Part 317. Campaigning for social justice.

Charity is commendable; everyone should be charitable. But justice aims to create a social order in which, if individuals choose not to be charitable, people still don't go hungry, unschooled, or sick without care. Charity depends on the vicissitudes of whim and personal wealth; justice depends on commitment instead of circumstance. Faith-based charity provides crumbs from the table; faith-based justice offers a place at the table.

Bill Moyers.

Social justice demands we deal with the causes of injustice instead of simply bandaging the symptoms. Social justice requires systemic change. As followers of Jesus it is incumbent on us to support faith-based and secular organisations campaigning for social justice. 

I draw your attention to the websites of four organisations engaged in campaigning.

The Big Issue.

Campaigns on housing, homelessness and poverty and allied issues. Regularly posts on Facebook.

Shelter.

Campaigns on housing related issues. Published: Brick by Brick: A Plan to Deliver the Social Homes We Need. (11.07.2024)

Christians Against Poverty UK

Published: Deficit Budgets: the cost to stay alive.(September 2024).  Also a number of supporting documents.

Church Action on Poverty.

I recommend a long report: How do we build each other's dignity, agency and power together as a society? (September 2024)