Equality and Social Justice

I was about five years old the first time I can remember my parents bringing me along somewhere to serve. They brought me to a “Turkey Walk” where walkers solicited sponsors to donate per mile walked around the high school track with the proceeds going to buy turkeys for those in need. I remember them explaining why they were walking around the track all day to benefit those who needed it. I remember many of those occasions where my siblings and I were taken all over town assisting our parents with service. Maybe they were trying to set a good example, or maybe they just couldn’t find a babysitter all those years!

Years later, when I was working at a church in Houston, we had a weekend of service through the church. I remember asking one of the younger kids why they had decided to come that day. He said simply; “I am here because this is what we do”. I love that answer.

One of the developmental assets for ensuring that our kids grow up happy, healthy and successful is “Equality and Social Justice”. The Search Institute defines this as the young person placing a “high value on promoting equality and reducing hunger and poverty.” This is one of the twenty Internal Assets, or values the young person has inside them. Some would argue that these internal values such as equality and social justice cannot be influenced by family members or members of the community. I disagree with this line of thought. We can develop this asset for our kids by serving as examples and involving them in activities which reinforce these values.

In terms of equality, it is important to study and have an open mind toward groups representing different interests such as NAACP, LULAC or the Junior League. There is a new book written by civil rights leader Wendell Baker entitled If Not Me, Who: What one man accomplished in his battle for equality” which would allow us to study one view of equality in Huntsville. We also need to remember that young people recognize who their parents and mentors associate with. Do they only see us associating with people exactly the same as us, or do we associate with a variety of people? We can make a difference by taking time to think and talk about equality and by promoting equality in our own lives.

For social justice, the best example comes through action, reinforced by talk about why we do what we do. There are numerous opportunities with established non-profit organizations in town to serve others and help reduce hunger and poverty. For example, the COME Center is always looking for volunteers to help sorting clothes or helping out in other ways. They are also beginning to look for funds for a new building, so families or groups could help with that process. The Good Shepherd Mission is also always looking for volunteers to help in the thrift store or food bank, or to help distribute food on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings. They are also currently conducting a food drive to prepare for the holidays.

These are two of many options to serve and to help reduce hunger and poverty in Huntsville, but there are many others as well. We can address equality, hunger and poverty through established organizations, or through our own businesses, churches, organizations and families. In order to develop this asset for our young people, we have to set a good example, and instill in them a sense that equality and social justice are “what we do”.

10.17.04