Sweepers Are Superheroes
March 2019 (Ongoing)
Sweepers Are Superheroes is Pakistan’s first ever digital advocacy campaign, an initiative of Mary James Gill, Executive Director of Center for Law & Justice, to outline horrific attitudes and working conditions of sanitation workers with the prime objective of bringing dignity, safety, and social protection to the sanitation workforce in Pakistan.
Project brief
Center for Law and Justice, we are passionate about advocating for the rights of sanitation workers in Pakistan. Through the strategic use of social media, we've succeeded in shedding light on the significant challenges they face. Our efforts have gained international recognition, with major media outlets like the New York Times, BBC Urdu, Al-Jazeera, and DW Urdu covering our work. Notably, our cause has received endorsements from respected organizations such as UN-Water, USAID Water, WaterAid International, and End Water Poverty. In 2020, we proudly received the Anna Lindh Prize for our commitment to improving the lives of sanitation workers. We take pride in our analytical approach, using cutting-edge tools for policy analysis and strategic development to maximize the effectiveness and impact of our campaigns. Join us in our mission to make a difference in the lives of sanitation workers and their communities.
Aim/Vision
Sweepers Are Superheroes envisions a world where sanitation workers in Pakistan are not sanitation workers are no longer invisible, but celebrated for their invaluable contributions to society. We aim to transform perceptions and policies, highlighting the dignity, respect, and fair treatment that these unsung heroes rightfully deserve. Our aim is to champion their rights, improve their lives, and create a world where every sanitation worker can work with pride and in safety.
Key Accomplishment
Anna Lindh Award: In 2020, we were honored to receive the prestigious Anna Lindh Prize for our unwavering commitment to improving the lives of sanitation workers, further highlighting our dedication to this crucial cause.
Media Recognition: Our impactful use of social media has brought attention to the challenges faced by sanitation workers in Pakistan, earning coverage from prestigious international media outlets such as the New York Times, BBC Urdu, Al-Jazeera, and DW Urdu.
National and Global Endorsements: CLJ has received recognition and support from influential organizations like UN-Water, USAID Water, WaterAid International, and End Water Poverty, both on a national and global scale.
Beneficiaries
With the support of international organizations during the pandemic highlighted the essential role of sanitation workers, advocating for their recognition as frontline heroes by the Punjab Assembly.
Social Impact
Sweepers Are Superheroes has left a profound footprint on society. We've harnessed the power of social media to raise global awareness about the challenges sanitation workers face daily, earning recognition from influential international platforms. Our strategic advocacy and policy analysis have led to improved working conditions and equitable policies for these essential workers, endorsed by prestigious organizations. Our work empowers sanitation workers and their communities, striving for a world where dignity, justice, and equality are a reality for all. Join us in making a meaningful impact.
Key Initiative For The Empowerment Of Sanitation Workers
Empowerment Workshops – July 2019 (Ongoing)
Workshops are conducted regularly, residential, and online, with a primary focus to create an informed, confident, and resilient sanitation workforce. Through our Empowerment Workshops, we aspire to equip sanitation workers with the knowledge and skills they need to advocate for their rights and improve their working conditions.
- Workers’ Rights and Safety Training:
We conduct comprehensive training sessions that educate sanitation workers about their rights and safety protocols. By arming them with this knowledge, we empower them to protect their interests and work in safer environments.
- Capacity-Building Sessions:
We focus on enhancing sanitation workers’ skills, boosting their efficiency, and opening doors to career advancement. These capacity-building sessions equip them with valuable skills to excel in their roles.
- Mental Health and Stress Management:
Sanitation work can be emotionally challenging. To address this, we engage them in mental health and stress management sessions, helping workers cope with the emotional aspects of their jobs and improve their overall well-being.
- Peer Support Groups:
We foster peer support groups within our workshops. These groups create a sense of community and solidarity among participants, offering a platform for sharing experiences and mutual support.
- Expert Collaborations:
Our workshops benefit from collaborations with experts in various fields. These collaborations ensure that our training is comprehensive and of the highest quality, addressing a wide range of empowerment aspects.
Dignity Awards Ceremony - December 2019 (Ongoing)
Every December, in celebration of International Human Rights Day we proudly host the Dignity Awards Ceremony. This annual event serves as a powerful platform to recognize and honor the invaluable contributions of sanitation workers to our society. Here’s how the ceremony continues to make a meaningful impact:
- Engaging Dignitaries and Influencers:
The ceremony brings together dignitaries, influencers, and the public to collectively acknowledge the tireless efforts of sanitation workers. It provides an opportunity for these essential workers to share their stories, making their voices heard on a larger scale.
