Yesterday, I went to the Mary Howard Health Center in Philadelphia. The Center, which provides health care to the city's homeless population, was announcing it is expanding its services to include vision care. Well, the first thing I thought of was Bagar and the Eye Camp and how I was so skeptical of how many people were in need of vision care - and then 1,000 people showed up. Eyes and teeth aren't the first thing one considers when it comes to health care. But imagine not being able to see. And other health issues, like hypertension and anemia can identified through an eye exam. As one doctor yesterday put it, "an eye exam can often be an entry point into the health care system."
At the Health Center, I met a woman named Constance. For years, she was homeless. Through Travelers Aid of Philadelphia, she has been in permanent housing for two years. She was a pleasure - witty, funny and so empowered! She has a few eye issues - poor sight, glaucoma, a slight cataract - so she does go for regular eye exams. But she's getting a stronger prescription for her glasses for the first time in three years. She has needed the stronger prescription for a long time, but hasn't been able to because her insurance doesn't cover the cost of new glasses.
Cosntance is on the boards of various organizations - Homes for the Homeless, the Homeless Advocacy Project, etc. Not the image I would have of a homeless person. I was interviewing her for a radio story and we got into a discussion about Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and how difficult it is to eat healthy food and how the people who decide what glasses cost or how much someone receives in food stamps never actually had to buy food or glasses on a monthly budget of $660.40.
She was so excited about the new vision care program at the Health Center because being able to see or being able to get rid of constant headaches is a big deal for people who don't have much.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Sonal's most recent statement
Statement of Sonal Shah.
I was recently maligned by a professor at a college in Connecticut who wrote an article in CounterPunch accusing me of association with Hindu extremism. Then, a few days ago, former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorum, former Republican Senator from Pennsylvania, published an editorial in the Philadelphia Inquirer, to which this site linked, that echoed the CounterPunch accusations. These attacks sadden me, but they share one other thing in common: the accusations are false.
In reaction to these attacks, my closest friends -- and many strangers -- have rallied to my side. I am touched by this outpouring of support. And as painful as this episode has been for me personally, I welcome the opportunity to discuss this issue with the seriousness that it deserves, but the conversation should proceed on the basis of verified facts and reasoned argument, not innuendo and defamation.
Indian politics and history are contested and emotive, but also unfamiliar to most Americans. I understand why so many Indians and Indian-Americans feel strongly about religious extremism in India, because I share the same concerns.
I am an American, and my political engagements have always and only been American. I served as a U.S. Treasury Department official for seven years, and now work on global development policy at Google.org. And I am honored to serve on the Presidential Transition Team of President-elect Obama while on leave from Google.org.
I emigrated from India at the age of four, and grew up in Houston. Like many Americans, I remain proud of my heritage. But my engagement with India has been exclusively cultural and humanitarian. After the devastating earthquake in Gujarat in 2001, I worked on behalf of a consortium of Indian-American organizations to raise funds for humanitarian relief. The Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America (VHP-A), an independent charity associated with the eponymous Indian political group, was among these organizations, and it was the only one to list my name on its website. I am not affiliated with any of these organizations, including the VHP-A, and have not worked with any of them since 2001.
The experience with the Gujarat earthquake did, however, teach me an important lesson. It pointed up a lack of dedicated infrastructure to help alleviate suffering in India, so together with my brother and sister, I founded Indicorps, an organization modeled on the U.S. Peace Corps that enables young Indian-Americans to spend a year in service to marginalized communities in India. The fellows come from every religious background, and have worked among every religious community in India. Indeed, some Indicorps fellows focus on inter-faith dialogue as part of their projects.
In 2002, Gujarat suffered one of the most profound tragedies in its long history, when extremist political leaders, including some associated with the VHP, incited riots that resulted in the deaths of thousands. Had I been able to foresee the role of the VHP in India in these heinous events, or anticipate that the VHP of America could possibly stand by silently in the face of its Indian counterpart's complicity in the events of Gujarat in 2002 -- thereby undermining the American group's cultural and humanitarian efforts with which I was involved -- I would not have associated with the VHP of America.
Sadly, CounterPunch and Senator Santorum have suggested that I somehow endorse that violence and the ongoing violence in Orissa. I do not - I deplore it. But more than that, I have worked against it, and will continue to do so. I have already denounced the groups at issue and am hopeful that we can begin to have an honest conversation about the ways immigrant and diaspora communities can engage constructively in social and humanitarian work abroad.
I was recently maligned by a professor at a college in Connecticut who wrote an article in CounterPunch accusing me of association with Hindu extremism. Then, a few days ago, former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorum, former Republican Senator from Pennsylvania, published an editorial in the Philadelphia Inquirer, to which this site linked, that echoed the CounterPunch accusations. These attacks sadden me, but they share one other thing in common: the accusations are false.
In reaction to these attacks, my closest friends -- and many strangers -- have rallied to my side. I am touched by this outpouring of support. And as painful as this episode has been for me personally, I welcome the opportunity to discuss this issue with the seriousness that it deserves, but the conversation should proceed on the basis of verified facts and reasoned argument, not innuendo and defamation.
Indian politics and history are contested and emotive, but also unfamiliar to most Americans. I understand why so many Indians and Indian-Americans feel strongly about religious extremism in India, because I share the same concerns.
I am an American, and my political engagements have always and only been American. I served as a U.S. Treasury Department official for seven years, and now work on global development policy at Google.org. And I am honored to serve on the Presidential Transition Team of President-elect Obama while on leave from Google.org.
I emigrated from India at the age of four, and grew up in Houston. Like many Americans, I remain proud of my heritage. But my engagement with India has been exclusively cultural and humanitarian. After the devastating earthquake in Gujarat in 2001, I worked on behalf of a consortium of Indian-American organizations to raise funds for humanitarian relief. The Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America (VHP-A), an independent charity associated with the eponymous Indian political group, was among these organizations, and it was the only one to list my name on its website. I am not affiliated with any of these organizations, including the VHP-A, and have not worked with any of them since 2001.
The experience with the Gujarat earthquake did, however, teach me an important lesson. It pointed up a lack of dedicated infrastructure to help alleviate suffering in India, so together with my brother and sister, I founded Indicorps, an organization modeled on the U.S. Peace Corps that enables young Indian-Americans to spend a year in service to marginalized communities in India. The fellows come from every religious background, and have worked among every religious community in India. Indeed, some Indicorps fellows focus on inter-faith dialogue as part of their projects.
In 2002, Gujarat suffered one of the most profound tragedies in its long history, when extremist political leaders, including some associated with the VHP, incited riots that resulted in the deaths of thousands. Had I been able to foresee the role of the VHP in India in these heinous events, or anticipate that the VHP of America could possibly stand by silently in the face of its Indian counterpart's complicity in the events of Gujarat in 2002 -- thereby undermining the American group's cultural and humanitarian efforts with which I was involved -- I would not have associated with the VHP of America.
Sadly, CounterPunch and Senator Santorum have suggested that I somehow endorse that violence and the ongoing violence in Orissa. I do not - I deplore it. But more than that, I have worked against it, and will continue to do so. I have already denounced the groups at issue and am hopeful that we can begin to have an honest conversation about the ways immigrant and diaspora communities can engage constructively in social and humanitarian work abroad.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Now What?
Update: Was money the motive for one of the attackers?
I write this knowing that some people may regard this as being too soon. The country is still mourning; the scenes of the bloodied railway station and of Sandra Samuel carrying 2 year old Moshe are still on constant replay – both on TV and in our own minds; funeral rites have not been completed. But I write this because I don’t want this to happen again.
A lot of blame has been thrown around – probably rightfully so – regarding who is to blame for the terrorist attacks in Mumbai. Yes, people messed up. And yes, it is important for us to understand what went wrong so it does not happen again. But, let’s face it, pointing fingers doesn’t accomplish much. We need to shift from being on the defense to being on the offense.
So I suggest we start by asking ourselves the age-old question: what fuels people to commit acts of terrorism? Are some cultures more prone to commit terrorism? Well, although it does not seem like it, terrorism is not characteristic to specific groups. In recent history, terrorism has been committed by Islamic groups, Tamil Tigers, separatists in Northern Ireland and in the Basque region between Spain and France.. What about economic conditions? I was surprised to find studies which have shown that people who commit suicide are actually relatively better educated and economically well-off compared to their peers. Which leads me to what I propose is the constant - a belief that an injustice has been committed.
