Dear Friends,
Many of you are probably aware of the situation in Manipur, a state in North-East India where violence broke out earlier this summer between two ethnic groups – the Meiteis (Hindu) and the Kukis (Christian). The state of Manipur has a history of conflict between these two groups, dating back to before India became an independent country in the 40s. The state government is controlled by Meiteis, and tensions have been high as more and more policies are implemented that threaten the rights of the Kuki people. What began as student protests has escalated into extreme violence throughout the area, threatening to cast the state of Manipur into a civil war.
Many Kuki homes and churches have been burned and destroyed. Hundreds have died, and tens of thousands have been displaced from their homes. Women in particular have been a target of the violence and abuse, and disturbing videos of the obscene acts carried out against these women have circulated online, sparking outrage and calls for the Indian government to step in and take action. The current situation in Manipur reminds us how much work there is yet to be done, and how vitally important the work being done at New Horizons House really is.
As of now, we have had 23 girls graduate from the NHH program, and over 90% of them have either started their own business, gotten married and started families, or moved to another safe living situation. It’s amazing to think about how different their life could have been had they never been brought to us at NHH. We are giving them the tools to become strong, independent women and these girls will ultimately become the ones who take action and the voices that speak up against the kind of violence we’re seeing in Manipur.
As we continue our Capital Campaign to raise money for the construction of a new Transition Home for girls over the age of 18, we keep these truths top of mind, and constantly remind ourselves how important this work really is. We appreciate you all for being a part of it, and for the difference you’re making. Thank you, from us and from the girls in India.
Christie Spencer
Board Member