- Facilitating Expression:
To create a safe and inclusive platform for sanitation workers to express their experiences, challenges, and aspirations. This direct engagement bridges the gap between these workers and decision-makers, fostering mutual understanding and respect.
- Promoting Dialogue:
Meaningful dialogue is encouraged between sanitation workers and key figures from various sectors. This dialogue helps break down barriers, promotes empathy, and drives positive change.
- Raising Public Awareness:
The ceremony plays a crucial role in increasing public awareness about the vital nature of sanitation work. By shedding light on this often overlooked profession, we aim to eliminate stigma and advocate for the dignity that every sanitation worker deserves.
- Advocating for Change:
Through the Dignity Awards Ceremony, we urge policymakers and influencers to address the challenges faced by sanitation workers. This advocacy contributes to the improvement of working conditions and the societal standing of these essential individuals.
- Honoring Bravery and Resilience:
Above all, the ceremony is a platform to honor the bravery and resilience of sanitation workers. We highlight their critical role in ensuring public health and well-being, emphasizing their indispensable contribution to society.
Sanitation Workers’ Protection during COVID-19 – March 2020 to April 2021
With the support of international organizations during the pandemic highlighted the essential role of sanitation workers, advocating for their recognition as frontline heroes by the Punjab Assembly. #SafeHandChallenge4SewperHeroes
Here’s how we made a significant impact during this critical period:
- Advocating for Recognition:
In collaboration with End Water Poverty, we tirelessly advocated for the recognition of sanitation workers as frontline heroes. Our efforts led to the Punjab Assembly passing a resolution, acknowledging the indispensable role played by sanitation workers during the pandemic. This recognition was a pivotal step in acknowledging their dedication and service.
- PPE Distribution Campaign:
With the support of Minority Rights Group International, we launched a PPE distribution campaign in collaboration with Lahore Waste Management Company (LWMC) and Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA). This campaign provided essential safety kits to sanitation workers, ensuring their protection and well-being in the face of heightened health risks.
- Community Awareness:
We conducted targeted awareness-raising campaigns in minority neighborhoods, educating communities about the rights and challenges faced by sanitation workers.
Through lobbying meetings with policymakers, we advocated for improved occupational safety and health (OSH) measures. These efforts aimed to create safer working conditions for sanitation workers and ensure their rights were upheld.
Strategic Litigation on Ending Discrimination against Religious Minorities in Recruitment Policies of Pakistan - March 2021 (Ongoing)
Our ongoing strategic litigation initiative aims to put an end to discrimination against religious minorities in recruitment policies in Pakistan. Here’s an overview of our efforts and achievements in this critical endeavor:
- Supreme Court Petition:
We filed a petition in the Supreme Court of Pakistan challenging the discriminatory “Only non-Muslim required for Sweepers” condition. This legal action represents a pivotal move towards ending discrimination in sanitation worker recruitment policies. The case is currently pending in the court, awaiting a hearing and resolution.
- Legal Research, Strong Case-Building, and Gathering Evidence:
Our initiative involves rigorous legal research and collaboration with a dedicated legal team to construct a compelling case against discriminatory practices. As part of this effort, we gathered 300 public sector job advertisements in Pakistan explicitly excluding Muslims from sanitation work positions. This evidence not only reinforces our commitment to equality and non-discrimination but also played a pivotal role in supporting Pakistan’s National Commission for Human Rights’ campaign and report titled “Unequal Citizenship: Ending Systemic Discrimination against Minorities.
- Advocacy and Awareness:
We actively contributed to raising awareness and advocating for policy changes to address discriminatory recruitment practices. By shedding light on this issue, we have initiated conversations around the urgent need for reform.
- Equal Citizenship Rights:
Our initiative has emphasized the importance of reforms that ensure equal citizenship rights for all individuals, regardless of their religious background. We firmly believe in a society where every citizen enjoys equal opportunities and protection under the law.
- Providing Crucial Evidence:
Our work has provided crucial evidence for policymakers, human rights organizations, advocacy groups, and international forums. We aim to influence change at multiple levels, from policy reforms to public perception.
Our ongoing strategic litigation initiative aims to put an end to discrimination against religious minorities in recruitment policies in Pakistan. Here’s an overview of our efforts and achievements in this critical endeavor:
- Supreme Court Petition:
We filed a petition in the Supreme Court of Pakistan challenging the discriminatory “Only non-Muslim required for Sweepers” condition. This legal action represents a pivotal move towards ending discrimination in sanitation worker recruitment policies. The case is currently pending in the court, awaiting a hearing and resolution.
