The Department of Government and Justice Studies at Appalachian State University defines social justice as “promoting a just society by challenging injustice and valuing diversity”. How can we, the self-proclaimed social justice activists, fight inequality? Protesting is one option, but you can also fight injustice by volunteering. Social justice is a complex issue, and you can learn a lot about it through volunteering for underprivileged groups, like people with disabilities, the homeless, or abused women. There are many organizations looking for people to seek social justice and fight oppression. Here’s a few to get you started:
Pivot Legal Society
Pivot Legal Society uses the law “to address the root causes of poverty and social exclusion”. Pivot Legal has an initiative called “rights not rescue” which focuses on their “commitment to the decriminalization of adult sex work”. The organization focuses on human rights and describes its volunteers and employees as “social justice champions”.
Union Gospel Mission
Union Gospel Mission (UGM) provides “meals, education, shelter, safe and affordable housing” and “drug and alcohol recovery programs”. Volunteering at UGM can help you to work with the homeless and those with substance abuse problems, groups which can sometimes overlap.
Qmunity
Qmunity is an organization that promises to help combat discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community. There are many volunteer opportunities that Qmunity provides, including a Friendly Visitors program through which one can spend time with LGBTQ+ elders, practicum placements, and positions to help with special events.
Dixon Transition Society
Another organization that helps marginalized groups is Dixon Transition Society. Dixon Transition Society “helps to reduce the impact of domestic violence by providing a safe haven for women and children”. Their website states that they “would not be able to carry out the work we do to support women and children fleeing domestic violence without the generosity of time and energy donated by volunteers.”
Passionate about social justice? Aiding marginalized groups can help to promote a just society by challenging inequalities. Volunteer your time to help others in need.
Beyond the Blog
- Involve yourself in social and environmental justice on campus through The Simon Fraser Public Interest Research Group.
- Learn more about The Committee to End Ableism.
