanpur Mr Sanjeev Kumar Jhunjhunwala, (Rave Moti) Mr Javed Ali (Rave Moti) DM, Kanpur CMO, Kanpur Mr Mahendra Singh (Half Marathon)
We would like to convey our humble thanks to all the news papers of Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (Dainik Jagran, Hindustan, Aaj, Rashtriya Sahara, Amar Ujala, Pioneer), electronic media (JMD Channel, ABC channel, KTV) and Swapnil Saundarya ezine, India’s first hindi Lifestyle online magazine for their tremendous support in all our endeavours.
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|You can continue to help us by Talking about the issue |
• Talk to your friends and family about VAW, Gender inequality and how to integrate excluded community into the mainstream society. Learn more about VAW and Gender discrimination on www.sakhikendra.blogspot.com
• If you have experienced any kind of violence and atrocity or know of someone who has, reach out to us on +91-9336123744/ +91-9369988234
|Volunteering | • We need individuals with varied skills and resources to help our work grow. • Tell people about SAKHI KENDRA and the work we do. • Help us get access to networks like schools, clubs, residential societies, NGOs, any platform to talk about social change and create awareness. • Help us continue the good work by raising funds. * Certificate will be awarded after the completition of their internship period or volunteer support.
|Donating | • Sponsor our innovative and awareness programmes. • Help women in distress financially or bear their medical/ legal expenses. Provide resources in the livelihood trainings.
|Ways to donate| • You could send a cheque in the name of ‘SAKHI KENDRA' to our office. • For bank transfer details contact : Mr Rakesh Agrawal, Accounts Department +91- 9140380805, +91-9307375195 43
Our Key People
Dr Asha Tripathi, Dr Saroj Rathore, Neelam Chaturvedi, Prabhavati, Archana Pandey, Maya Kureel, Adv Rama Shukla, Minakshi, Archana, Nisha, Manju Pandey, Sheela Singh, Pushpa Tiwari, Maya Singh, Anupama Tiwari, Mamta Gupta, Anita, Aradhana Rawat, Prachi Tripathi, Baby Yadav, Swapnil Shukla, Rakesh Agrawal, Ashish Clancy, Shashi Awasthi, Rishabh Shukla
Our Consultant Nishanth Tripathi
Please call us in advance to arrange a mutually convenient time. 44
Sakhi kendra applauds your interest in improving the quality of our society. Now we hope you will consider joining us. Our success lies in recruiting persuasive, intelligent, and devoted citizens, like you, who are willing to devote the time and effort necessary to make a difference.
SAKHI KENDRA OFFICE | 71 HIG, KDA Colony, E Block, PAC Road Shyam Nagar, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh India, 208013.
FOR INFORMATION | Ph. +91 9336115763 | e mail :: sakhikendra61@gmail.com | www.sakhikendra.com
FOR LATEST UPDATES | www.sakhikendra.blogspot.com
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“No one who achieves success does so without acknowledging the help of others. The wise and confident acknowledge this help with gratitude.”
THANK YOU ! ENEMIES OF INNOCENCE PAINTING BY : RISHABH SHUKLA aka ‘PAINTER BABU’ COMPILED BY : RISHABH SHUKLA SWAPNIL SHUKLA
Issued by : Communication & Dissemination Department, Sakhi Kendra 46