Dhirendra Kumar, India
A laborer’s fight for climate justice
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A life of struggles and survival
Dhirendra Kumar, a daily wage laborer from Gharshan, Prayagraj, India,
has spent his life facing economic hardship. With limited formal
education and an unstable income, he has worked tirelessly to provide
for his family, which includes his wife, four daughters, and elderly
parents. His livelihood depends on irregular labor opportunities, where
he earns around ₹250-₹500 per day, making survival a daily challenge.
The struggle intensifies during extreme weather conditions, with floods
destroying homes and heatwaves causing severe health issues in his
community.
The Global Assembly experience
Dhirendra was randomly selected as one of the six participants from different
backgrounds to be part of the Global Citizens’ Assembly. Initially, he was
apprehensive—he had never spoken in formal discussions, let alone at an
international forum. However, through participating in climate discussions, he
gained a deeper understanding of how industrial pollution and environmental
policies impact marginalised communities like his own.
At first, I thought climate change was controlled by gods. But at the Assembly, I learned that it is the actions of big corporations and industries burning coal and diesel that are making our lives harder
Finding his voice & taking action
Through the Global Assembly, Dhirendra underwent a personal transformation:
- Overcoming Fear – Initially hesitant to speak, he gradually gained
confidence as he interacted with fellow assembly members.
- Connecting Local to Global – He linked global climate policies to the
struggles of rural workers, making the case that climate action must
include solutions for the poor and marginalised. - Raising Awareness Locally – After returning home, he started
discussions in his village about climate change and the need for
sustainability, using local meetings, schools, and community gatherings
to spread awareness.
