“The International Day of the World’s Indigenous People” was celebrated on 11th of August 2024, at St. Theresa School, Bandra (W), organized by Urban Community Development Centre (UCDC). There were 600 participants: 500 adults and 100 children.
As the participants entered the St. Theresa school hall, they were served with tea and snacks. The programme began at 06:15pm. Ms. Revati and Ms. Priyanka, the Ex-students did the anchoring of the program. They welcomed everyone and introduced the objectives/purpose of the event, and said that we are celebrating the event based on the following objectives:
- To bring unity among Adivasi/Tribal people
- To raise awareness and protect their rights
- To preserve the culture and art
- To promote dignity, respect and fullness of life
The Bandra station students put up a beautiful prayer dance. The dignitaries: Mr. Praveen Kachhap, Fr. Richard Quadros, the Vice Provincial, Fr. Lawrence Correa, the Director of UCDC, Fr. Jerome D’Souza, Fr. Melroy Mascarenhas, Sr. Prisca Dias from St. Joseph and Deacon Frankie Nunes, SJ from St. Peter’s were called on to the stage. The choir sang and danced in rhythm with a meaningful welcome song. Fr. Cosmos introduced all the dignitaries and they were given one each plant as a gesture of welcome.
The chief guest of the day, Mr. Praveen Kachhap spoke on the theme: ‘Our Future is in our Hands’. He emphasized on aspects of unity, higher education, skill development and health. He highlighted that Tribals/Adivasis are closely connected with nature; Jal, Jangle and Jameen (water, forest and land) which give identity to them. During the program all the dignitaries were given time to speak. Fr. Richard Quadros said that migration is part and parcel of human life and he also stressed on safe migration. Deacon Frankie said that all the migrants should avail the benefit from the NGOs at their respective place in Mumbai. He added saying, here at Bandra, UCDC is offering a great service to many migrants. A number of groups from Bandra West participated in dance competition and Adivasi Culture Fashion Show. The winners were awarded with trophies with UCDC Logo on it. Fr. Cosmos thanked all the dignitaries for their presence and guidance and also thanked the people who participated actively in the programme. All the participants went home with a sense of unity and contentment.
