With recent global changes, many people may be feeling uncertain and uneasy about what the future holds. Now it’s more important than ever to continue Canada's legacy in promoting social justice. You might be wondering “what can I do?”

Although you may be feeling hopeless, there are in fact many ways that you can improve both your community and the world at large! Here are six ways you can promote social justice locally, and globally. 

Locally

1.–Volunteer

You can volunteer with local non-profit organizations like a local food bank or groups who help newcomers learn English. These activities let you build connections with people you otherwise might not interact with. Volunteering allows you to connect with people who are different to you, gaining valuable insight into the challenges facing your community. By volunteering, you actively contribute to the wellbeing of your community. It also helps expose you to new cultures, experiences, and perspectives! 

2.–Participate in Your Community 

Although this may sound simple, it's a great way to familiarize yourself with the issues that your neighbours may face. Some ways to participate in your community are by shopping locally and attending community events!

Community events like concerts in the park or clean-the-streets days foster a sense of belonging and inclusion. They help everyone involved to feel they are a valued member of society! They also support a variety of diverse people, who may usually be overlooked and marginalized, to feel included and actively empowered to participate in helping improve their own neighbourhood, town, or city. 

3.–Engage in Civic Activities

Civic engagement is integral because it aids in creating a more just and equitable society. It also allows you to have a voice in shaping the future! When you're involved in local politics, you help hold elected officials accountable as well as influence policy changes that will affect your everyday life. For example, if your town wants to let an oil company drill on a beloved wildlife reserve, you might want to attend the open house and say something! Or talk to your local representative.

This is why it's important to vote even in small local elections. Your involvement can help improve both your community and yourself. Taking the time to research your own local politics and being informed on what issues need to be addressed can help you develop a sense of purpose, along with helping in battling against issues like houselessness, climate change, food insecurity, as well as race and gender equality!

Globally

4.–Think about the products you buy

One of the best ways to battle injustice is with your wallet. It’s no secret that many products in our everyday life are made through unethical means in countries around the world. Whether it’s coffee, makeup, or clothes, many of these products utilize unfair labour practices, or are extremely environmentally damaging. This is why buying fair trade products is so important! You can do this by looking for the official “Fair trade” mark on product packaging to ensure ethical sourcing! Some great fair trade brands include Ben & Jerry's ice cream, Level Ground Coffee, and Patagonia! For more recommendations check out our 3 items to purge for social justice list! 

Hambisa (right) and his wife show off their bountiful coffee crop in Ethiopia.

5.– See something? Say something!

Your voice matters. One of the most effective ways to promote equality is by speaking up against injustice. Don't hesitate to call out un-inclusive language or behaviour, whether in person or online.You can also support artists or politicians that use their talent and platform to advance social issues. By sharing their work you’re able to help them reach wider audiences and build awareness! Additionally, supporting businesses that prioritize environmental responsibility and fair working conditions can drive positive change.By praising and endorsing these companies, you encourage others to follow suit, creating a ripple effect that promotes ethical and sustainable practices

6.–Be compassionate

Putting yourself into someone else’s shoes and seeing the world through their perspective is integral to creating compassionate empathy. It could be considered the foundation of social justice. When we truly understand the struggles of others, we feel driven to take meaningful action to create change.

Many grassroots movements are rooted in the belief that recognizing suffering is not enough—action must be taken to make a difference.

Promote Social Justice today!