From shadow to spotlight: Nagaland honours domestic workers' contributions

DIMAPUR — The National Domestic Workers Movement (NDWM) Nagaland Region and Assisi Centre for Integrated Development (ACID) co-hosted an early celebration of International Domestic Workers Day at Assisi Auditorium, Dimapur, on June 14.

Held on the theme ‘From the shadow to the spotlight: Valuing domestic workers’ contribution,’ the event brou

ght together over 300 domestic workers and their supporters to honour their essential role in society, an update stated.

In her address, guest of honour Sr. Benny Fernandes acknowledged the often-invisible labour of domestic workers.

“Because of you, our homes are clean, the sick are cared for, and our children and elders are looked after,” she said, emphasising that their work underpins the community and economy.

Sr. Benny Fernandes urged for fair working conditions and rights protection, reminding the attendees that they are deeply valued.

Chief guest Dr. Fr. CP Anto, Principal of NEISSR, lauded the organisers for providing a platform where domestic workers could come together, find solidarity, and momentarily step away from their daily challenges.

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Fr. Anto urged immediate action against child labour, noting that over 11,000 children in Nagaland are working domestically instead of receiving an education. This call to action aligns with International Domestic Workers Day on June 16, which honours domestic workers' contributions and marks the 2011 International Labour Organisation (ILO) Convention No. 189, recognising domestic labour as work worthy of rights and protections.

“Domestic workers, predominantly women and girls, are the backbone of many households and economies, providing essential services like cleaning, cooking, and care giving.

“Despite their invaluable role, many, especially in India, remain in the informal sector, lacking job security, fair wages, and social protection. In Nagaland, with the increase of working women and nuclear families, domestic work is rising, yet exploitation and discrimination persist,” the update stated.

On the occasion, the gathering called for collective recognition of domestic work as real work, ensuring domestic workers are included in labour laws, providing access to healthcare, social security, and education, and promoting respect, safety, and freedom from abuse.

Priya, a legal advocate, praised the growing confidence among the workers to voice their concerns. “No one can take away your rights,” she affirmed, reassuring them of her unwavering support in their fight for justice and dignity.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Asela.

The celebration served as a powerful reminder of the indispensable contributions of domestic workers and the collective responsibility to ensure they are seen, heard, and protected.

Earlier, the vent commenced with a prayer followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp.

In her welcome address, Sr. Pramila, Director of ACID and Coordinator of NDWM Nagaland Region, stated that, “This celebration is not just a moment of joy, but a renewed call to action.”

“It is a call to uplift domestic workers, ensure their voices are heard, and bring them out of the margins and into the light.”

The cultural programme featured colourful Rongmei, Marwari, and Hindi dances that showcased the rich diversity of the various communities.