The Untouchables
The Dalits of India are considered to be the least of people. They are not even considered a part of the Indian social hierarchy, known as the caste system. They’ re viewed as dirty, rejects, disposable, animals. They are called the untouchables because no one wants to make contact with their skin. They aren’ t acknowledged as humans.
The young children pictured above are Dalits. Amala rolls cigarettes all day in order to help her family afford food. She must work because the schools will not allow her to attend. Dhaval was painting on this day to help his mother feed his younger siblings. The higher social class people simply ignore these children when passing by. These children are untouchable.
Amala and Dhaval are not unlike the majority of Dalit’ s childhood memories.
The story line remains the same: loved by parents and unwanted by society.
Most Dalit parents believe education will save their children from this life. They realize that in order to prevent future poverty and possible slavery, their children must learn to read and write. But, when the caste system dictates the school system, it is nearly impossible.
Joseph, from the Pipe Village, wished for his children to have an education and one day have opportunities that would ensure them food, safety, and proper housing. Joseph’ s wish came true. A humanitarian-aid organization came to Pipe Village and offered Joseph’ s daughter a scholarship to attend their school. Joseph is very proud of her and the thought of her bright future helps him to survive each day at the pipe factory.
He knows that an education means hope for a better life than he had. Her education will prevent her from so much grief. It will change the direction of their family for generations.
“ Just like the pipes they live in, the people of Pipe Village are rejected and discredited in society.”
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