All protests may not lead to victory, but they change social mindsets: Sarah Joseph 

Renowned writer-activist Sarah Joseph emphasizes the lasting impact of public agitations on societal consciousness at celebratory event.

Renowned writer-activist Sarah Joseph underscored the lasting impact of public agitations on societal consciousness during the valedictory session of ‘Sarah Joseph’s World’, an event held to celebrate the 60th anniversary of her literary journey. Speaking to an engaged audience at Kerala Sahitya Akademi hall here on Sunday, Ms. Joseph stressed that while not all protests achieve immediate victories, they play a crucial role in shaping public mindset and fostering social change.

Ms. Joseph passionately asserted that no public agitation goes in vain. “Each protest, each voice raised, influences the social psyche. It may not always make changes overnight, but it reshapes perceptions, fosters dialogues, and challenges the status quo.”

She recalled social movements that left indelible marks on societal consciousness. “The Silent Valley agitation wasn’t just about saving a forest; it awakened an environmental consciousness. The women’s rights movements sparked a societal reckoning on gender equality. And it was the relentless activism of K. Ajitha in Kozhikode that amplified voices advocating for the rights of sex workers.”

Ms. Joseph passionately defended feminism, describing it as “a beautiful politics rooted in the pursuit of equality.” She emphasised that feminism transcends gender, fighting for the rights of all marginalised groups. “It’s about envisioning a world without boundaries, without discrimination based on religion, caste, colour, or class.”

“Society has a crucial role as a corrective force against oppressive power centres. If we remain silent, we risk nurturing the very ideologies we oppose. Silence can be complicit. To challenge injustice is to keep democracy alive,” she said.

Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan, who inaugurated the valedictory, praised Sarah Joseph, highlighting that true politicians stand with the marginalised. “In that sense, Teacher is a greater politician,” he remarked, acknowledging her unwavering commitment to social justice.

He stressed the power of literature to inspire political awareness. The event resonated with the belief that writers must continually challenge and critique politicians, holding them accountable for societal progress.