Field Notes
When You Educate a Woman, You Educate Her Family
By investing in education, Anchal artisans are systematically ending the once inevitable cycle of intergenerational prostitution. They are putting an end to the stigma and entrenched poverty that their families have faced for centuries. It's a big deal.
“Community” is Not Enough
On the first day of workshops it didn’t feel like I was walking into an office at all, but instead into a home with a large, welcoming family that was quick to include me.
Rotate and Repeat
Design training is a critical component of Anchal's program. This year we focused our curriculum on the possibilities of pattern.
March 8th is Not Just One Day
Awareness is out and action is in. This International Women’s Day the Executive Director of UN women urged countries to step it up for gender equality & ensure that the world is 50/50 by 2030.
Anchal Celebrates Holi
This year we got to spend the spectacular Holi holiday with Anchal artisans, who of course couldn't wait to douse Colleen & I in an array of bright colors. This celebration of color was followed more importantly by endless dancing! There is no where we'd rather spend it.
The Epicenter for All Your Senses
The Indian marketplace immediately awakens all of your senses. It is the epicenter for everything colorful, loud, pungent & chaotic. The streets are filled with cars, buses, motorcycles, elephants & camels all fighting for a parking space or honking for the right of way.
Gone in a Blink - Colleen Reflects on 2014
Anchal will officially turn 5 years old in 2015 and the impact is more visible than ever before.
Anchal Insider: Monthly Education Workshops
\This year we received a generous grant from the Circle of Sisterhood, a non-profit organization that raises money to remove barriers and provide educational opportunities for women & girls around the world.
Dyescape & the Importance of Local Impact
DyeScape, the Lots of Possibility Winner, is already constructing a demonstration garden in the Portland neighborhood of Jefferson County. Its implementation will reinforce Anchal Project’s Didi Connection—a global sisterhood passionate about making a difference for women across continents and seas.
dyeScape - Sustainable Textile Culture, Part Two
dyeScape can begin to offset the damages of the industrialized textile system by transforming long neglected vacant lots into beautiful productive landscapes, regenerating lasting textiles systems and the communities around the world.
dyeScape - Anchal's Newest Project, Part one
dyeScape? .... Yes, dyeScape, Anchal's newest project! Throughout the week, we at Anchal will be presenting a mini-series on dyeScape. From a look at what the project is to addressing the current textile culture and finally a look at what this project means for the future, in Louisville, other cities & for Anchal's artisans.
Anchal Joins the Fair Trade Federation!
We are pleased to announce that Anchal Project has been accepted into the Fair Trade Federation ! The Fair Trade Federation (FTF) is a Washington, D.C.-based non-profit promoting North American businesses fully committed to the principles of fair trade.