Bangladesh Archdiocese Honors Indigenous Midwives on International Indigenous Peoples’ Day

The Catholic Archdiocese of Chattogram honored Indigenous midwives for their contribution to protecting life and promoting community well-being as it marked the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples on August 9.

The observance, held under the theme “Honoring Indigenous Midwives: Their Contribution to the Protection of Life and Well-being,” brought together Indigenous Catholic communities for Holy Mass, prayer, cultural programs, and awareness activities in Bandarban, Bolipara, and Khagrachari in the Chittagong Hill Tracts of southeastern Bangladesh.

The celebrations highlighted the important role of Indigenous midwives while also affirming the dignity, cultural identity, traditions, and rights of Indigenous communities.

In Bandarban Parish, Fr. Sudhir Das, CSC, parish priest, presided over a special Holy Mass offered for the peace, health, and well-being of Indigenous peoples. A cultural program followed, featuring traditional songs and dances performed by members of the Tripura community.

Bolipara Parish organized Holy Mass, an awareness rally, and a cultural program focusing on the rights, dignity, cultures, and traditions of Indigenous peoples. A wall magazine titled Ami Adibasi, Ami Gorbito (“I am Indigenous, I am proud”) was also unveiled to celebrate Indigenous identity and dignity.

In Khagrachari Parish, Fr. Leonard Rebeiro, parish priest, celebrated Holy Mass, followed by an awareness and discussion session on the rights, dignity, security, and cultural preservation of Indigenous communities.

Mr. Chayan Hubert Rebeiro, acting regional director of Caritas Chattogram Region, attended the Khagrachari program as a special guest and emphasized the need for greater cooperation and awareness to support Indigenous communities.

The celebrations reflected the Church's solidarity with Indigenous peoples and its recognition of their contribution to community life. Through prayer, cultural expression, and awareness-building, the Chattogram Archdiocese sought to strengthen respect for Indigenous identity and traditions while encouraging greater attention to their well-being and dignity.