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Mumbai

DB4M gears up with CBCI, CCBI and Secular Organizations on a 10-year Mission Plan for Distressed Migrants

18 August 2024

Life and Health, Migrants and Refugees, Social Ministry, Young at Risk,

News written by: DB4M - Francis Bosco

The second day of the National Migrant Workshop, held in Mumbai on August 17, organized by the Don Bosco for Migrants (DB4M) network partners, saw a collaborative effort with the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI), Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) and other organizations. Together, they drew a comprehensive roadmap for enhancing migrant services, including shelter and basic needs, source and destination services, emergency helplines, data collection, networking and advocacy, workers' collectives, and social integration.

The concluding day began with a Eucharistic celebration by Fr. Santiagu, the Provincial of Hyderabad. The Provincial emphasized the importance of a childlike attitude in working within broad networks rather than confined to narrow circles. The day proceeded with a prayer and reflection by Fr. Jose Sequera and Fr. Marwin from Goa, focusing on the importance of welcoming and serving migrants and refugees.

Fr. Jaison Vadassery, Secretary of Migrations, the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI), stressed the importance of synergy and synodality in fostering a unified national identity rooted in pastoral care. Addressing the pressing issues faced by youth in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, he urged civil societies to collaborate in supporting distressed migrants. He outlined CCBI’s ambitious 10-year mission plan (2025-2035), which focuses on human dignity and pastoral care, and called for collective commitment to this cause. Fr. Jaison proposed practical measures such as creating directories, establishing legal cells, enhancing pastoral care, utilizing the Catholic Connect app for migrant data, celebrating cultural festivals, and strengthening networks to provide shelter support for migrants.

Fr. George Thomas, Secretary of Labour, the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI), shared valuable insights into Kerala’s labour movement. He emphasized the need to move from a parish-centric approach to a more collaborative model in grassroots ministry and highlighted the importance of working together across communities to address workers' challenges. Ms. Felcia Goes added to the discussion by providing details on the efforts of the Workers India Federation and labour unions, underscoring the role of collective action in supporting labour rights and improving conditions for workers.

Addressing the distressed migrant issues, Ms. Bhakti Vardan and Mr. Vishal from Aajeevika Bureau focused on informal labour sector advocacy. At the same time, Fr. Benny from Odisha discussed plans for migrant help desks. Fr. Roshan OMI and Sr. Moksha FMA highlighted collaborative efforts in Tamil Nadu and Mumbai. Ms. Shweta from the Working People’s Charter and Sr. Christy from the National Domestic Workers Federation emphasized campaigns for worker rights. Fr. Junus from Shillong, Mr. Vishal from India Labour Line, and Fr. Amit Kujur SJ from Mumbai discussed support for migrant education, legal aid, and cultural adaptation.