Social justice work is a recognition of the socio-political history that shapes power, privilege, oppression. It is also a commitment to policies, practices, and behaviors that strive for equitable opportunities and outcomes for all. Social justice is often used as a macro-level term for movements concerning the promotion of equity, diversity, and inclusion.
A term coined by Kimberlé Crenshaw in 1989, intersectionality refers to a framework for understanding the way in which a person's identity or individual characteristics---race, gender, class, ability, etc.---intersect and overlap. The culmination of those identities impact how we interact with the world and shape the myriad of ways we may be privileged or discriminated against. Because of our unique intersections, social justice work can take many forms and overlap in a variety of ways.
Below, you will find a selection of popular resources that cover just some of the many topics that relate to social justice and equity work. Some of these topics are highlighted below. As you explore these topics, don't forget the importance of identifying the interlocking systems of oppression and exploitation that fuel continued inequity.
Anti-Racism |
Accessibility |
LGBTQ+ Rights |
Labor and Class |
Climate Justice |
Gender Equality |
Please note: This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of popular texts. Additionally, for items related to addressing these topics within the classroom, please see the "Teach" section of this guide. If you wish to learn more or would like assistance finding additional materials about these subjects, please ask a librarian.
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This short NPR report from 2015 begins delving into racial trauma (PTSD caused by racism). Reporter Cheryl Corley touches upon the legacies of institutionalized racism, microaggressions, and other subtle, persistent forms of discrimination to demonstrate their deleterious impact upon Black Americans. Using sound bites from experts across the country, the report also briefly examines symptoms of racial trauma and calls out the "American Psychiatric Association's manual of mental health disorders" for only "recogniz[ing] racism as trauma . . . when an individual meets certain criteria." A transcript can be found at the link.
A selection of museums, archives, and special collections that are ideal for browsing.