The terrorists’ message is that they do not like the way something is and the only (read: effective) way to change the status quo is to engage in violent activities, which will scare governments into giving into terrorist demands. And this is where India – and any country fighting terrorism – can begin to take back control. Send the message loud and clear that there are other ways to be heard. Reach out to religious and education leaders, promote inter-faith or inter-community dialogue. And these interactions should not be symbolic. Follow through on proposed actions that result from these talks.
Granted, this strategy of integration is not a complete fix. It is already clear that India needs to take a good luck at how it handles security. Also, governments’ powers are limited to their area, so we are at the mercy of other countries, to a certain extent. Furthermore, as long as the Osama bin Ladens exist (and they will always exist), there will always be people who are ready to exploit people's vulnerabilities, who are going to reach out to people who are already upset and are searching for a scapegoat and channel that negative energy into terrorism and the like. We cannot put ourselves in the position where they can point to us as a scapegoat, as the enemy. And this is where dialogue and education comes in. It is ridiculous to think that all demands will be satisfied. But is it ridiculous to think that a society makes the effort to be all-inclusive? Is it ridiculous to believe that everyone should expect that they will need to make compromises and to adapt once in a while?
I am certain that there will be people who are offended by what I have written. Terrorism is wrong. It’s horrific. But how are we going to stop it if we do not take the time to understand why it is happening in the first place? If anything, we need to remember all the lives that have been lost. The innocence that has been snatched from us. India’s foundation has been shaken. It’s time to rebuild. Let’s make the foundation stronger.
I write this knowing that some people may regard this as being too soon. The country is still mourning; the scenes of the bloodied railway station and of Sandra Samuel carrying 2 year old Moshe are still on constant replay – both on TV and in our own minds; funeral rites have not been completed. But I write this because I don’t want this to happen again.
A lot of blame has been thrown around – probably rightfully so – regarding who is to blame for the terrorist attacks in Mumbai. Yes, people messed up. And yes, it is important for us to understand what went wrong so it does not happen again. But, let’s face it, pointing fingers doesn’t accomplish much. We need to shift from being on the defense to being on the offense.
So I suggest we start by asking ourselves the age-old question: what fuels people to commit acts of terrorism? Are some cultures more prone to commit terrorism? Well, although it does not seem like it, terrorism is not characteristic to specific groups. In recent history, terrorism has been committed by Islamic groups, Tamil Tigers, separatists in Northern Ireland and in the Basque region between Spain and France.. What about economic conditions? I was surprised to find studies which have shown that people who commit suicide are actually relatively better educated and economically well-off compared to their peers. Which leads me to what I propose is the constant - a belief that an injustice has been committed.
The terrorists’ message is that they do not like the way something is and the only (read: effective) way to change the status quo is to engage in violent activities, which will scare governments into giving into terrorist demands. And this is where India – and any country fighting terrorism – can begin to take back control. Send the message loud and clear that there are other ways to be heard. Reach out to religious and education leaders, promote inter-faith or inter-community dialogue. And these interactions should not be symbolic. Follow through on proposed actions that result from these talks.
Granted, this strategy of integration is not a complete fix. It is already clear that India needs to take a good luck at how it handles security. Also, governments’ powers are limited to their area, so we are at the mercy of other countries, to a certain extent. Furthermore, as long as the Osama bin Ladens exist (and they will always exist), there will always be people who are ready to exploit people's vulnerabilities, who are going to reach out to people who are already upset and are searching for a scapegoat and channel that negative energy into terrorism and the like. We cannot put ourselves in the position where they can point to us as a scapegoat, as the enemy. And this is where dialogue and education comes in. It is ridiculous to think that all demands will be satisfied. But is it ridiculous to think that a society makes the effort to be all-inclusive? Is it ridiculous to believe that everyone should expect that they will need to make compromises and to adapt once in a while?
I am certain that there will be people who are offended by what I have written. Terrorism is wrong. It’s horrific. But how are we going to stop it if we do not take the time to understand why it is happening in the first place? If anything, we need to remember all the lives that have been lost. The innocence that has been snatched from us. India’s foundation has been shaken. It’s time to rebuild. Let’s make the foundation stronger.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Mumbai Under Attack
Update: IBN is also reporting that there has been a seige at the Nariman House, where a Jewish Organization is housed.
While filing a story today at WHYY, I looked up at the TV and saw the Breaking News - "Mumbai Under Attack." Although the details are still coming in, there were machine-gun and grenade attacks at the iconic Taj Hotel, the Leopold Cafe - a popular tourist destination, the luxe Oberoi Hotel, the central Victoria Terminus station and a hospital for women & children. Death toll is said to be around 75 with the number of wounded around 240. Stories like this are devestating because of the loss of life and terrifying because of what the potential implications are.
How are Mumbaikars going to respond? Already the Shiv Sena had already been stirring things up in Mumbai and this incident will very likely get more people on their side. They'll use anything to poison people's minds. Mumbai needs to be prepared for Hindu-Muslim riots. I'm scared. Pakistani President Asif Zardari recently said that India should not feel threatened by Pakistan. What is India's relationship with Pakistan and the rest of the Muslim world going to look like after this? And you can't forget upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
The "what ifs" are always the most upsetting. What if this could have been stopped? After the 2006 bombings on the local trains in Mumbai and after the bombings in Jaipur, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Assam (the list goes on...), there should have been more security. But when I was in Mumbai, people were not required to go through security when entering train stations (and this is true in other major train stations too). When I was at the Gateway to India (right in front of the Taj Hotel, which is in flames as we speak) or staying with a friend at the Oberoi, there was no security. Same with the general Colaba area, which is teeming with people - tourists, street vendors, rich and poor.
I recently saw Slum Dog Millionaire. In that film, Mumbai was like its own character, it took a life of its own. To see what is happening there right now is indescribably painful. You hate to hear about things like this happening anywhere, but it is so different when you have a relationship with a place.
I hope that this is settled really soon and I hope there are no serious consequences.
While filing a story today at WHYY, I looked up at the TV and saw the Breaking News - "Mumbai Under Attack." Although the details are still coming in, there were machine-gun and grenade attacks at the iconic Taj Hotel, the Leopold Cafe - a popular tourist destination, the luxe Oberoi Hotel, the central Victoria Terminus station and a hospital for women & children. Death toll is said to be around 75 with the number of wounded around 240. Stories like this are devestating because of the loss of life and terrifying because of what the potential implications are.
How are Mumbaikars going to respond? Already the Shiv Sena had already been stirring things up in Mumbai and this incident will very likely get more people on their side. They'll use anything to poison people's minds. Mumbai needs to be prepared for Hindu-Muslim riots. I'm scared. Pakistani President Asif Zardari recently said that India should not feel threatened by Pakistan. What is India's relationship with Pakistan and the rest of the Muslim world going to look like after this? And you can't forget upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
The "what ifs" are always the most upsetting. What if this could have been stopped? After the 2006 bombings on the local trains in Mumbai and after the bombings in Jaipur, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Assam (the list goes on...), there should have been more security. But when I was in Mumbai, people were not required to go through security when entering train stations (and this is true in other major train stations too). When I was at the Gateway to India (right in front of the Taj Hotel, which is in flames as we speak) or staying with a friend at the Oberoi, there was no security. Same with the general Colaba area, which is teeming with people - tourists, street vendors, rich and poor.
I recently saw Slum Dog Millionaire. In that film, Mumbai was like its own character, it took a life of its own. To see what is happening there right now is indescribably painful. You hate to hear about things like this happening anywhere, but it is so different when you have a relationship with a place.
I hope that this is settled really soon and I hope there are no serious consequences.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Slum Dog Millionaire
Last night, I saw Danny Boyle's Slum Dog Millionaire. The movie has been getting a lot of good reviews, and I definitely understand why.
The premise is that Jamal, a boy from the slums, is one question from winning Rs. 20,000,000 (approximately $400,000 dollars in today's world of $1 is worth Rs. 50) on a "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire" type show. The film tracks events in Jamal's life that have brought him to where he is now. Jamal's difficult life is sometimes hard to digest, but his goodness gave me reason to hope. It's a great feel-good (verging on sappy) story.
