Speaking Woman to Woman

“Namastey-namastey.” After beginning the morning with Yoga, we put together final preparations for our service project with Aastha Parivar. I sat on the bus for what I have come to realize will be longer than any estimated guess--Mumbai traffic is unlike any city I’ve yet seen—and wondered what we would be walking into today.

We knew we would be working and sharing with sex workers who were part of a community based organization that teaches safe sexual practices and prevention of HIV. We had also been given some guidance as to the subject matter they desired, but we knew little else.

From the beginning cultural differences were glaring--and our framework, re-worked. Though these women are sex workers, sex is not a topic that is discussed openly. There are even difficulties in translating some sexual terms into Hindi, because these activities are simply not part of the language. After meeting with a representative of Aastha Parivar we decided diagrams of basic female reproductive anatomy, and illustrations of the menstrual cycle would be the best route—speak objectively. We would figure out the rest as we settled in on site.

--I could not have walked away from our time with the women of Aastha Parivar feeling any more honored, humbled, and awakened.

From the moments we entered, 7 public health students and Dr. Vyas, there was nothing but warmth. I sat next to a few of our new friends who instantly grabbed my hand and had me sit so they could share their HIV pamphlets and educations materials. Their smiles and openness were infectious.

As a group we introduced ourselves, then each took a turn teaching about menstruation, feminine hygiene, menopause, and breast cancer. With the help of an Astha Parivar translator, Dr. Vyas, and Natasha, we were able to communicate simple facts and norms surrounding these health topics. Some was lost to translation, and it was somewhat difficult to understand exactly what was being inquired or posed in reaction to our lesson, but the women could not have been more receptive. We were even asked to deliver an impromptu lesson on the female condom (big thank you to Dr. Wood for our class session involving all types of female condoms!!).

The women of Aastha Parivar then showed us how they educate those in their communities about HIV transmission and safe sex practices. Most sex workers will continue soliciting even after contracting the virus. In this trade, it is normal for more money to be offered in exchange for sexual intercourse without protection.

How do you turn this down when you are the sole provider for your family?

How do you turn away when you are trying to provide a better life for your children?

EACH woman we met was married. EACH woman had a least one child. EACH woman traveled 90 minutes, one-way, for work--EACH day.

Exposure to violence and little hope of leaving their trade is their reality, and yet they sat across from us--they sat among us, with nothing but kindness.

I was in awe.

I am grateful for what little we were able to share with these brave women, and thankful for all they taught us. Our friends at Aastha Parivar will often be on my mind.