Dr. Suraj Yengde
Harvard & Oxford Scholar
Harvard University
Dr. Suraj Yengde, an esteemed scholar and Harvard & Oxford Scholar, is renowned for his extensive work in human rights law. Currently a W.E.B. Du Bois Fellow at Harvard University, he has previously served as a Senior Fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School and contributed to the Initiative for Institutional Anti-Racism and Accountability (IARA). Additionally, he is pursuing a DPhil at the University of Oxford's Faculty of History. Having studied across four continents, Dr. Yengde has the distinctive honor of being India's first Dalit Ph.D. holder from the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg.
Hailing from Nanded, India, Dr. Yengde is a qualified International Human Rights attorney in both India and the UK. His scholarly endeavors predominantly focus on caste issues, earning him global recognition for his pioneering work in developing a critical theory of Dalit and Black Studies. His influential writings, such as the article "Dalit in Black America," delve into "sibling solidarity" and examine the intersectionality of race and caste. His collaborative efforts with philosopher Cornel West have significantly contributed to fostering unity between African Americans and Dalits, gaining international acclaim.
An accomplished author and columnist, Dr. Yengde has contributed over 150 academic and non-academic articles and co-edited an award-winning anthology with Dr. Anand Teltumbde. His critically acclaimed book "Caste Matters" was heralded as the "Best Non-fiction Book of the Decade" by The Hindu. Besides his extensive bibliography, he contributes a globally unique caste-centric column to The Indian Express. Dr. Yengde is not only a dedicated academic but also a fervent activist, building global solidarities among marginalized communities and earning numerous awards for his dedication to social justice. Renowned as a speaker and consultant, he imparts his knowledge on casteism, racism, diversity, and social justice, providing valuable insights and fostering understanding.