The great thing about the film was how engaging it was. Right from a chase scene that occurs five minutes into the film, I was on the edge of my seat. The film was very beautifully filmed. I loved the fast-paced transitions between the past and present. As usual, Irfan Khan was good, and Dev Patel was well cast as the lead character, Jamal. But I really thought it was the kids in the movie who stole the show.
The film is not flawless. There are holes in the story line and the light feel of the film sometimes felt contrived. But the film just carries you and it is really hard to find fault with anything about it.
So yeah, go see it.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Is it just me, or is this really obvious?
Today, while going through the news in my usual compulsive manner, I came across a story about a West Virginia town that recently received a poor bill of health. The mayor's excuse: he would rather focus on the economy. Now here's something I would like to look into, a topic I would like to pursue - how does a healthy community affect its economy? Government would have to spend less on healthcare. People would have to spend less on their health, and would (ideally) have more savings. Businesses would benefit. Why aren't there more attempts to "stimulate" an economy by promoting healthy lifestyles? Obviously, I haven't invested too much time into researching this topic, but it just seems like common sense.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Race in the post-election US
On Tuesday, I attended Mentor Awareness Day - hosted by Senator Arlen Spector and Mayor Michael Nutter. There were a few hundred kids and the press conference was in a gymnasium. Background noise + a lot of echo means recording quality was not great.
Mayor Nutter is a celebrity! The kids, even after a morning of sports clinics, were more than willing to wait in a line that snaked around the gym to get Mayor Nutter to autograph their t-shirt. As Senator Spector observed, the kids were much more enthusiastic about cheering for Mayor Nutter than President-Elect Obama.
Which brings me to an uncomfortable observation. You'll understand why it's so uncomfortable in a second. The day was dedicated to encouraging Philadelphians to commit time as mentors to students. I'll search and post some hard data, but Senator Spector said that mentorship programs help keep kids off the street and more focused - obviously having a positive affect on kids' lives. Senator Spector and Mayor Nutter alluded to the President-Elect multiple times, obviously because of his race (most of the kids in the room were African American). They said now the world knows that race is no longer an issue, the election proved that anyone can become anything. They asked who in the room wanted to become President of the United States. As expected, every child raised their hand.
How did I choose to interpret what Nutter and Spector were saying? We can no longer make any excuses. Race is no longer what prevents one from being successful. But this is why I feel uneasy: People like Condoleeza Rice, Toni Morrison, Colin Powell, Michael Nutter (for consistency, I'm focusing on African Americans) have proven over and over again that one can be successful, in spite of race. Have their stories meant nothing?
I also think that people may be celebrating America's new age of race relations a little too soon - The election filled a public sector position and forced Americans as a group to make a statement about race in the US. What about the private sector?
Also, what implications will this have on Affirmative Action laws. Will people be able to play the minority card? (personally, I don't think they should - for the same reason I don't believe in India's quota system). As usual, no answers from me. But I would love to hear your thoughts.
Mayor Nutter is a celebrity! The kids, even after a morning of sports clinics, were more than willing to wait in a line that snaked around the gym to get Mayor Nutter to autograph their t-shirt. As Senator Spector observed, the kids were much more enthusiastic about cheering for Mayor Nutter than President-Elect Obama.
Which brings me to an uncomfortable observation. You'll understand why it's so uncomfortable in a second. The day was dedicated to encouraging Philadelphians to commit time as mentors to students. I'll search and post some hard data, but Senator Spector said that mentorship programs help keep kids off the street and more focused - obviously having a positive affect on kids' lives. Senator Spector and Mayor Nutter alluded to the President-Elect multiple times, obviously because of his race (most of the kids in the room were African American). They said now the world knows that race is no longer an issue, the election proved that anyone can become anything. They asked who in the room wanted to become President of the United States. As expected, every child raised their hand.
How did I choose to interpret what Nutter and Spector were saying? We can no longer make any excuses. Race is no longer what prevents one from being successful. But this is why I feel uneasy: People like Condoleeza Rice, Toni Morrison, Colin Powell, Michael Nutter (for consistency, I'm focusing on African Americans) have proven over and over again that one can be successful, in spite of race. Have their stories meant nothing?
I also think that people may be celebrating America's new age of race relations a little too soon - The election filled a public sector position and forced Americans as a group to make a statement about race in the US. What about the private sector?
Also, what implications will this have on Affirmative Action laws. Will people be able to play the minority card? (personally, I don't think they should - for the same reason I don't believe in India's quota system). As usual, no answers from me. But I would love to hear your thoughts.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Happy Veterans' Day
So today was Veteran's Day. As usual, on my drive back from Philadelphia, I saw the homeless veteran who waits at the stop sign right before the 95 South ramp. Since day one of my making the trip home from WHYY, I have noticed the luggage and bedding stored underneath 95 - that underpass is someone's home.
I remember how miserable I used to be in Bagar - night temperatures hit freezing levels and we did not have heating. But I was inside - I didn't have to deal with wind, or the constant rumble of traffic over my roof. Does anyone who lives underneath a busy highway ever get proper rest? Does the constant rumble eventually feel like a lullabye-esque whirrr?
I REALLY wanted to give the homeless veteran some money today, as it was Veterans' Day. I didn't. My rationalization was that the city doesn't want me to - the PSA on the bus shelter on Arch Street tells me so. But I felt helpless and EXTREMELY useless as I got onto that ramp.
Happy Veterans' Day
Monday, November 10, 2008
Follow up to my previous post
In response to recent criticism regarding her selection, Sonal released the following statement"
"As an Indian-American who has lived in this country since the age of four, serving on the Obama-Biden transition team is a unique privilege for me. A presidential transition is always a time of excitement and, in some cases, of rumors and unfounded gossip. I'd like to set to rest a few baseless and silly reports that have been circulating on the Internet. First, my personal politics have nothing in common with the views espoused by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), or any such organization. I've never been involved in Indian politics, and never intend to do so. Second, I've always condemned any politics of division, of ethnic or religious hatred, of violence and intimidation as a political tool. Some factually inaccurate internet rumors have attempted to link me to Hindu Nationalist groups through a variety of tenuous connections: Relief work I'm proud to have helped coordinate following the Gujarati earthquake of 2001, or cultural and religious affiliations of some of my family members, or apolitical humanitarian work I've been privileged to do as a founder of the NGO Indicorps and as the Director of Global Development for Google.org. Finally, I do not subscribe to the views of such Hindu nationalist groups, and never have. Ridiculous tactics of guilt by association have been decisively repudiated by the American people. I am delighted with what the victory on November 4 says about my country, and about our place in the world. I look forward to serving our President-elect in this time of transition."
"As an Indian-American who has lived in this country since the age of four, serving on the Obama-Biden transition team is a unique privilege for me. A presidential transition is always a time of excitement and, in some cases, of rumors and unfounded gossip. I'd like to set to rest a few baseless and silly reports that have been circulating on the Internet. First, my personal politics have nothing in common with the views espoused by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), or any such organization. I've never been involved in Indian politics, and never intend to do so. Second, I've always condemned any politics of division, of ethnic or religious hatred, of violence and intimidation as a political tool. Some factually inaccurate internet rumors have attempted to link me to Hindu Nationalist groups through a variety of tenuous connections: Relief work I'm proud to have helped coordinate following the Gujarati earthquake of 2001, or cultural and religious affiliations of some of my family members, or apolitical humanitarian work I've been privileged to do as a founder of the NGO Indicorps and as the Director of Global Development for Google.org. Finally, I do not subscribe to the views of such Hindu nationalist groups, and never have. Ridiculous tactics of guilt by association have been decisively repudiated by the American people. I am delighted with what the victory on November 4 says about my country, and about our place in the world. I look forward to serving our President-elect in this time of transition."
Congratulations Sonal Shah!
On Friday, I found out that one of the people I hold in highest regard - Sonal Shah - had been selected for President Elect Obama's transition team. While my personal interactions with Sonal have been limited, she co-founded Indicorps, an organization that has changed my life.
I was very saddened to discover that attempts continue to de-value Sonal's commitment to community. Going through the blogs, I saw claims of Sonal's links to right-wing organizations like RSS and VHP.
