Red Saree Event in Jersey City Celebrates Survivor Courage and Resilience

The 8th Annual Red Saree Event, organized by Bolo Behen—a South Asian initiative of Hudson S.P.E.A.K.S. Against Sexual Violence—convened survivors, elected officials, and community leaders in Jersey City for a day focused on solidarity, empowerment, and cultural celebration.

The gathering, held at the Hudson County Community College’s Journal Square hall, was moderated by consultant Pradeep Pariyar Thapa and Sarita Parajuli. Dr. Bishnu Maya Pariyar, Director of Hudson S.P.E.A.K.S., welcomed the nearly 200 attendees, reminding them that each red saree symbolizes the courage, resilience, and strength of survivors.

“We wear red not just as a color of celebration, but as a color of resistance,” Dr. Pariyar stated. “Every woman here is proof that healing and empowerment can walk hand in hand.”

Keynote speaker Senator Raj Mukherji praised Hudson S.P.E.A.K.S. for its tireless work in supporting survivors and breaking the silence around domestic and sexual violence, particularly within immigrant communities.

“By gathering here, we are saying enough is enough. Together, we are breaking cycles of violence and reclaiming power,” Mukherji said. He also noted that state funding helped more than 900 victims over the past three fiscal years, calling the support not just financial aid, but “symbols of resilience and hope.” Senator Mukherji later received a commendation letter recognizing his commitment to public service.

Senator Angela V. McKnight encouraged attendees to support one another. “You have to stand up for yourself and for your fellow woman. You matter—never allow anyone to devalue your worth,” she affirmed.

Cheneme Williams, Program Lead at the New Jersey Department of Children and Families, emphasized the real-world impact of advocacy. “It’s one thing to see reports and paperwork. But being here, seeing the lives touched — this is what real community work looks like,” she remarked, commending Hudson S.P.E.A.K.S. for successfully translating policy into action.

The critical need for culturally responsive care within South Asian communities was highlighted by Susan Reyna, Outpatient Director for Behavioral Services at Hudson Regional Hospital.

“For too long, silence around sexual violence has been deeply rooted, and many in the South Asian community have been harmed,” Reyna explained. She stressed that the Bolo Behen initiative is creating culturally grounded spaces where survivors are not only heard but also believed and supported, concluding, “It’s about more than just services — it’s about healing through community.”

Participants, including survivors and advocates, traveled from across New Jersey, New York, and surrounding areas. Other speakers included Stacey Lea Flanagan (Director of Health and Human Services for Jersey City) and Rolando Lavarro (the first Asian American elected to the Jersey City Council), who emphasized the importance of empowering women and upholding their rights.

The event concluded with traditional dance performances, music, and South Asian cuisine, blending moments of culture and healing. Renowned Nepali actress Urmila Lamgaday was honored for her contributions to the arts, and Bishop Wanda Pollard was recognized for 18 years of dedicated volunteer service with Hudson S.P.E.A.K.S.

As red sarees shimmered throughout the room, the event sent a powerful message: survivors are seen, their voices matter, and communities rise when they rise together. Dr. Pariyar closed the evening with a final call for unity and empowerment: “Together, we stand for hope. Together, we rise for one another.”