Social Justice Blog: On A Closing Note

I never thought a class would impact me as much as Foundations for Social Justice did. From studying every subject from racism and sexism to homophobia and ageism, the wide array of topics we have covered this semester is quite incredible. I've never been in a class like this, where we discuss real issues and their pertinence to our own lives. From watching documentaries relating to classism and writing op-ed articles about hot button social issues, this class has helped me channel my passion and energy to create change. The social justic action projects we took on were indisputably life-altering learning experiences. More than anything else, I really appreciate the action aspect of this class. Part of the journey involves studying the issue but the other part involves taking steps to fuel change.

In retrospect, it often seems like there is no way that we can tackle all the problems in the world. Whether it is battered women, economically disadvantaged youth, ostracized transsexuals, or the neglected elderly, it seems like there are so many populations to serve and not enough resources. Many of the social inequalities that exist in America and the world as a whole are the result of deep-rooted, historical injustices. However, the important thing to keep in mind is that we can't lose hope. Yes, it may often feel like there isn't enough social capital to make a notable dent. However, if we start small and build up support systems over time, it's quite remarkable what we can do. A recent experience I had really got me thinking about what I can do to make a difference.

Soon after I presented my project regarding educational disparities in low-income neighborhoods, a friend invited me to participate in a career event she organized at Pearce Middle School. She needed guest speakers to discuss their college experiences and I was happy to assist her. I showed up at Pearce and proceeded to the cafeteria where I would meet with the students. As someone who has volunteered and mentored extensively at Reagan High School, the high school Pearce feeds into, I had a thorough understanding of the struggles facing students at Pearce. Known for its location in a crime-ridden neighborhood and disciplinary problems, Pearce is undoubtedly a rough school. When I walked into the school, I saw a multitude of police officers, students wearing assigned colors, and both genders situated on opposite sides of the cafeteria. I began speaking to different students at each table.

I tried to develop a rapport with each group of students in the short amount of time I had. I asked them about themselves and what questions they had about college. Some students were extremely engaged while others were more interested in discussing tangential topics. I did my best to encourage all students to pursue college and apply to UT. While it was difficult for me to accept that not all the students would take my advice to heart, I was comforted by the students that asked me about college life, my major, and their own career goals. I decided that even if I could reach out to maybe 20 out of the 100 students I interacted with, that would be a success in itself. Pearce, like many other economically disadvantaged schools in Austin, is plagued by poverty, crime, lack of family involvement, and the historical impacts of racism. Closing the achievement gap between low-income, often minority, students and upper-middle class, often White, students requires a long journey. However, I believe that it is doable. If we are able to mobilize enough people in the community, we can create gradual change.

I realize that I, alone, will not be able to tackle world hunger, racism, economic disparities, human trafficking, child abuse, domestic violence, etc on my own. If there is one thing I've learned in this class, strength is in numbers. In addition to pursuing a career in social work, I vow to do my part to organize people. Whether it is registering people to vote, encouraging others to write to legislators, or organizing protests, every person counts. Although racism is still alive and well, it is admirable the amount of awareness we have raised as a result of the activism elicited by the Trayvon Martin incident. While we still have a ways to go in terms of reproductive rights, the impact we have made as a result of recent nationwide protests and rallies is significant. The utilization of social media to expose dictator Joseph Kony is another example of strength in numbers. As empowered citizens of the world, we can collectively alleviate social inequalities. There's no doubt that what starts here, changes the world.