I am at a loss of explanation; I do not understand the motivation. All I do know is that Indicorps is case and point of what Sonal stands for. As an Indicorps fellow, I saw firsthand an organization committed to encouraging dialogue; to investing in young people who want to be changemakers; to having a postive impact on any community with which we interacted; to promoting the message of our common humanity - not to promoting any message of hate or division.
One reason I was so confident about President Elect Obama - I knew he would surround himself with good people. So please, join me as I congratulate Sonal for this amazing opportunity and let her know that she has our support!
Please visit former Indicorps Fellow Rish Sanghvi's blog for more details of accusations and what Rish has to say in her defense.
Friday, November 7, 2008
My love affair with the fall continues
I looked out the window today and saw a blanket of leaves at least three layers deep on the space where Dits and I used to play badminton. I decided to stop watching 3rd Rock and enjoy the weather and be productive at the same time. Twenty minutes later, the grass peeked out.
Thanksgiving is coming. I've been meaning to make gingerbread...it'll happen soon enough.
My new obsession? Textured tights - especially the heavy ones that will keep me warm aaaaalllll winter long. I no longer have to curb my love for dresses! It makes me a much happier person.
Finally - Every day, I read about people not being able to pay mortgages and the crisis that car companies and retails face. I phonebanked and canvassed for president-elect (the italics signify the giddiness and the chills I feel every time I say that) OBAMA. He, rightfully, called out to all Americans to do their part. Post-election I've found myself without that "sense of purpose" that we talked so much about. I think I am going to start volunteering at a shelter. Do what I can.
Thanksgiving is coming. I've been meaning to make gingerbread...it'll happen soon enough.
My new obsession? Textured tights - especially the heavy ones that will keep me warm aaaaalllll winter long. I no longer have to curb my love for dresses! It makes me a much happier person.
Finally - Every day, I read about people not being able to pay mortgages and the crisis that car companies and retails face. I phonebanked and canvassed for president-elect (the italics signify the giddiness and the chills I feel every time I say that) OBAMA. He, rightfully, called out to all Americans to do their part. Post-election I've found myself without that "sense of purpose" that we talked so much about. I think I am going to start volunteering at a shelter. Do what I can.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Election Reactions
So, unless you've been living under a rock, you must know that Barack Obama is the 44th president of the United States. I was at WHYY all night, so I was listening to commentary and monitoring CNN very closely. As soon as PA went blue, I was able to breathe again.
I spent some time at the local polling place and at the office of State Senate candidate, John Linder. It was so surreal to see people with walkers coming in to submit their vote and to hear about the lines that snaked around the block. There is no doubt that it is a historic day for our country, but there were also some sobering results:
In California, for example, Propisition 8 (which bans same-sex marriage), passed. Proponents of same-sex marriage will not let this issue die easily, but why did it pass? And in Florida, Amendment 1 was a measure that would repeal an old law banning Asian immigrants from owning property there. The ban cannot be applied because of federal equal protection laws, but in Florida, with 78% of precincts reporting, 52% had voted to preserve the clause! Can you imagine??
So people throughout the US are rejoicing. Obama's election symbolizes the role of race in our culture. But results from California and Florida show how far we have to go before all men are truly treated as equals.
I spent some time at the local polling place and at the office of State Senate candidate, John Linder. It was so surreal to see people with walkers coming in to submit their vote and to hear about the lines that snaked around the block. There is no doubt that it is a historic day for our country, but there were also some sobering results:
In California, for example, Propisition 8 (which bans same-sex marriage), passed. Proponents of same-sex marriage will not let this issue die easily, but why did it pass? And in Florida, Amendment 1 was a measure that would repeal an old law banning Asian immigrants from owning property there. The ban cannot be applied because of federal equal protection laws, but in Florida, with 78% of precincts reporting, 52% had voted to preserve the clause! Can you imagine??
So people throughout the US are rejoicing. Obama's election symbolizes the role of race in our culture. But results from California and Florida show how far we have to go before all men are truly treated as equals.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
White Tiger wins Man Booker Prize
Arvind Adiga is this year's Man Booker winner. I really loved White Tiger. It was an extremely observant - and cutting - piece of writing and was a story that needed to be told. I know that not everyone loved it. Many people were incensed that Salman Rushdie did not make the shortlist or that Sebastian Barry did not ultimately win. I read Rushdie's Enchantress of Florence, which was beautiful. But I feel White Tiger was just, overall, a better, fresher book. Although the class issue is one that people tend to role their eyes at, or respond to with a quick "tsk tsk," the entire story is engaging and is carried by the sharp and ironic tone! Maybe it's just because I came back from India, but Adiga's story struck me as being the most true depiction of what's going on in India. Other people may have tried, but always romanticize the situation or victimize the poor class.
I love when books like this win. Sales have already shot, which means more people will read...
My point for going on and on like this: Books like White Tiger, Upton Sinclair's The Jungle, etc. - these are the books that inspire me - they are great social commentary that make waves. They shape the readers' understanding of an issue. I want to write a book like that...
I love when books like this win. Sales have already shot, which means more people will read...
My point for going on and on like this: Books like White Tiger, Upton Sinclair's The Jungle, etc. - these are the books that inspire me - they are great social commentary that make waves. They shape the readers' understanding of an issue. I want to write a book like that...
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
What I'm looking forward to in Autumn
I love making these lists. They make me so happy:
- Macintosh apples
- Apple pie
- Apple cider
- Apple picking (noticing a trend?)
- Diwali (I love it when we light the diyas/candles and turn of the lights)
- Thanksgiving and beginning of the holiday season
- Chunky sweaters
- Hot chocolate or tea
- The weather
- The deer that sleep in the backyard (they're more visible when there are no leaves on the trees)
- Scarves
- Cinnamon
- The general need to bundle up and be cozy
Sorry, needed to get that out of my system. Wow, a lot of the things on my list are tastes & smells. I guess those are what I remember from when I was a kid. I haven't been home (or in the US, for that matter) during this time since 2004.
Also, I phone banked for Obama last night. We were looking for volunteers, so we were targeting Obama supporters. I think I'm going to start volunteering for John Linder, who is running for Pennsylvania State Senate in the 9th district.
Alright, back to writing the article I'm writing about Source for Change. It should show up in India Abroad in the next few weeks.
- Macintosh apples
- Apple pie
- Apple cider
- Apple picking (noticing a trend?)
- Diwali (I love it when we light the diyas/candles and turn of the lights)
- Thanksgiving and beginning of the holiday season
- Chunky sweaters
- Hot chocolate or tea
- The weather
- The deer that sleep in the backyard (they're more visible when there are no leaves on the trees)
- Scarves
- Cinnamon
- The general need to bundle up and be cozy
Sorry, needed to get that out of my system. Wow, a lot of the things on my list are tastes & smells. I guess those are what I remember from when I was a kid. I haven't been home (or in the US, for that matter) during this time since 2004.
Also, I phone banked for Obama last night. We were looking for volunteers, so we were targeting Obama supporters. I think I'm going to start volunteering for John Linder, who is running for Pennsylvania State Senate in the 9th district.
Alright, back to writing the article I'm writing about Source for Change. It should show up in India Abroad in the next few weeks.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Post-Retreat High
I just returned from my first Indicorps Alumni reunion. It was nice to see familiar faces and meet people that I have heard so much about! It was a great opportunity to catch up and network and I feel so re-energized coming out of it. I emailed a bunch of Philly area schools about recruiting for Indicorps, so hopefully I'll be able to set up some times to visit with students soon. Have to keep up my momentum now.
So I finally finished Rohinton Mistry's A Fine Balance, which is set during the Emergency in India. The book was really haunting and unsettling, but I really enjoyed the relationship the four main characters had with each other. I recommend it to anyone interested in Indian politics and caste system. Or to anyone who's looking for a good read. Next on my list is Arvind Adiga's White Tiger (short-listed for the Booker Prize) and Edward Luce's In Spite of the Gods.
So my first piece was published in India Abroad. I'll scan it and put it up soon. It feels good :-)
Other than that, I start phone banking for Obama tomorrow. I'm really looking forward to it - to being in the office with a bunch of people who are taking things into their own hands and to hearing from people what they're looking for in this election.
