Breaking the Silence of Slavery

Every cloud has a silver lining and every silver lining symbolizes hope

The seeds of the movement were sown in Dindigal, Tamil Nadu and today the movement has spread its solidarity across 23 states of India. As the movement completes 25 years of consistent struggle for the dignity, justice, recognition and rights of domestic workers it is important to cherish the unity and empowerment of the workers. The Silver Jubilee of the National Domestic Workers’ Movement was celebrated in Chennai, Tamil Nadu on 5th and 6th February 2010.

Over 5000 domestic workers from all the 23 states participated in the Jubilee Celebrations. They spoke 23 different languages, but they shared the same vision. The participation and involvement of the domestic workers in the movement is our greatest strength. The movement is the voice of the domestic workers and will always remain a forum that brings all of them under one umbrella.

This was the first time in the history of the movement that domestic workers from all parts of the country were gathered together. Interactions among domestic workers from different states lead to a feeling of oneness among them. Today they know that they are not alone in their struggles. Their voice, their thoughts and their demands for their rights are the same. The presence and support of eminent guests from political, governmental and non-governmental organizations was a source of encouragement for the domestic workers.

On the 4th of February 2010, the NDWM team met the media for a press conference. On 5th of February 2010, a workshop was organized for the domestic workers to build their capacity and increase their participation with knowledge about the ILO processes, rights of children, carrying out the movement approach, strategies for working with government and the need for a National Bill. 6th February 2010 was a day of celebrations; it started with a public meet and followed with a rally. A documentary film “Ray of Hope” and the movement song were also released on this day. “Ray of Hope” is a beautiful song that depicts the solidarity of the domestic workers. It symbolizes hope and the way ahead.