Of climate change, yoga and palaces

Jordyn Arndt ’11 is among a group of 19 St. Kate’s students on a Global Search for Justice j-term course in India with Deep Shikha, interim dean of the School of Business and Leadership and Economics Professor, and Robert Grunst, professor of English.

Jan. 15

We have completed our second week of the Global for Justice (GSJ) course is women, work, health, and the environment in India. During our frequent classes we have continued our discussions of oppression, gender, culture, and globalization.

On Tuesday we participated in the Institute for Rural Research and Development (IRRAD) sixth annual conference about the eradication of poverty and mitigation of climate change in India.

We attended presentations by representatives from non-governmental organizations (NGOs) throughout India addressing issues related to education, health, gender equality, small business development, water security, and agricultural practices.

While the majority of the conference participants were from India, we were in the company of a small group of graduate students from the University of Iowa. The conference was both informative and inspiring.

At the end of the conference, three St. Kate’s students discussed their experiences in India and what they gained from the conference. Their common theme was a refreshed commitment to combating social injustices wherever they may occur.

On Wednesday we made the six hour commute from Dehli to Jaipur and the Sunrise Naturopathy Health Resort.

We arose early the next morning to depart for Amber Palace. In order to reach the palace, situated on a high hill, we rode elephants. The tour of the Amber Palace provided us with an introduction to the extravagant lifestyles and reign of the maharajas.

On Friday we visited Jaipur City Palace and Observatory. Within the palace and observatory, we visited extraordinary galleries containing artwork, armory, textiles, and sun dials from the maharajas.

Our time in India is quickly coming to an end. We will continue processing our experiences in India, engaging in yoga sessions, and visiting sites of historical & cultural significance. We have begun discussing ideas for our GSJ India presentation in February. All students, faculty, staff, friends, and family members are encouraged to attend the GSJ India presentation on February 15th.

Jordyn Arndt