Seattle has made history by becoming the first city in the United States to ban discrimination based on caste, following a unanimous city council vote on Tuesday.
The legislation, which applies to employment, housing, public transport, and retail establishments, was introduced by Indian American council member Kshama Sawant, who hailed the move as a victory for the wider movement to eradicate caste discrimination in the US.
The Hindu caste system has long been the subject of controversy and activism, with its rigid hierarchy causing discrimination and violence against Dalits, those considered to be on the lowest rung of the caste ladder.
Activists argue that caste-based discrimination has followed South Asian diasporas to the US, with the tech sector in Seattle being cited as a particular hotspot for such behaviour.
While Dalit rights groups have welcomed the move, the Hindu American Foundation has expressed opposition, stating that the legislation singles out the South Asian community and violates the principle of non-discrimination.
»Seattle is first US city to ban caste discrimination«