Posted byRaj Bharath Patta

21-23 April 2010, United Theological College, Bangalore

Though there has been a concern by the Churches for Dalit cause, either it is not projected or not shared with the other churches. Each Church’s work has been dichotomized and sometimes there is a duplication of work on the one side and on the other there is no united common witness for the churches actions on this regard. The other major concern is that there has not been a network among churches to disseminate the issues and concerns to the local level. Most times the information on Dalit issues lie down at the desks of the church heads. Therefore a Church based ecumenical Dalit network is required so that there is information sharing, there is cross-fertilization of work among churches. This ecumenical network will strengthen ties between churches and seminaries, between churches and social movements. Therefore NCCI Commission on Dalits felt the need of bringing together the mission engagements of the Churches in the context of Dalit realities for a common sharing and mutual enrichment. It is envisaged that such a coming together shall strengthen the commitments of the Churches in accompanying the Dalit struggles towards liberation.  The aim of this is to facilitate among the Churches in India an National Ecumenical Dalit Solidarity Network.

Objectives 

• To build a network among churches for a united witness towards Dalit liberation 
• To disseminate information, share concerns and cross-fertilize the expertise among the constituents. 
• To put forward a common face for issues of national importance.
• To equip with newer tools of analysis and liberation among members of the churches. 
• To get engaged in internet activism on Dalit concerns 

MethodologyAbout 30 representatives from Churches, preferably Dalit secretaries of the churches to attend a workshop to equip them with tools of liberation shall initially form the network. This network shall continue with Internet activism on Dalit issues and concerns. In the light of this, NCCI-COD is organising a Meeting of the Dalit Coordinators of all the Churches of NCCI during April 21-23, 2010 at ERC, UTC, Bangalore.

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