Welcome to a story of courage, compassion, and empowerment, exemplified by Sister Gracy Thombrakudyil SCN. This remarkable woman has dedicated her life to serving migrants of all religions, guiding them from a place of oppression to a position of empowerment. Her journey has inspired countless others, including religious figures, lay individuals, and non-governmental organizations, to join the cause and support the marginalized community of migrants.
Meet Sister Gracy Thombrakudyil SCN
Sister Gracy, a Sister of Charity of Nazareth (SCN), traces her roots back to a town in Kerala, Southern India. In her early religious life, she worked with the Santhal Tribals in Jharkhand, focusing on education and empowerment. Little did she know that this experience would lay the foundation for her transformative work with migrants.
The Struggles of Migrants
In the late 1990s, a wave of migrants from Northern India descended upon the Southern state of Kerala in search of better opportunities. While they found solace in the educational and healthcare systems, they faced discrimination and exploitation from the local population. Living in cramped accommodations provided by their employers, migrants endured harsh working conditions, abusive treatment, and limited freedoms.
Employers imposed strict rules, monitoring the migrants’ every move, and subjecting them to unfair labor practices. Many migrants had their wages withheld, leaving them vulnerable and trapped in a cycle of oppression.
It was in this environment that Sister Gracy Thombrakudyil SCN stepped in, determined to make a difference.
Answering the Call
Hearing the cry of the economic migrants, Sister Gracy collaborated with the Jesuits and the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth to establish a ministry for their welfare. Armed with her deep understanding of tribal cultures and languages, she became a beacon of hope for the distressed migrants.
Since 2015, Sister Gracy has been actively involved in advocating for migrants’ rights, providing them with education on government schemes, access to healthcare, and a safe space to voice their grievances.
A Trailblazer for Change
Sister Gracy’s tireless efforts have brought about a paradigm shift in the community’s perception of migrants in Kerala. She has bridged the gap between locals and migrants, inspiring residents to volunteer and support the marginalized population.
Despite facing challenges and resistance, Sister Gracy continues to advocate for justice and empowerment for the migrants she serves.
A Motherly Figure
For the migrants in Kerala, Sister Gracy is not just a social worker but a mother and a source of hope. Her work embodies Pope Francis’s call to embrace the stories and faces of those seeking a better life across borders.
Join Sister Gracy Thombrakudyil SCN on her journey to empower and uplift migrants, as she continues to be a beacon of light in the district of Kozhikode.
Chinese (Simplified)
English
Filipino
French
German
Italian
Polish
Portuguese
Spanish