Date: February 06, 2024
Press Release
Caste Conversation: A New Television Dialogue Against Caste-Based Discrimination
Dalit Lives Matter is an emerging global movement to end caste-based violence, discrimination, and exclusion. On 23rd May 2020, Nawaraj BK and his five friends were brutally murdered in Rukum West while attempting an inter-caste marriage. The massacre laid the foundation of Dalit Lives Matter, and now, it stands fearless against all forms of discrimination and violence.
Casteism has obstructed development and progress for Nepali society and entire human civilization. It is regrettable that the caste system, its dynamics, and outcomes are not challenged critically; and there is no space for constructive and solution-oriented dialogue either.
The exclusionary caste system affects Dalits and marginalized communities the most. They are left behind economically, politically, and socially. Dalit and marginalized communities continue to face exploitation and violence. Structural discrimination and exclusion are still persistent.
Hence, to deliberate with the young generation on caste and its various dynamics, to learn from their experience, and to create a youth narrative to put an end to the divisive, discriminatory, and exclusionary caste system, Dalit Lives Matter has produced a television show “Caste Conversation”. The first season of 12 episodes features youth from diverse communities, gender, language, faith, and physical condition representing all seven provinces.
Shanta Nepali directed Caste Conversation is hosted by Bridhika Senchury. Every episode engages seven youths in self-reflective dialogue, seeking to bring clarity on how caste intersects with gender, love and marital relations, land ownership, art and literature, technology, justice, and education, among others. Caste Conversation airs on Himalaya Television from February 06 (Magh 24) at 9.30 PM.
The caste system and the inequalities and injustices created by it are certainly not exclusive to a single community. Every individual, every community is affected. Hence, there is no alternative to meaningful participation, partnership, and collaboration between people of all castes and communities to end the caste system – a disgrace to humanity.
Therefore, Dalit Lives Matter invites your support, cooperation, and collaboration to make the world a better place to live with dignity.
Thank you.
Pradip Pariyar
Founder and Chair