Dalit History Month: Massachusetts Joins List of Regions Observing Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Equality Day on April 14

Massachusetts- Governor Maura T. Healey of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has issued an official proclamation declaring April 14, as Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Equality Day. The proclamation honors Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar on his birth anniversary for his lifelong dedication to equality, social justice, human rights, and dignity.

The proclamation highlights that Massachusetts is home to a diverse population of races and ethnicities, including Native American, Black, Hispanic, White, South Asian, and many others. Born on April 14, 1891, in India, Dr. Ambedkar was the first highly educated and politically influential member of the oppressed classes. He championed the rights of marginalized sections throughout his life. Many of his ideas on equality and social justice were shaped during his education at Columbia University, which also awarded him an honorary degree.

Dr. Ambedkar is best remembered as the 'Father of the Indian Constitution', the longest written constitution in the world. He served as Independent India's first Minister of Law and Justice. As a lawyer, journalist, educationist, economist, lawmaker, and statesman, he made multidimensional contributions to promote equality, justice, dignity, and fraternity in society. He was posthumously awarded India's highest civilian honor, the Bharat Ratna.

The proclamation also recognizes Dr. Ambedkar's role in the revival of Buddhism in modern India, emphasizing principles of compassion and non-violence that foster liberty, equality, and camaraderie.

Governor Healey stated that Dr. Ambedkar Equality Day provides an opportunity to remember and honor his legacy, which continues to inspire people in Massachusetts and across the world.

Massachusetts has also actively observed Black History Month. Black History Month, celebrated annually in February in the US and Canada (October in the UK), honors the triumphs and contributions of African Americans.

Governor Healey joined the Advisory Council on Black Empowerment, artists, entrepreneurs, educators, innovators, and community leaders at the State House for a special celebration. “A snowstorm may have delayed our event, but nothing could stop us from celebrating Black History Month! Black history is American history and Massachusetts history. And knowing our history matters — because it helps us shape a better future,” the Governor had remarked.

In India, April 14 is observed as Ambedkar Jayanti (or Bhim Jayanti) and is a public holiday in more than 25 states and union territories.

• British Columbia, Canada, has proclaimed April 14 as Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Equality Day multiple times, including in 2021 and subsequent years.

• The City of Burnaby, Canada, proclaimed April 14 as Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Day of Equality starting from 2020.

• New York City, USA, Mayor Eric Adams proclaimed April 14, 2025, as Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar Day.

• Other U.S. states and cities, including New Jersey, Colorado, and New Hampshire, have also recognized April 14 as Equality Day or similar observances in honor of Dr. Ambedkar.

The United Nations has also hosted events on Ambedkar Jayanti for many years to commemorate his contributions to justice and equality. This proclamation reflects the growing global recognition of Dr. Ambedkar’s ideas, which remain a source of inspiration in the ongoing struggle for equality and social justice.