New York City Declares April 14 as Dr B R Ambedkar Day to Honor His Global Legacy

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Posted by NewAdmin on 2025-04-15 08:45:19 |

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In a historic recognition of one of India’s most revered social reformers and intellectuals, New York City has officially declared April 14, 2025, as Dr B R Ambedkar Day. The announcement was made by Deputy Commissioner for the New York City Mayor's Office for International Affairs, Dilip Chauhan, during a special event at the United Nations headquarters. This declaration marks a significant moment in acknowledging Dr Ambedkar’s global legacy and contributions to human rights, democracy, and social justice.

The event commemorated the 134th birth anniversary of Dr Bhim Rao Ambedkar, fondly known as Babasaheb, who played a foundational role in shaping modern India. Dr Ambedkar was the chairman of the Constituent Assembly’s Drafting Committee and is widely regarded as the architect of the Indian Constitution. He also served as the first Law and Justice Minister in independent India under Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru’s cabinet. Beyond India, Dr Ambedkar’s influence has reached global platforms due to his relentless advocacy for the rights of Dalits, women, and other marginalized communities.

Dr Ambedkar's connection to New York is particularly meaningful. He earned his PhD in Economics from Columbia University in 1927 and was later awarded an honorary degree in 1952. His academic journey in the United States laid a strong foundation for his future work in social justice and constitutional reform. Deputy Commissioner Chauhan remarked that Dr Ambedkar’s vision of equality and inclusion aligns with New York City’s own values as a place shaped by immigrants and enriched by diversity.

Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Dr Ramdas Athawale, who delivered the keynote address at the UN, described Dr Ambedkar’s life as a beacon for humanity. He noted that Ambedkar’s principles of equity, representation, and human rights are more relevant today as the international community strives to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. The proclamation by Mayor Eric Adams is seen not only as a symbolic act but as a powerful statement affirming New York’s status as a global capital for justice and human rights. Prior to the UN event, Dr Athawale paid tribute at Dr Ambedkar’s statue in Columbia University’s Lehman Library, calling it a symbol of knowledge and resilience.

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