I was recently accepted to join AFLV (Association of Fraternity Leadership Values) this winter for their El Salvador immersion trip. I was required to write an essay. The prompt really made me think. What is social justice and how does it effect our society?
I believe that social justice stands for equality of human rights and the unity of the people in order to recognize the dignity of every human being. Our society is never constant. It is ever changing and the smallest things can make the biggest difference.
Difference matters.
Whether it’s a man with the courage to continue west, in spite of conventional wisdom that he was nearing the edge of the world; or an equally courageous woman who defied social norms and refused to give up her seat, or a man who preached the strength of nonviolent resistance; or a 21st century entertainer who’s song “Born this way,” topped the charts for 3 weeks straight, they all did little things that created massive movements. They were different.
Our society is ever changing and so is social justice. Our culture believes in democracy and that the people have a voice. Mohandas Gandhi said, “A nation's culture resides in the hearts and in the soul of its people.” I believe that because our people have a voice, we have the power to make that change and be that difference.
As a nation that values human rights and the dignity of every human being our nation has the privilege to stand up against injustice in our country and abroad. We are one nation, under God, indivisible and we stand for liberty and justice for all.
After taking the class Social Identity, my eyes were opened to the fact that there is still much hate and injustice in our country as well as abroad. We studied many hate and oppressed groups and talked about how we contribute to the continuation of hate and stereotypes by the way we act, treat others or even something as simple as telling jokes about oppressed groups.
The most important thing that I took away from this class was the fact that difference matters. If I lead by example, if I do not stick to the status quo, then others will notice. They might even follow. I might not see the change, but it will eventually come. Again, Mohandas Gandhi said, “Be the difference you wish to see in the world” and I truly agree with him. It might be outrageous, but I will be courageous and maybe something extraordinary will happen.
True social justice begins with me and spreads to you. It is the unity of the people that recognizes the value and dignity of every human being.
What does this have to do with my blog? Well, it is my turn to serve. Also, I have been asked to start a fundraising campaign for my trip. This is were I get to put my skills to the test, gain new skills and immerse myself in a new culture and experience.
I would love your support! And I will keep you updated on my trip!
