Dr. Ambedkar (1891-1956) was the architect of independent India's constitution, a champion for human and civil rights, a renowned scholar, and the restorer of Buddhism in India. Born a member of the Dalit (formerly untouchable) community, Ambedkar overcame prejudice and systemic barriers to obtain a doctorate, and eventually an honorary doctorate for his accomplishments as a social reformer. The Ambedkar association is a consciousness-raising organization for the Dalit community.
Through the SFU Institute for the Humanities, the University and the Library have been honoured with the placing of a bust of Dr. BR Ambedkar in the 3rd floor lounge area of the WAC Bennett Library. SFU joins Columbia University and the London School of Economics to be honoured in this way.