Social Justice Social Justice is reached when every person has what they need to live with dignity. The principle of social justice, according to Catholic social teaching, requires that a Christian act in an organized manner with others to hold social institutions accountable-whether government or private- for the common good.
In this quote, Catholic Bishop Dom Helder Camara expresses the notion that at some point we must begin to reflect upon the poverty and injustice around us and question what has caused it. These questions lead us to the issues of social justice. Until one analyzes the realities and causes of the injustice he or she is working with, that individual will never effectively be able to seek to end it. In working and living in community with our Los Embajadores hosts, we must listen to and observe the experiences of those closest to the problem. Then, we must look at the context. What’s the history and what are the root causes? Are there political and/or economic forces involved? We must take this information and examine it in light of biblical values and Christian teaching and ask “what action might successfully make this situation more just? The attempt to end the injustice is the second key element - structural change. Structural change occurs through community education, legislative advocacy, and working with organizations that are changing the structures that promote injustice. As citizens of the United States and Canada, it is helpful to keep in mind the impact that our own national policies have on worldwide social justice issues. A positive service experience inspires and empowers us to do further work for justice. We can only place so many bandages on a wound before questioning what is causing the bleeding. I learned that the stereotypes I had held about Mexico and its people were unfounded. The people here are just the same as people back home, and they were so loving and accepting. I also realized how luxurious my life back home is, and I should be thankful. |