This article touches on many of the points not only discussed in class, but also brought up in the "Rubbish" reading. Though at first glance the differences between the New York Department of Sanitation and the "informal yet highly organized" bands who tend to the trash in New Delhi seem numerous, the issues involved in the their demand for recognition are very familiar. The waste managers in New Delhi long for, among many things, "uniforms that they hope will discourage police harassment", which the New York Department of Sanitation dons.
Yet statements like this one
seem to indicate that many, even in high-ranking government positions, still believe it is the nature of the job, not the way a government or a society regards sanitation workers, which dictate "dignity."
I think the second part of the quote, especially after our recent discussion of the Unions, is important to note as well. “The very fact that we have acknowledged that we need to look after their health is a tremendous acknowledgment of their dignity.” As Robin mentioned last night (and of course not to negate the health care provided to those in the Department of Sanitation), the Union only recently received "Heart", they are waiting for "Lung."
How then is dignity achieved? Does it come after a government adequately compensates and recognizes a group? Or is it pride in ones own job?
Thoughts?
Comments (1)
This was interesting (and the post looks great!). And I think the question you pose about dignity is an important one. Yes, there is an element of pride in one's work that is involved but in this case I think recognition and accolades from from the local government would go a very long way. Although it would certainly benefit these people to receive basic tools and gear as promised, it is saddening that not even a salary can be mustered (although this is the case for many people in the "informal" work sector). Also as far as dignity is concerned I think special events like the kind we discussed yesterday (parades, social events, etc.) are key: things that bring these people into the limelight and highlight the fact that although their work may not be glamorous it is absolutely vital. I thought the kicker was a good one:
"If we stop, who is going to do this work instead of us? They know they won't find other people who are willing. Within two days the whole city would be stinking and filthy."
Posted by Maya | September 27, 2007 9:13 PM
Posted on September 27, 2007 21:13