Tomorrow's the first day of autumn. I got a beret, so I'm really excited about the cool weather because I'll get to wear it! Maybe the next post should be an ode to autumn!
So I finally finished Rohinton Mistry's A Fine Balance, which is set during the Emergency in India. The book was really haunting and unsettling, but I really enjoyed the relationship the four main characters had with each other. I recommend it to anyone interested in Indian politics and caste system. Or to anyone who's looking for a good read. Next on my list is Arvind Adiga's White Tiger (short-listed for the Booker Prize) and Edward Luce's In Spite of the Gods.
So my first piece was published in India Abroad. I'll scan it and put it up soon. It feels good :-)
Other than that, I start phone banking for Obama tomorrow. I'm really looking forward to it - to being in the office with a bunch of people who are taking things into their own hands and to hearing from people what they're looking for in this election.
Tomorrow's the first day of autumn. I got a beret, so I'm really excited about the cool weather because I'll get to wear it! Maybe the next post should be an ode to autumn!
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
It's been more than a month since I last wrote. Since then, I said tata batata (for now) to Bagar, saw the Golden Temple (gorgeous!), got my ass kicked in a one-week Bharatanatyam workshop taught by the great dancer C.V. Chandrashekar, cheered on Baltimore-native Michael Phelps, fell in love with Chicago (in the summer), caught up with cousins at a family wedding and got re-energized and ready for November's elections thanks to the DNC. Currently I'm grappling with living at home and being unemployed. Not one of my best phases, but it shall pass.
Speaking of the DNC, my thoughts on what's going on in American politics: I decided a while ago that I would vote for Barack Obama anyway just because he is pro-choice. After hearing the viciousness that is Sarah Palin, I'm just more determined. And yesterday I heard that John McCain is equal or ahead of Obama in most polls?? I am just having so much trouble wrapping my head around why anyone who was pro-Hillary would vote for McCain. I mean, I understand that they hope Hillary will win in 2012 but at what expense?? Anyway, I will definitely be watching Palin's interview on ABC tomorrow & Friday. I know he'll ask her some tough questions and I'm anxious to hear what she has to say.
Now about Joe Biden. I like him a lot and I think he adds a lot to the ticket and offers a more realist balance to what I think is a lot of rhetoric for change. He has shown that he's not afraid to get his hands dirty, and I respect him immensely for that. His aggressiveness turns people off, thus the public doesn't really get to know him. I think that people will now have to pay attention.
My final thoughts: Even if a lot of empty talk and false promises are being thrown around, I think it's so inspiring and exciting how engaged people are - there are grassroots movements, people tuning in to hear speeches, a flurry of blog entries - people are paying attention and they're getting others to pay attention. The obvious test will come starting next January, when the new president delivers (or does not) and the public responds (or does not). But in the meantime, yay democracy!
Speaking of the DNC, my thoughts on what's going on in American politics: I decided a while ago that I would vote for Barack Obama anyway just because he is pro-choice. After hearing the viciousness that is Sarah Palin, I'm just more determined. And yesterday I heard that John McCain is equal or ahead of Obama in most polls?? I am just having so much trouble wrapping my head around why anyone who was pro-Hillary would vote for McCain. I mean, I understand that they hope Hillary will win in 2012 but at what expense?? Anyway, I will definitely be watching Palin's interview on ABC tomorrow & Friday. I know he'll ask her some tough questions and I'm anxious to hear what she has to say.
Now about Joe Biden. I like him a lot and I think he adds a lot to the ticket and offers a more realist balance to what I think is a lot of rhetoric for change. He has shown that he's not afraid to get his hands dirty, and I respect him immensely for that. His aggressiveness turns people off, thus the public doesn't really get to know him. I think that people will now have to pay attention.
My final thoughts: Even if a lot of empty talk and false promises are being thrown around, I think it's so inspiring and exciting how engaged people are - there are grassroots movements, people tuning in to hear speeches, a flurry of blog entries - people are paying attention and they're getting others to pay attention. The obvious test will come starting next January, when the new president delivers (or does not) and the public responds (or does not). But in the meantime, yay democracy!
Sunday, July 13, 2008
The People of Bagar
In the past two days, two friends have sent me things to help me cope with post-Bagar life. I'm so ready to leave, but I'm not. My one solace is that I will constantly be in touch with our GDL family here.
I've never felt such a closeness for a place - not even Boston - as I do for Bagar. Boston, Chadds Ford, and Baltimore have special meaning for me because of my personal history with those places as well as the fact that the people I love live there.
I love Bagar because it's mine. I've played a part and have contributed to the culture of Bagar.
I still remember the day we arrived and the bus dropped us off in front of Piramal Nagar. To my naive eye, Bagar seemed like the middle of the desert. Now I know. I know how green Bagar is. How a small town with six cell phone towers and 35 educational institutions can have the feel of a village. I know all about the local of culture of feeding guests until they burst and the elegant way men touch their hearts to greet someone.
In anticipation of her leaving Bagar, a colleague of mine sent me a beautiful email. And now, in my emotional, confused state I turn to her to clearly express how I feel: I'm going to miss Saurav and Saurabh and how they would insist on coming at 5:30 am to run (and not always make it), Anita and Savita Saini's laughs, their mom's threats to beat me with a shoe after I had not visited for a long time, Chandi's gentleness, Bunty's dancing, my summer camp kids and their ability to make me cry and laugh within a span of 10 minutes, Muktha's ability to always look good, Mumta's and Neelam's sass, Deepa's smile and Praveen's sky high heels, Ravi's "hello ma'am," Suresh's mocking of my chai, Jithendra's confused looks, Upendra's shyness, Naresh's confidence, the way Amit & Chinu would always come to shake my hand and Priyanka would run into me after school and take my hand so we could walk home together, Monica's "didi! didi!" in the most high-pitched voice imagineable, Vinayak Restaurant's sandwiches and Riddhi Siddhi's lassis, Swamiji's dancing, L C Sharmaji's warmth, the way Pankaj was always around, my fights with Karthik, eating Dhadhichji's pedas (which were especially good when I remembered that he was up all night for Ram Leela practices), Shakuntalaji's devotion to her cows, Praveen's dedication to "physical fit," Shiv Bhagwanji's booming voice, the irritating subzi wallah who I continued to go back to, Lilesh reading the newspaper and informing me that people drive too quickly these days, Sonu's exclamation of glee after I say Ram Ram!
There are people I am forgetting but, let's face it, this list is endless.
I have 10 more days in Bagar. I think I'll tell all these people how much I love them and make sure they know I'm thankful for having met them. Lots to do!
I've never felt such a closeness for a place - not even Boston - as I do for Bagar. Boston, Chadds Ford, and Baltimore have special meaning for me because of my personal history with those places as well as the fact that the people I love live there.
I love Bagar because it's mine. I've played a part and have contributed to the culture of Bagar.
I still remember the day we arrived and the bus dropped us off in front of Piramal Nagar. To my naive eye, Bagar seemed like the middle of the desert. Now I know. I know how green Bagar is. How a small town with six cell phone towers and 35 educational institutions can have the feel of a village. I know all about the local of culture of feeding guests until they burst and the elegant way men touch their hearts to greet someone.
In anticipation of her leaving Bagar, a colleague of mine sent me a beautiful email. And now, in my emotional, confused state I turn to her to clearly express how I feel: I'm going to miss Saurav and Saurabh and how they would insist on coming at 5:30 am to run (and not always make it), Anita and Savita Saini's laughs, their mom's threats to beat me with a shoe after I had not visited for a long time, Chandi's gentleness, Bunty's dancing, my summer camp kids and their ability to make me cry and laugh within a span of 10 minutes, Muktha's ability to always look good, Mumta's and Neelam's sass, Deepa's smile and Praveen's sky high heels, Ravi's "hello ma'am," Suresh's mocking of my chai, Jithendra's confused looks, Upendra's shyness, Naresh's confidence, the way Amit & Chinu would always come to shake my hand and Priyanka would run into me after school and take my hand so we could walk home together, Monica's "didi! didi!" in the most high-pitched voice imagineable, Vinayak Restaurant's sandwiches and Riddhi Siddhi's lassis, Swamiji's dancing, L C Sharmaji's warmth, the way Pankaj was always around, my fights with Karthik, eating Dhadhichji's pedas (which were especially good when I remembered that he was up all night for Ram Leela practices), Shakuntalaji's devotion to her cows, Praveen's dedication to "physical fit," Shiv Bhagwanji's booming voice, the irritating subzi wallah who I continued to go back to, Lilesh reading the newspaper and informing me that people drive too quickly these days, Sonu's exclamation of glee after I say Ram Ram!
