Justice and social change work is lifelong work that occurs in disparate and often overlapping ways. The Institute for Justice and Social Change has chosen to structure its work in four broad areas:
education, research, activism, and partnerships.
Education
Change requires learning. The Institute for Justice and Social Change facilitates learning in formal and informal ways by drawing upon the resources of Southern as well as the collaborative contributions of partners.
Whether through Southern’s social justice course offerings; its new Social Justice minor; or through the various workshops, convenings, and conferences held on campus or virtually with partners around the world; the Institute supports curiosity and learning to bring us closer to one another to advance anti-racism, anti-oppression, and other crucial justice issues. Credit, Professional Development CEUs, and non-credit/enrichment opportunities are available.
Research
Change requires thinking and doing in new ways. The Institute for Justice and Social Change is honored to support many interdisciplinary, inter-organizational, and inter-institutional affiliates doing substantive research to make the world healthier and more equitable.
Our affiliates are comprised of Southern faculty, staff, students, alumni, and external partners who are engaged in a wide range of justice-oriented research and creative activity aimed at social change.
Activism
Change requires engaged action. The Institute for Justice and Social Change seeks to catalyze individual and social change through efforts such as education, research, policy analysis and advocacy, activism, healing circles and self-care, non-violent and peace actions, restorative practice, and socially-conscious evaluation.
The activism of the Institute, its affiliates, and its partners is substantial and impactful because it is undertaken by diverse individuals committed to [this sentence isn't complete]
Partnerships
Change requires collaboration. The Institute for Justice and Social Change is founded on, and committed to, productive partnerships that support explicitly anti-racist and anti-oppression education, research, and activism. As a collaborative hub, umbrella, and catalyst for the work, we aim to connect and bridge individuals, groups, and organizations to dismantle racist and oppressive structures of all kind. Our collaborations begin with Southern students, faculty, staff, and alumni, but reach to individuals, organizations, and institutions locally, nationally, and internationally.
