Bengaluru, December 12 – St. Joseph’s University became a hub of intellectual engagement and advocacy as it hosted an enlightening symposium themed “International Symposium on Human Rights in the Glocal World: Trends and Challenges”. The event, organized by the School of Social Work, brought together scholars, practitioners, and students from across the globe to delve into pressing human rights issues affecting contemporary society.
The symposium began at 9:00 AM with an invocation led by first-year MSW students, setting a reflective and solemn tone. Rev. Fr. Augustine Lourdu, Dean of the School of Social Work, extended a warm welcome to attendees, followed by Dr. Mary Princess Lavanya, Assistant Professor and Convenor of the Symposium, who introduced the event’s theme, emphasizing its relevance in today’s interconnected yet divided world.
Keynote Address: Global Perspectives on Human Rights
The inaugural address was delivered by Dr. Arthur Frankel, a distinguished faculty member at the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW). Drawing on his vast experience, Dr. Frankel shed light on the evolving practice of social work in the United States, with a focus on healthcare access, immigration, gender identity, abortion rights, food security, and LGBTQ+ issues. His insightful observations set the stage for robust discussions throughout the day. The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms. Viola Noronha, leaving participants energized for the sessions ahead.
Engaging Panel Discussions: Addressing Core Human Rights Challenges
The morning session featured a dynamic panel discussion moderated by Fr. Francis Pinto SJ. Esteemed panelists, including Fr. M. Soosai Antony, Mr. R. Manohar, Ms. Geetha Nataraj, Dr. Kiran Jeevan, Dr. Samuel Sathyaseelan, and Mr. Y. J. Rajandra, engaged the audience with thought-provoking deliberations. Key topics included:
Mental Health Stigma in India: Examining societal attitudes and the urgent need for de-stigmatization.
Challenges for Wage Workers: Highlighting the struggles of daily wage laborers in urban slums.
Sexual Harassment and Workplace Well-Being: Exploring the role of organizational culture in ensuring employee rights.
National Health Policy During COVID-19: Insights into public-private partnerships to strengthen healthcare infrastructure.
Equal Pay and Labor Rights: Addressing the plight of marginalized communities and advocating for fair wages.
Justice for Families of Prisoners: Human rights commissions as a beacon of hope.
A vibrant Q&A session followed, with participants engaging the panelists on critical issues.
Afternoon Sessions: Papers and Digital Presentations
The symposium continued with parallel sessions for paper presentations and a digital poster showcase. Moderators Dr. Premajyothi D. and Fr. Simon Paul D’Souza – Assistant Professors School of Social Work, St.Joseph’s University, led discussions that covered a broad spectrum of topics, including:
• The technological impact on human rights, with case studies like Gaza’s conflict.
Sexual violence as a weapon of war and its devastating effects.
Climate justice in the face of global warming.
Income insecurity and the lack of economic rights.
The mental health challenges of mothers raising children with autism.
• Rights of migrant and contract laborers in India.
International students from UNCW presented compelling papers, sharing perspectives on discrimination, poverty, and mental health.
Valedictory Session: Honoring Human Rights Champions
The event concluded with a valedictory session, where Chief Guest Madam Ruth Manorama, a renowned human rights activist, delivered an inspiring address. Prof. Kiran Jeevan, a clinical case practitioner, underscored key takeaways, emphasizing the importance of mental health, employee rights, and labor protections.
Capt. Akshay presented a comprehensive summary of the symposium, followed by closing remarks from Dr. Mary Princess Lavanya, Assistant Professor and Convenor of the Symposium.
Building Bridges for a Just World
Under the patronage of Rev. Dr. Victor Lobo SJ, Vice-Chancellor of St. Joseph’s University, the symposium served as a significant platform for dialogue and action. The event not only deepened understanding but also laid the groundwork for future collaborations in the realm of social work and human rights advocacy. The International Symposium was made a grand success by the active contributions of Dr. Allan Godfrey – Head of the Department, the international students and faculty from UNCW alongside Indian participants from Karnataka and around India, highlighting the truly global spirit of the event.
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