There are people I am forgetting but, let's face it, this list is endless.
I have 10 more days in Bagar. I think I'll tell all these people how much I love them and make sure they know I'm thankful for having met them. Lots to do!
Monday, July 7, 2008
Hindsight is 20/20
I apologize for the cliche post title.
I'm not sure how useful it is to wish to be like someone else, but I can't contain my admiration for people who demonstrate such passion about something - whether it's something as universally passion-inciting as the treatment of women in Rajasthan; or something that seems so trivial, such as an injustice committed by a book reviewer - the kind that makes you write lines and lines detailing why the critic was so wrong!
This ability to feel so strongly about something has to stem from a strong set of values - something I know I'm very ambiguous about. Which makes me feel like I've - to a certain extent - wasted the two years in India...This was partly why I came. To clear those doubts.
A few people have asked me if Bagar was worth it. I have definitely grown in many ways and learned many things. Every day for one month I was telling my students, "pura faida utaana," (loosely translates to, "take advantage of the opportunity."). I should have followed my own advice.
I'm not sure how useful it is to wish to be like someone else, but I can't contain my admiration for people who demonstrate such passion about something - whether it's something as universally passion-inciting as the treatment of women in Rajasthan; or something that seems so trivial, such as an injustice committed by a book reviewer - the kind that makes you write lines and lines detailing why the critic was so wrong!
This ability to feel so strongly about something has to stem from a strong set of values - something I know I'm very ambiguous about. Which makes me feel like I've - to a certain extent - wasted the two years in India...This was partly why I came. To clear those doubts.
A few people have asked me if Bagar was worth it. I have definitely grown in many ways and learned many things. Every day for one month I was telling my students, "pura faida utaana," (loosely translates to, "take advantage of the opportunity."). I should have followed my own advice.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Privilege: Curse or a Boon?
One striking difference between my experience and the experience of young people in Bagar (I'm not informed enough to generalize about all of India) is that I grew up thinking that I should choose a profession that I'm passionate about. My high school guidance counselor had us take career assessment tests so that we would be aware of our skills and strengths and would be able to choose a career accordingly. I don't remember what my assessment results were.
The kids I work with are coming from a very different place. For one thing, their idea of career options is extremely limited. Second, they tend to gravitate towards options in which other people in their community (their role models) have found success. Therefore, if one person becomes a chartered accountant (CA), the other young people in the neighborhood will strive for the same.
One colleague posed the question, "is choosing your profession based on what you are passionate about a privilege?" As much as we cringed, the majority of the people involved in the conversation - myself included - immediately agreed.
Money isn't the only thing that affords this privilege, however. One thing I've learned is that, aside from money, the most significant difference between me and the Amit Katewas or Umesh Tailors of the world is the fact that I have a strong support network that is going to question any decision I consider and support any decision I make.
But even with this privilege, will I find what I'm passionate about? Or will I jump from job to job, becoming a spokesperson for modern time's confused generation? I don't know. Are unrealistic or unreachable expectations side effects of "privilege"?
I came across the following article from the NY Times, that explores how students from top American schools pick their first jobs. It attempts to challenge the notion that privilege permits the soul-searching required to land that "perfect" job. But, in reality, financial restrictions that students from rural India face are on a completely different plane than the social restrictions that the "privileged" need to consider.
As usual, lots of rambling and no conclusion. Good night.
The kids I work with are coming from a very different place. For one thing, their idea of career options is extremely limited. Second, they tend to gravitate towards options in which other people in their community (their role models) have found success. Therefore, if one person becomes a chartered accountant (CA), the other young people in the neighborhood will strive for the same.
One colleague posed the question, "is choosing your profession based on what you are passionate about a privilege?" As much as we cringed, the majority of the people involved in the conversation - myself included - immediately agreed.
Money isn't the only thing that affords this privilege, however. One thing I've learned is that, aside from money, the most significant difference between me and the Amit Katewas or Umesh Tailors of the world is the fact that I have a strong support network that is going to question any decision I consider and support any decision I make.
But even with this privilege, will I find what I'm passionate about? Or will I jump from job to job, becoming a spokesperson for modern time's confused generation? I don't know. Are unrealistic or unreachable expectations side effects of "privilege"?
I came across the following article from the NY Times, that explores how students from top American schools pick their first jobs. It attempts to challenge the notion that privilege permits the soul-searching required to land that "perfect" job. But, in reality, financial restrictions that students from rural India face are on a completely different plane than the social restrictions that the "privileged" need to consider.
As usual, lots of rambling and no conclusion. Good night.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Images of Summer Camp
I have been meaning to post some photos from summer camp. The following images are from a session that Zainab (an intern with Source for Change) led. The kids had to stage short skits using a dupatta, a broom, a tray, a few balls, a stool, and a newspaper.
The planning stage
Sanjit practicing for when he joins the army. Note that his gun resembles a broom.
Naveen is crying for his food. By the looks of it, everyone else was having fun!
The planning stage
Sanjit practicing for when he joins the army. Note that his gun resembles a broom.
Naveen is crying for his food. By the looks of it, everyone else was having fun!
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Another test, but [most] campers pass with flying colors
As I walked back from the B. Ed. Hostel, I noticed three boys sitting at the top of the stadium steps. They were obviously trying to appear conspicuous, so I went to see what was up. That's when I heard the unmistakable sound of a glass bottle. The boys had decided it made sense to drink. In the middle of a Rajasthani summer day. In the open. At a high traffic time.
We have told the campers numerous times that any bad behavior is not only a reflection of them, but a reflection of the summer camp and GDL. And today, the actions of one camper and his friends proved my point. We brought the issues to the attention of our "local guardian," who was able to use this and other incidents as proof that we are creating more trouble than good.
But my resolve has not been shaken. I have seen changes in our students. I don't know what they do at home, but I DO know that today they were engaged in a debate about whether hockey or cricket should be the national sport. And the entire debate was in English! I DO know that a student recognized that someone had information about becoming a chartered accountant and, after class, approached that person for help!
No one can tell me that nothing has changed.
We have told the campers numerous times that any bad behavior is not only a reflection of them, but a reflection of the summer camp and GDL. And today, the actions of one camper and his friends proved my point. We brought the issues to the attention of our "local guardian," who was able to use this and other incidents as proof that we are creating more trouble than good.
But my resolve has not been shaken. I have seen changes in our students. I don't know what they do at home, but I DO know that today they were engaged in a debate about whether hockey or cricket should be the national sport. And the entire debate was in English! I DO know that a student recognized that someone had information about becoming a chartered accountant and, after class, approached that person for help!
No one can tell me that nothing has changed.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
One rotton apple...
...highlights how good the other apples are!
A student put tobacco in a bottle of water today. Yea, I didn't get it either. I have my suspicions of who did it, but haven't made any accusations yet. I have told the class that until the prankster reveals himself (I'm assuming it wasn't Nidhi), everyone in the class loses out on computer time.
I mean, boys will be boys, right? Doesn't mean I have to take it. I'm pretty proud of how I handled it - no yelling or screaming.
But I still don't know how to process it? I mean, one of my biggest complaints has been that the kids aren't creative? I'd never heard of polluting the classroom's water before!
But the situation isn't all bad. In the past few days, there have been many indications that all the students, save one or two (my suspects), have come a long way since the beginning of the camp. Today, Ragvindra asked me for permission to leave camp early because he had to go to Jhunjhunu to pick something up for the house. I asked him if it was absolutely necessary that he went, but in the end said he could go. Naturally, I was surprised when I walked into class and he was sitting in his usual seat in the front row! I feel so badly for him. The whole tobacco in water incident made part of the English class useless.
And in another case, when a few of the local boys were bothering one of my interns, the Baktavpura Boys came to her rescue. Such chivalrous gentlemen! Or at least they're getting there.
A student put tobacco in a bottle of water today. Yea, I didn't get it either. I have my suspicions of who did it, but haven't made any accusations yet. I have told the class that until the prankster reveals himself (I'm assuming it wasn't Nidhi), everyone in the class loses out on computer time.
