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New York City Mayor Eric Adams praised Ambedkar’s legacy as a political leader, economist and relentless advocate for equality.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams | File Image/AP
New York City officially declared April 14 as Dr Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar Day, in honour of the 134th birth anniversary of the architect of India’s Constitution.
Mayor Eric Adams praised Ambedkar’s legacy as a political leader, economist and relentless advocate for equality. He noted that Ambedkar opposed caste discrimination and worked to protect farmers and tenants in India.
“Generations of people from around the world have crossed oceans seeking new possibilities in New York City. Over time, their contributions have transformed into a vibrant history of bolstering our neighbourhoods and enhancing our city’s rich cultural tapestry,” said Adams.
Noting Ambedkar’s movement against caste discrimination and his fieldwork to uplift marginalised communities, the Mayor said: “After experiencing severe caste discrimination in his youth, he spent the rest of his life fighting for diversity, equity, and inclusion.”
He also emphasised Ambedkar’s lasting call to action, noting that his message — “educate, agitate, organize” — became the cornerstone of his movement.
The mayor underscored New York City’s alignment with Ambedkar’s principles.
“As part of that promise, we must renew our commitment to these ideals every day. I applaud those associated with today’s event for their efforts to honour Dr. Ambedkar’s rich legacy of egalitarianism,” Adams said.
India Hails Move
India’s Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Virendra Kumar took to X and hailed the move by New York City’s Mayor, calling it a symbol of pride for all countrymen.
“This unprecedented honour of Bharat Ratna Baba Saheb Dr. Ambedkar, the vocal voice of civil rights across the seven seas… is a symbol of pride for all the countrymen,” Kumar said.
He further noted that the recognition comes under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi.
Born on April 14, 1891, in Mhow, India, Dr BR Ambedkar was a distinguished economist, political leader, and social reformer. He earned a PhD in economics from Columbia University and a DSc from the London School of Economics. Ambedkar chaired the committee that drafted India’s Constitution.
- Location :
New York, United States of America (USA)
