Journal #1 Social Justice

 
In general, all journal entries for 157SL must be:

A minimum of 550 words and a maximum of 750 words. Calculate and list your word count at the top of the page. Do not include the prompt in your word count.
Complete. Your journal entry must sufficiently address the prompt and/or the assignment requirements. It should present a sufficiently developed argument using the required resources.
Clear. You should present an argument that logically progresses from one point to the next. Your claims should be well supported with good/strong evidence from proper sources.
Correct. Your journal entry should be accurate. It should be free of errors, whether in reasoning, grammar, typography, etc.
Compelling. To receive a grade of “excellent,” your journal entry should go beyond simply “checking off the boxes” to present arguments, insights, and/or reflections that are thought-provoking and reflective. Ideally you should demonstrate a deep and/or novel understanding of the material.

This week’s prompt on Social Justice, Politics & Activism is:
As noted in an earlier 157SL class session, social justice can be defined as:

Fair distribution of wealth, opportunities and privileges within a society; 
Fair and equal treatment irrespective of wealth, race, class, gender, ethnicity, religion etc. and 
Ensuring access and opportunity for all, especially those in greatest need,

1. With this definition in mind, describe an example of a LACK or ABSENCE of social justice that you have observed either at your service site, in your community, in your life, or in the news. Explain how this instance constitutes a lack/absence of social justice. What circumstances led to this situation? What practical steps could be taken to restore social justice in this situation?
2. Describe a concrete example (whether from personal experience, observations, or history) in which activism has been successfully employed to bring about social justice. Why do you think activism was successful in this instance?