The Effects of Social Justice on Young Minds
A Nod to the Impact of Societal Activism
A quote by Bryan Stevenson reads, “We are all implicated when we allow other people to be mistreated. An absence of compassion can corrupt the decency of a community, a state, a nation.” Social justice, the act of fighting against a collective injustice, is just one thread in the weave that connects us all as people. Living through my adolescence in an era where technology is so prominent has made me aware of just how much inequity persists in our world. In my eyes, social justice is the act of giving a voice to those who constantly go unheard. This process is important nowadays, considering how easy it is to be overlooked by people of higher power.
With the power structures that take place in governments globally, it is often difficult to vocalize struggles as an ordinary citizen. Circumstances like these give me a deep appreciation for activists, politicians, philanthropists, and all people who actively fight for change in our world. In our society, there seems to be a failure to understand that true civil justice is dependent on helping one another. A single additional voice or helping hand could create a larger impact than one might imagine. This idea explains why activists function as a megaphone, amplifying the voices of those in need.
Furthermore, growing up during the presidency of Barack Obama considerably influenced my views about social justice. His strong push toward racial progress in our country was one of the first times I felt as if my voice had been heard. That feeling was irreplaceable, and it allowed me to truly value the importance of fighting for civil rights. As an African American, there have been many times in my life where I have felt as if my voice had been suppressed or silenced. Fortunately, the powerful words of activists such as Ella Baker or Indya Moore have provided a platform for me and other young women of color nationwide. Hearing their words is like finally seeing light at the end of a dark tunnel.
In addition, reading the memoir Farewell to Manzanar has strengthened my value towards social justice. Learning about the adversities that Jeanne Wakatsuki faced in her early life allowed me to think from a new perspective. This book allowed me to see the effects of a lack of social justice and how it can impact a community. This text and its purpose resonate with me, further establishing my belief that advocating for the civil rights of all is an essential part of our world.
Ultimately, social justice to me means giving a voice to those whose struggles go unaddressed. As human beings, the best idea to help upkeep justice in our society is to provide empathy and a listening ear to those in need. If we do not listen, we cannot understand, and without understanding, our society will never move forward. As a highschool student, I am graced with the opportunity to connect with so many people in my day-to-day life. Advocating and supporting those peers on a daily basis is a small but significant way I can help to make the world a better place.
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This metaphor, “Social justice, the act of fighting against a collective injustice, is just one thread in the weave that connects us all as people” really helps the reader understand what social justice is to the writer, something that connects people
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Barrack Obama, a leader of many, has helped countless people regardless of race. His push towards racial progress is expected but that’s what leads him to be a more meaningful president. Not only that, but he has also provided other benefits towards Americans such as Obamacare.
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Throughout the essay, figurative language is used to further explain some of the points used. It also talks about personal experience and their perspective on social justice. The use of figurative language makes the essay flow really well as it gives a better understanding of the author’s point
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Reading through the writing I realized the importance of using your voice to be heard. Using your voice implements acting against injustice so, that when you see something that isn’t right like discrimination you express your dissatisfaction towards injustice.
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Your experiences also give it a personal touch which further explains your points effectively.
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