Impact of Dr Ambedkar’s Philosophy on International Activism of the Dalit Diaspora

Abstract

The emergence of a large and prosperous Indian diaspora across the globe obscures the fact that it is not a homogeneous and monolithic whole but is representative of the diversity of India. The Dalit diaspora emerged simultaneously but separately with a strong consciousness and commitment to ameliorate caste disabilities both at home and in the host land. One can discern a perceptible influence of Dr Ambedkar’s dictum ‘educate, organise and agitate’ on Dalits. Therefore, the educated Dalits have organised themselves through various international organisations and are agitating against caste discrimination, in the process carving out a dignified identity for themselves. This article delves into the emergence and activism of the numerous international organisations and institutions working on Dalit issues in diasporic locations. It specifically analyses the attempts to incorporate caste as descent-based discrimination within the ambit of racism at various international forums and its inclusion as protected characteristics within the Equality Act, 2010, of the UK. These efforts have been successful in challenging the caste hegemony at both local and global levels and are a step forward towards its eradication.