It's been a while since I've put down some of my really frank views on any subject.
Yesterday night, I was in an online meeting, listening to one of our noted peace activists, and there I heard him speak of Reverend Father Jerome D'Souza, one of the framers of our Indian constitution.
My reaction was "what the *&%#@?"
I have studied in Catholic schools and colleges, and taught in some as well. Why the dickens do we not know of Fr Jerome D'Souza? Why haven't I been able to flaunt him alongside Ambedkar and the other chaps? Why have we know information about him in our textbooks?
So, for those of you interested people, here is a very brief and sketchy piece, which you teachers and others can hopefully use in your lessons.
Jerome D'Souza: Patriot and Diplomat
Admired by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Fr. D'Souza's influence extended beyond politics, into diplomacy and international relations, leaving an indelible mark on the our modern history.
Born on August 6, 1897, in Mangalore, Fr. D'Souza joined the Society of Jesus in 1921 and was ordained a priest in 1931. His academic brilliance shone through early in his career, earning him a reputation as an erudite scholar. This intellectual prowess made him an invaluable asset to the Indian National Congress, particularly during the crucial period leading up to India's independence.
Fr. D'Souza's entry into the Constituent Assembly in 1946 marked the beginning of his direct involvement in the nation-building process. He was one of the few non-Hindus in the assembly, representing the interests of minorities and advocating for a secular state. His contributions were marked by a deep commitment to social justice, equality, and religious harmony.
Voice of Reason and Compassion
In the assembly, Fr. D'Souza was a voice of reason and compassion. He emphasized the need for a constitution that safeguarded the rights of all citizens, irrespective of their religious or social backgrounds. His speeches often reflected a profound understanding of India's diverse cultural fabric and the necessity of unity in diversity. His ability to articulate complex ideas with clarity and conviction earned him the respect of his peers, including Pandit Nehru.
Pandit Nehru's admiration for Fr. D'Souza was well-known. The two shared a mutual respect that transcended their religious and ideological differences. Nehru valued Fr. D'Souza's insights and often sought his counsel on matters of national importance. This camaraderie was not merely a testament to Fr. D'Souza's intellectual acumen but also to his character and integrity.
Fr. D'Souza's role extended beyond the Constituent Assembly. Recognizing his diplomatic skills and deep understanding of international affairs, the Indian government appointed him as a delegate to the United Nations. As a diplomat, Fr. D'Souza represented India with distinction, advocating for peace, justice, and cooperation on the global stage.
Role in the UN
At the United Nations, Fr. D'Souza's contributions were multifaceted. He participated in numerous debates and discussions, bringing India's perspectives to the forefront of international discourse. His interventions were marked by a commitment to the principles of the UN Charter, emphasizing human rights, decolonization, and international solidarity.
One of Fr. D'Souza's notable achievements at the UN was his involvement in the discussions on decolonization. He passionately argued for the rights of colonized nations to self-determination and independence. His eloquence and moral authority lent weight to India's position, contributing to the broader movement for decolonization that swept through Asia and Africa in the mid-20th century.
Fr. D'Souza's work at the UN was not limited to political matters. He also focused on social and economic issues, advocating for policies that promoted global development and poverty alleviation. His holistic approach to diplomacy underscored the interconnectedness of peace, justice, and development.
Throughout his career, Fr. D'Souza remained deeply committed to the Jesuit principles of education, social justice, and service to others. He continued to be actively involved in educational initiatives, recognizing the transformative power of education in building a just and equitable society. His legacy in this field is reflected in the numerous institutions that continue to uphold these values.
Jesuit Fr. Jerome D'Souza SJ was a pioneering patriot whose contributions to India's constitution, diplomacy, and international relations were profound.His intellect, integrity, and compassion left an indelible mark on India's history.