- Legal Research, Strong Case-Building, and Gathering Evidence:
Our initiative involves rigorous legal research and collaboration with a dedicated legal team to construct a compelling case against discriminatory practices. As part of this effort, we gathered 300 public sector job advertisements in Pakistan explicitly excluding Muslims from sanitation work positions. This evidence not only reinforces our commitment to equality and non-discrimination but also played a pivotal role in supporting Pakistan’s National Commission for Human Rights’ campaign and report titled “Unequal Citizenship: Ending Systemic Discrimination against Minorities.
Sweepers Association Pakistan - January 2022 (Ongoing)
Our initiative, the Sweepers Association Pakistan, launched in January 2022, has become a unique and indispensable platform. It serves as a powerful network connecting sanitation workers’ organizations across 25 districts in Pakistan, with a mission to mobilize and empower sanitation workers. Here’s how this initiative is making a significant impact:
- Unity and Empowerment:
We foster a sense of unity among sanitation workers, promoting their rights and advocating for improved working conditions. Through our platform, we empower them to collectively address the challenges they face.
- Capacity-Building Workshops: The Sweepers Association Pakistan conducts capacity-building workshops and membership drives. These activities enhance sanitation workers’ professional skills and collective strength, equipping them for a brighter future.
- Data Collection:
We collect comprehensive data on violations against sanitation workers, providing tangible evidence to support advocacy efforts. This data is instrumental in exposing systemic issues and guiding policy recommendations.
- Advocacy and Policy Impact:
Our initiative utilizes this data to advocate for change on behalf of this marginalized workforce. We work tirelessly to effect policy changes that address the issues faced by sanitation workers and improve their overall well-being.
- Amplifying Voices:
The Sweepers Association Pakistan offers a crucial platform for sanitation workers to voice their concerns. We ensure their voices are heard, amplified, and taken seriously, pushing for the recognition and respect they rightfully deserve.
Defying the Death Trap: Stories of Pakistani non-Muslim Sewer Workers Dying in the Line of Duty to Save their Co-Workers - April 2022 to January 2023
During this critical period, we co-authored a comprehensive research report in collaboration with Minority Rights Group International. This report, currently pending publication, delves deep into a heart-wrenching narrative: the stories of 80 sewer cleaners who lost their lives in 50 incidents across Baluchistan, Sindh, and Punjab. These workers paid the ultimate price due to the negligence of their officers, inadequate safety equipment, and a lack of essential training.
Our research report serves as a powerful tool to advocate for change and shed light on the dire conditions and patterns of discrimination and neglect that plague sewer cleaners. It emphasizes the life-threatening risks they endure in their selfless efforts to save their co-workers.
We believe that this report will play a crucial role in advocating for improved working conditions and greater recognition of the invaluable contributions made by sanitation workers. It’s a testament to our unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of these essential workers and ensuring they are granted the dignity, respect, and safety they deserve. Stay tuned for the upcoming publication of this impactful report.
White Paper on Plight of Sanitation Workers - Moving Towards Dignified and Decent Working Conditions in WASH Sector - July 2022 to December 2022
In collaboration with the French Embassy Islamabad, we co-authored a comprehensive white paper during this period. This paper is designed to shed light on the significant challenges faced by one of Pakistan’s most vulnerable labor segments—sanitation workers. Our efforts aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of their predicaments and offer a wide-ranging set of recommendations to improve their conditions.
Key highlights of our work include:
- Nationwide Policy Dialogues:
We conducted policy dialogues with key stakeholders, including policymakers, parliamentarians, and sanitation workers’ organizations. These dialogues served as a platform to gather comprehensive insights and perspectives on the challenges faced by sanitation workers.
- Illuminating Struggles:
The white paper presents an in-depth understanding of the struggles faced by sanitation workers within Pakistani society. By highlighting their plight, we aim to bring their issues to the forefront of public discourse.
- Recommendations for Improvement:
The paper provides a comprehensive set of recommendations aimed at enhancing the working conditions of sanitation workers. These recommendations align with international standards and advocate for more dignified and decent working conditions.
- Strategic Advocacy Tool:
While the paper is yet to be published, it will serve as a strategic advocacy tool. Our goal is to leverage this document to influence policy and practice, fostering better treatment and consideration for sanitation workers across Pakistan.
Our work on this white paper underscores our commitment to creating a more equitable and just society. We are dedicated to advocating for the rights and well-being of sanitation workers, ensuring they receive the dignity, respect, and improved conditions they rightfully deserve. Stay tuned for the publication of this impactful white paper.
Support Our Work
At the Center for Law & Justice (CLJ), we are dedicated to protecting the rights and interests of disadvantaged religious communities, women, and labor rights. We work relentlessly to promote dignity, gender justice, participation, collaboration, equality, sustainability, and climate justice.
