VIDYAJYOTI ACADEMIC INAUGURATION & STAN SWAMY DAY

Vidyajyoti Delhi, observed its Academic Inauguration Day in remembrance of Fr. Stan Swamy, an Adivasis’ Social Activist who passed away on July 5, 2021, while in prison. The day began with a Holy Eucharist presided over by His Grace Most Rev. Anil J.T. Couto, Metropolitan Archbishop of Delhi and Patron of Vidyajyoti.

Fr. Rajkumar highlighted Fr. Stan Swamy’s commitment to Intellectual and Social Activism, especially his passion for the Adivasi people. Fr. Stan initiated the ‘Bagaicha’ movement, symbolizing diversity, freedom, and liberation from oppression.

Archbishop Anil J. T. Couto praised Vidyajyoti’s contributions, emphasizing the need to dream for a better future and stand for truth and justice like Fr. Stan Swamy.

The day’s second session focused on ‘Stan Swamy Metaphor for Theologizing in Asia.’ Fr. Stany D’Souza SJ, Vice-Chancellor of JCSA, addressed the participants online, encouraging contextual theology and serving the downtrodden.

Fr. Cedric Prakash, an internationally renowned Human Rights and Peace Activist, delivered an inaugural lecture, emphasizing the courage to stand for justice. He stressed three points: Cage (freedom of constitutional values), Bird (standing for the marginalized), and Song (a prophetic call for freedom).

Fr. Cedric highlighted the 5Ps from Stan Swamy’s life: Presence, Participation, Partnership, Pilgrim, and Prophet, urging everyone to engage in transformative action.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks, and participants shared a fellowship meal at VJ residence.

Vidyajyoti’s Academic Inauguration and Stan Swamy Day aimed to honor a visionary activist and inspire a commitment to justice and social transformation.

Vidyajyoti, Delhi.