Join us for the fifth edition of “We Speak Too, by Sanitation Workers” in Patna!

This multi-city seminar series foregrounds the voices of sanitation workers from across the value chain to share their stories, challenges, and experiences with a diverse audience. Organised by the Indian Institute for Human Settlements, this month’s event in Patna promises to be just as engaging as the previous seminars held in Bengaluru, Mumbai, Dehradun, and Bhopal.

About the Session
Our moderator is Dr Madhurima Raj, a journalist and academic who has worked extensively on UNICEF’s child rights advocacy initiatives. She holds a doctorate in Women’s History from Patna University and has worked in various academic and development institutions across northern India for over a decade. Dr Madhurima Raj aims to support governments in developmental planning and capacity building on WASH.

Hear from our panellist Kalowati Devi, a solid waste segregator who handles waste, including diapers and sanitary pads, with bare hands due to the lack of protective gear.

Krishna Ram, a blockage removal worker, and Kusum Devi, a community toilet caretaker, will also share their experiences of working in challenging conditions with minimal support.

We will also hear from Rafiqul Islam, who left his home in Assam after a devastating flood and now works as a wastepicker to support his family. Salma Khatun, a street sweeper with the municipal corporation, will speak about her 15 years of employment without sick leave or medical coverage.

Lastly, Binod Ram, a sewage maintenance worker, and Vidya Ram, a desludging operator with the Municipal Corporation, will provide insights into the difficult work they do to keep the city running smoothly.

Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from these inspiring individuals on the theme “The City and Us: Social Protection,” and be a part of the conversation about how we can better support sanitation workers in their critical roles.

Date: Saturday, 29th April 2023
Time: 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Venue: Conference Hall, Bihar Industries Association
Industry House, Sinha Library Road
Patna, Bihar 800001

Do share this invite with your friends and colleagues who may be interested in joining the session!

This “We Speak Too” seminar was held in April 2023.
You can watch the live recording here.