Honoring Sanitation Workers: Voices Behind Global Garbage Man Day
Recognizing the Unsung Heroes of Sanitation
Every morning, while many of us are still asleep or rushing through our routines, a dedicated group of individuals rises before dawn to clean the spaces we inhabit, work, and travel through. These sanitation workers are often the first to start their day and the last to receive acknowledgment for their efforts. On June 17, we celebrate Global Garbage Man Day, a time to honor the unwavering commitment and strength of these essential workers who perform some of the most vital yet underappreciated roles in our society.
This year, instead of focusing solely on statistics, we chose to hear the personal stories of those who engage in this crucial work daily. We spoke with Sunita Devi, a sanitation worker at a local office, Manju Kumari, a 65-year-old garbage collector in Greater Noida West, and Raghu, a trash collector serving an entire residential area. Their narratives reflect a profound resilience and pride in their labor.
Sunita Devi greets everyone at her workplace with a warm smile while juggling multiple cleaning tasks. She shares, “People treat me with respect here, and even the younger staff lend a hand.” She believes that cleanliness is a collective responsibility, stating, “When people appreciate my work, it makes me feel valued. A clean environment brings happiness to everyone, including me.” Sunita takes pride in her job, which enables her to support her children's education. Although she sometimes faces negativity, the positive feedback she receives helps her cope.
On the streets of Cherry County, we met Manju Kumari, who, at 65, continues to energetically collect garbage from door to door. “An idle mind is the devil’s workshop,” she says with a smile. “I prefer to stay active rather than feel useless at home.” Her motivation stems from a desire for independence. “I want to be self-sufficient,” she asserts. Manju emphasizes the importance of her role, noting, “If we don’t show up, people complain, which highlights how crucial our work is.” She longs for simple gestures of appreciation, like a glass of water on a hot day or a heartfelt thank you.
Raghu, who navigates his cart through an entire neighborhood daily, quietly maintains order in the community. “People often overlook us,” he remarks, “but they would quickly notice if we didn’t come.” He takes pride in his work but dreams of a better future for his children. “I want them to hold pens, not brooms.” Despite facing disrespect at times, he finds motivation in small acts of kindness, such as a smile or a friendly greeting.
These individuals are not just workers; they are the backbone of our sanitation system. Their experiences shared on Global Garbage Man Day remind us of the faces behind the trash bins and mops. They deserve not only our gratitude but also our respect, attention, and kindness every single day.