I mean, boys will be boys, right? Doesn't mean I have to take it. I'm pretty proud of how I handled it - no yelling or screaming.
But I still don't know how to process it? I mean, one of my biggest complaints has been that the kids aren't creative? I'd never heard of polluting the classroom's water before!
But the situation isn't all bad. In the past few days, there have been many indications that all the students, save one or two (my suspects), have come a long way since the beginning of the camp. Today, Ragvindra asked me for permission to leave camp early because he had to go to Jhunjhunu to pick something up for the house. I asked him if it was absolutely necessary that he went, but in the end said he could go. Naturally, I was surprised when I walked into class and he was sitting in his usual seat in the front row! I feel so badly for him. The whole tobacco in water incident made part of the English class useless.
And in another case, when a few of the local boys were bothering one of my interns, the Baktavpura Boys came to her rescue. Such chivalrous gentlemen! Or at least they're getting there.
Saturday, May 31, 2008
The Lost Boys
I have spent the last 22 months laughing off those who tell me people can't change. That anything I'm doing is for naught. Today, for the first time, I began to think that maybe they are right.
We've been running a summer camp for 11th & 12th class students. A lot of the students are extremely intelligent and show potential. In spite of the fact that they are a rowdy group, I have been able to convince myself that these students are not taking advantage of us; that they are not there for "time pass".
I think I ran out of steam. A group of the "Bhaktavpura Boys" showed up at a screening of Sholay that we hosted. It was nice to see them there. Like I said, they have impressed me. But, as I stepped out to get something to eat, I saw them hanging out in their jeep - something that usually indicates an "up to no good" activity. I can't explain why I couldn't rationalize their behavior. I forgot that they are 17 year old boys; that they still have time to "grow up." All I know is that any good feelings I had accumulated from the past week quickly escaped, leaving me deflated. Any belief that I had held on to; any hope that I had that we could change the direction of their lives - gone.
And because I'm so emotionally invested; because I know what they are capable of, it hurts.
I had big dreams for them.
We've been running a summer camp for 11th & 12th class students. A lot of the students are extremely intelligent and show potential. In spite of the fact that they are a rowdy group, I have been able to convince myself that these students are not taking advantage of us; that they are not there for "time pass".
I think I ran out of steam. A group of the "Bhaktavpura Boys" showed up at a screening of Sholay that we hosted. It was nice to see them there. Like I said, they have impressed me. But, as I stepped out to get something to eat, I saw them hanging out in their jeep - something that usually indicates an "up to no good" activity. I can't explain why I couldn't rationalize their behavior. I forgot that they are 17 year old boys; that they still have time to "grow up." All I know is that any good feelings I had accumulated from the past week quickly escaped, leaving me deflated. Any belief that I had held on to; any hope that I had that we could change the direction of their lives - gone.
And because I'm so emotionally invested; because I know what they are capable of, it hurts.
I had big dreams for them.
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Carpe Diem
After coming to India, I had promised myself that I would ride on top of a bus. On Sunday, I kept that promise.
A colleague suggested that we take a day trip to Mandawa to see the havelis [these Indian mansions are especially famous in the Shekhawati region and are characterized by the wall paintings]. So, after stocking up with Mridul water, sunblock, and an extra set clothes (in case we found the elusive Mandawa swimming pool), seven of us set off.
Upon arriving in Mandawa, we opted to not hire a guide. We were very fortunate to find people at each stop who were ready to show us around. One guide was the owner of the haveli who happened to be visiting Mandawa for a few hours. He was extremely excited to see us because he usually shows foreigners around - very few Indians have shown interest in the havelis. He also gave us an aloe vera plant that has been planted in our garden.
It was around 8:00 by the time we decided to head back. But there were no buses! Continuing with our lucky streak, we ran into a bus driver and conductor who were finishing up their route for the night, but agreed to take us until Jhunjhunu.
And this is where I saw my chance! The bus was practically empty and was not in any particular hurry. I asked the conductor if we could sit on the top of the bus - a place usually reserved for men when the bus is extremely full. Naturally the conductor thought we were strange, but he agreed. So up we went!
By this point, the camera we had brought along had run out of battery. But the image is still clear and focused in my memory: the expanse of the road ahead of us, the moon draped in cloud-mist, the quick glimpses I got of the jhompdis [Rajasthani huts] on the side of the road as we whizzed by...
It was a special moment for me because one thing I have been trying to adopt is a sense of fearlessness - no, I'm not going to start going bungee-jumping every chance I get. Rather, I'm trying to adopt a state of mind that allows me to avoid those "what if" moments. I wasn't scared about sitting on top of the bus. But the fact that I just went for it; that I recognized the moment and grabbed it...that's pretty momentous for me.
As if nature could feel my adrenaline levels bursting, it sent some crazy weather our way. We spent another night in a sandstorm. To top it off, there was also hail! In May! In Rajasthan! Did I make my point?
I am determined to incorporate the doctrine of carpe diem into my life. Naturally, it's a scary transition. But Sunday was proof that it is worth it.
No regrets.
A colleague suggested that we take a day trip to Mandawa to see the havelis [these Indian mansions are especially famous in the Shekhawati region and are characterized by the wall paintings]. So, after stocking up with Mridul water, sunblock, and an extra set clothes (in case we found the elusive Mandawa swimming pool), seven of us set off.
Upon arriving in Mandawa, we opted to not hire a guide. We were very fortunate to find people at each stop who were ready to show us around. One guide was the owner of the haveli who happened to be visiting Mandawa for a few hours. He was extremely excited to see us because he usually shows foreigners around - very few Indians have shown interest in the havelis. He also gave us an aloe vera plant that has been planted in our garden.
It was around 8:00 by the time we decided to head back. But there were no buses! Continuing with our lucky streak, we ran into a bus driver and conductor who were finishing up their route for the night, but agreed to take us until Jhunjhunu.
And this is where I saw my chance! The bus was practically empty and was not in any particular hurry. I asked the conductor if we could sit on the top of the bus - a place usually reserved for men when the bus is extremely full. Naturally the conductor thought we were strange, but he agreed. So up we went!
By this point, the camera we had brought along had run out of battery. But the image is still clear and focused in my memory: the expanse of the road ahead of us, the moon draped in cloud-mist, the quick glimpses I got of the jhompdis [Rajasthani huts] on the side of the road as we whizzed by...
It was a special moment for me because one thing I have been trying to adopt is a sense of fearlessness - no, I'm not going to start going bungee-jumping every chance I get. Rather, I'm trying to adopt a state of mind that allows me to avoid those "what if" moments. I wasn't scared about sitting on top of the bus. But the fact that I just went for it; that I recognized the moment and grabbed it...that's pretty momentous for me.
As if nature could feel my adrenaline levels bursting, it sent some crazy weather our way. We spent another night in a sandstorm. To top it off, there was also hail! In May! In Rajasthan! Did I make my point?
I am determined to incorporate the doctrine of carpe diem into my life. Naturally, it's a scary transition. But Sunday was proof that it is worth it.
No regrets.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
An observation...
The hurricane in Myanmar. The earthquake in China. The blasts in India. All happening in one week and all exposing the best and the worst in people.
These tragedies strengthen our resolve to survive; suddenly remind us that there is a world beyond the one we know.
It's a bittersweet tendency that we allow ourselves to see the positives that come out of such horrible events; a coping mechanism that we use when we feel helpless.
My heart goes out to any one affected by the events of this past week...
These tragedies strengthen our resolve to survive; suddenly remind us that there is a world beyond the one we know.
It's a bittersweet tendency that we allow ourselves to see the positives that come out of such horrible events; a coping mechanism that we use when we feel helpless.
My heart goes out to any one affected by the events of this past week...
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Learning English: Creating opportunities - but at what expense?
Like many young people in Bagar, Vidyadhar is looking for a job. This past Sunday, he came to our office to get a print out of the form he needs to apply for a constable position in Delhi. The application is completely in English and the post requires some English. Vidyadhar doesn't have a chance.
I was resistant to starting English classes at GDL. I believed it to be a statement that GDL recognized English as superior. Thankfully, objectivity won over selfish ideologism and I've finally come to terms with the fact that English has become the "global language." I realize that it is my responsibility to expose the people in my community to opportunities. Teaching English does that.
