Muslim Civic Coalition Congratulates SACRED on the Successful International Dalit Literature Festival
Chicago, IL – April 23, 2026 – On Saturday, April 18, 2026, the Muslim Civic Coalition proudly co-sponsored the International Dalit Literature Festival, a vibrant and impactful celebration hosted by SACRED in partnership with Midwest Ambedkarites and NEIU at Roosevelt University’s Schaumburg Campus.
The event commemorated the 135th birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the chief architect of India’s secular constitution and a global icon who courageously challenged the caste system and fought for the dignity and rights of Dalit communities. This festival was especially important because it demonstrated the power of literature, art, and culture to confront supremacy ideologies and the caste system that sustains them. By centering Dalit voices — historically marginalized and excluded from education and opportunity — the event fostered awareness, resistance, and solidarity across communities.
The distinguished speaker lineup featured powerful keynote addresses by Professor Shailaja Paik, Charles Phelps Taft Distinguished Research Professor at the University of Cincinnati and MacArthur Fellow (2024), on “Dalit Literature and the Call for Radical Humanism,” and Professor Khalid Ansari, sociologist from Azim Premji University, India, on “Pluralization Challenges to Contemporary Anti-Caste Movements.” Additional speakers included Rev. Dr. S. Helen Chukka of Wartburg Theological Seminary, independent journalist Yashica Dutt, anti-caste activist Dr. Rahul Deepankar, Ashok Kumar of Indiana University, Prof. Gaurav Pathania of Eastern Mennonite University, and Sumeet Samos of the University of Pennsylvania.
The day came alive with striking paintings, engaging panel discussions, literary conversations, cultural expressions, and the book launch of A Tale of Two Mahatmas by Dr. Obed Manwatkar. Participants explored how sharing our stories through art, culture, and literature allows communities to affirm who we truly are, resist erasure, and reclaim our humanity.
Midwest Ambedkarites representative Ashish Patil highlighted the importance of these gatherings, noting that his group has helped organize such events for 7–8 years: “We come together to speak about injustice across the world. Ambedkar’s message is more important than ever.”
The Muslim Civic Coalition was honored to support this initiative alongside partners such as AKSC, AANA, and others. Our participation reflects our deep commitment to working against all forms of supremacy ideology, including the caste system that perpetuates discrimination and division. By amplifying marginalized voices, we advance the shared struggle for dignity, equality, and justice.
“Events like this remind us that the fight against oppression — including caste-based supremacy — is a collective responsibility,” said Sana Akhter from the Muslim Civic Coalition. “When we share our stories through literature, art, and culture, we reclaim our humanity and build bridges of solidarity across communities.”
The Muslim Civic Coalition extends warm congratulations to SACRED, Midwest Ambedkarites, NEIU, and heartfelt thanks to all speakers, volunteers, and attendees for making the 2026 International Dalit Literature Festival a resounding success.
If your organization would like to collaborate with us to amplify voices, challenge supremacy ideologies, and create meaningful impact, please reach out to info@muslimciviccoalition.org