It is with great excitement and joy that I write to you. For the past 5 years, Adhikaar has been on the frontlines of human rights struggles in New York City. During this holiday time, I am requesting you to join me in supporting this remarkable organization that has brought justice and dignity to thousands of low-wage workers and to invest with me, as Adhikaar plans for the year ahead.
Founded in 2005, Adhikaar is the only organization ensuring that the voices of Nepali-speaking communities are heard in New York and beyond. Nepalis, Tibetans and Bhutanese are among the newest immigrant groups to New York and one of the communities most desperately in need. We work with individuals one-on-one to provide translation, access to health care and legal services, Know Your Rights trainings, English classes, and computer assistance. We also work with progressive organizers and activists across the nation to share best practices and bring about better policies for low-wage workers. We believe the nation is stronger with active participation of our community, and we give access so that our members can be part of democratic change.
Through my work at Adhikaar, I have come across many powerful stories, like that of Maya didi. Maya (name changed) is Nepali woman who lost her husband shortly after marriage. She took a job as a domestic worker in India to support herself and her young son. In 1987, Maya was brought to the US by her employer. For over 20 years, she washed clothes, cleaned floors and did everything her employer asked. She was abused and sometimes refused pay. She had no choice. Separated from her son, she struggled so that he might have a better life. Two years ago, Maya came across Adhikaar. This community has made a world of difference – Maya knows her rights, is learning English, and built her confidence. Maya takes English classes, gets case management support, and has a community of supportive sisters and brothers. She also went to Albany to share her stories with lawmakers and advocate for the Domestic Workers Bill of Rights. She lovingly calls Adhikaar her maiti (mother’s home) where she can share struggles and celebrate victories.
2010 has been historic year for Adhikaar. This year we celebrate many milestones, including:
- passage of New York Domestic Workers Bill of Rights, the first bill of its kind in the nation, which … This is a long time coming and Adhikaar was proud to be at the center of this struggle, speaking at press conferences and vigils and marches from New York City to Albany.
- the report launch of the first community needs assessment of the Nepali community in New York City. The launch of this report helps deepen our strategy and programs to best serve those most in need.
- the campaign to get Nepalis counted in the 2010 US Census. The Census numbers will get the Nepalis recognized as a growing community, and increase access to resources we need to strengthen our community.
Please join me in supporting Adhikaar with a tax-deductible gift. Please fill out the attached form and mail it to Adhikaar or you can donate online. For recent updates about Adhikaar’s work, please visit our website at www.adhikaar.org and join our online community at www.facebook.com/adhikaar. I am also happy to share more information. Please feel free to email me at luna(at)adhikaar.org or call me at 718-937-1117.
Warm wishes to you and your loved ones,
Luna Ranjit
Executive Director
Adhikaar
P.S. You can also support Adhikaar while you shop for gifts this holiday season by using GoodShop.com and choosing Adhikaar as your cause. A percentage of your shopping will go to Adhikaar, without any extra cost to you.