But, the following facts really bother me:
1) English is considered "superior." This is due to the fact that knowing English results in more and better paying opportunities. But it's a dangerous and damaging opinion. One that creates gaps within Indian society and devalues
heritage and culture.
2) It is EXTREMELY difficult for someone from certain backgrounds to become conversant in Hindi. The English teaching I have seen - both at schools and in institutions specifically set up to teach English - is not effective. English teachers need to go through refresher courses of their own and there needs to be more awareness regarding best practices in teaching a language.
3) There is an information gap. Knowing English opens up many doors because so much information is in English. On many occasions, students have asked me various career-related questions such as "what [they] need to complete a certain degree," or "what is the scope in a certain field." These are questions whose answers I easily find on the internet. One of my biggest value-adds to Bagar is that I know English and can surf the net. I know a few of my peers were talking about addressing this issue, and I hope something is still in the works.
It makes sense that people value English. But how does one promote other languages? Two questions I would like to conclude this post with:
1) How does language affect identity at an individual level?
2) Aside from what it can do for us financially, what motivates us to respect English or any other languages?
I was resistant to starting English classes at GDL. I believed it to be a statement that GDL recognized English as superior. Thankfully, objectivity won over selfish ideologism and I've finally come to terms with the fact that English has become the "global language." I realize that it is my responsibility to expose the people in my community to opportunities. Teaching English does that.
But, the following facts really bother me:
1) English is considered "superior." This is due to the fact that knowing English results in more and better paying opportunities. But it's a dangerous and damaging opinion. One that creates gaps within Indian society and devalues
heritage and culture.
2) It is EXTREMELY difficult for someone from certain backgrounds to become conversant in Hindi. The English teaching I have seen - both at schools and in institutions specifically set up to teach English - is not effective. English teachers need to go through refresher courses of their own and there needs to be more awareness regarding best practices in teaching a language.
3) There is an information gap. Knowing English opens up many doors because so much information is in English. On many occasions, students have asked me various career-related questions such as "what [they] need to complete a certain degree," or "what is the scope in a certain field." These are questions whose answers I easily find on the internet. One of my biggest value-adds to Bagar is that I know English and can surf the net. I know a few of my peers were talking about addressing this issue, and I hope something is still in the works.
It makes sense that people value English. But how does one promote other languages? Two questions I would like to conclude this post with:
1) How does language affect identity at an individual level?
2) Aside from what it can do for us financially, what motivates us to respect English or any other languages?
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Fashion Shows AND Farmers' Suicides - Part II
This is a quick post in response to the comments to my previous post. My point was that the perceived gap is just going to increase if journalists choose to focus on Fashion Week. BUT recognizing that this is what sells, why not use this as a forum to facilitate understanding of serious issues like the suicides?
Furthermore, I strongly believe that as long as Vidarbha seems like a different world to the people who are more interested in Ritu Kumar's new line (yes, I know who Ritu Kumar is), they're not going to feel compelled to try to understand what is going on, what it means, or how they can help. It will always be someone else's problem.
I came to rural India because I recognize it as a part of who I am. Maybe it's because I didn't grow up with the idea of two Indias. Based on discussions I have had with people in the cities, however, I'm not sure many people in "that" India see rural India as part of who they are. This is a divide that I feel journalism can help eliminate.
Furthermore, I strongly believe that as long as Vidarbha seems like a different world to the people who are more interested in Ritu Kumar's new line (yes, I know who Ritu Kumar is), they're not going to feel compelled to try to understand what is going on, what it means, or how they can help. It will always be someone else's problem.
I came to rural India because I recognize it as a part of who I am. Maybe it's because I didn't grow up with the idea of two Indias. Based on discussions I have had with people in the cities, however, I'm not sure many people in "that" India see rural India as part of who they are. This is a divide that I feel journalism can help eliminate.
Friday, May 9, 2008
Fashion Shows AND Farmers' Suicides
In his column for Mint ("Media and Moral Outrage"), Salil Tripathi defends Indian journalists against criticisms made by fellow journalist P. Sainath.
Although Tripathi's main point is that journalism needs to be objective, what struck me was his his response to Sainath's judgment that stories about fashion shows and the like are "frivolous." Tripathi writes that:
"By juxtaposing a fashion event with the Vidarbha farmers' suicides, Sainath is pitting the so-called India against Bharat, or "shining" India versus "declining" India. Far from solving any problem, it accentuates an unnecessary divide."
This is the most insightful comment in the column and inspired me to delve more deeply into the role of journalism in a society such as India's, which is rapidly evolving and, as a result, trying to figure out its identity.
After having lived in rural India for more than a year, one of my biggest frustrations has been the lack of synergy. Bagar, the town in which I work, has 35 educational institutions. Yes. 35. But Bagar is case and point that quantity does not always equal quality: Students float from school to school. So do teachers. Student attendance is not consistent. I mean, this list could go on and on. And these are not problems unique to Bagar.
The problem is an unhealthy level of competition. Unhealthy in the sense that the competition does not result in an improved product (education). I have yet to hear someone say that schools should work together because they share a common purpose.
That's what came to mind when I read the above passage. How can India improve if its two identities are constantly treated as that: two separate, isolated identities? Imagine the possibilities if the two Indias felt a loyalty to each other not because they are technically one, but because they FEEL like one.
In today's India(s), I think journalists have a very important mission: to remind EVERYONE of the common purpose.
Although Tripathi's main point is that journalism needs to be objective, what struck me was his his response to Sainath's judgment that stories about fashion shows and the like are "frivolous." Tripathi writes that:
"By juxtaposing a fashion event with the Vidarbha farmers' suicides, Sainath is pitting the so-called India against Bharat, or "shining" India versus "declining" India. Far from solving any problem, it accentuates an unnecessary divide."
This is the most insightful comment in the column and inspired me to delve more deeply into the role of journalism in a society such as India's, which is rapidly evolving and, as a result, trying to figure out its identity.
After having lived in rural India for more than a year, one of my biggest frustrations has been the lack of synergy. Bagar, the town in which I work, has 35 educational institutions. Yes. 35. But Bagar is case and point that quantity does not always equal quality: Students float from school to school. So do teachers. Student attendance is not consistent. I mean, this list could go on and on. And these are not problems unique to Bagar.
The problem is an unhealthy level of competition. Unhealthy in the sense that the competition does not result in an improved product (education). I have yet to hear someone say that schools should work together because they share a common purpose.
That's what came to mind when I read the above passage. How can India improve if its two identities are constantly treated as that: two separate, isolated identities? Imagine the possibilities if the two Indias felt a loyalty to each other not because they are technically one, but because they FEEL like one.
In today's India(s), I think journalists have a very important mission: to remind EVERYONE of the common purpose.
Thursday, May 1, 2008
The initiation
Well, I've managed to stay away from the blogging bandwagon for so long. But that's no reason to keep on resisting. This decision to start this blog is a result of many factors including:
a) the realization that if I do want to explore a career in writing, I'm going to have to share some of my work
and
b) the fact that the last 18 months have been life-changing and it's a complete shame that I have very little documentation of them
Good enough reasons, don't you think?
------------------------------------------------------------------------
A major reason for the resistance has been that a lot of the blogs I read have a theme, a purpose. I am yet to identify my purpose, my path. BUT, as my blog title suggests, I feel like I am about to get there. So maybe that's what this blog is about.
My optimistic thought of the day: if I do finally make it past this cusp, do I get to change my blog title? I guess I'm getting a little ahead of myself.
But anyway, here I am: aspiring journalist, changemaker, fashionista, educationist.
a) the realization that if I do want to explore a career in writing, I'm going to have to share some of my work
and
Good enough reasons, don't you think?
------------------------------------------------------------------------
A major reason for the resistance has been that a lot of the blogs I read have a theme, a purpose. I am yet to identify my purpose, my path. BUT, as my blog title suggests, I feel like I am about to get there. So maybe that's what this blog is about.
My optimistic thought of the day: if I do finally make it past this cusp, do I get to change my blog title? I guess I'm getting a little ahead of myself.
But anyway, here I am: aspiring journalist, changemaker, fashionista, educationist.
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