In January 2021 the Chai in the City Open Group for Punjabi men met virtually to discuss the topic of the Kisaan Protests and well-being. Here are some reflections from the brilliant team who facilitate and contribute towards those conversations.
Have the protests brought people together?
The group felt that the protests had brought disparate groups of Punjabis together and created a unity that perhaps was missing before. Many attendees noted that Punjabis of different ages and backgrounds had either attended protests or highlighted issues on social media. It was also noted that many who hadn't taken much interest in events on the sub-continent in the past, had started taking a much closer interest.
What practical things can I take away from this to support protestors ?
The forum felt there was little substantive support that could be offered from overseas. Raising awareness in mainstream international media is likely to be the ceiling of impact. Crowdfunding as a means to support farmers was mentioned as potential way to offer help.
Have you and your family felt overwhelmed by the amount of information and nature of the media coverage of the protests?
Many attendees felt overwhelmed by wall-to-wall media coverage on Punjabi language television. The images of elderly protestors being subjected to violence and extreme conditions had caused much distress. The different points of view and levels of understanding in each household caused some confusion and frustration between family members, particularly around how we can help from across the globe.
