Social Justice? We all say that we want social justice and that we cannot accept the uneven distribution of changes in the world. But there is so much more to consider when talking about social justice. This blog article will give an overview of causes, consequences, and examples that will help your understanding of our current social injustice.
Easily explained the concept of social justice means an even distribution of wealth, opportunities, and privileges. Social injustice on the other hand refers to the problem that a person is discriminated against and has fewer chances in life because of its gender, ethnic belonging, age, religion, or disability. If you are a healthy, white CIS male you have already a lot of privileges in comparison to others. You might read this and think, well if this is our current state of social justice, our world is very far away from achieving a fair environment for everyone. And yes, you are right. That’s why the World Day of Social Justice is celebrated annually on February 20th.
Even before the Covid19 crisis, there was a big gap in our society, showing the uneven distribution of chances and resources for women, migrant workers, disabled persons, children, and different ethnic groups. But the pandemic has made those gaps bigger and more visible for society.
Even in rich countries, like Germany, kids were falling behind in school, because they did not have the facilities to follow online education. Students had to interrupt their studies because they lost their side job and did not get governmental support. Small enterprises went bankrupt because they had to follow strict covid measures and were not eligible for a loan.
Still, in the 21st century, the male often gets hired over women even though they have the same competencies, just because the risk the women getting pregnant and being away from the job, is too high for many companies. When we have a look at entrepreneurs and small businesses it is striking that only 31% are owned by women. Although this number is increasing frequently there is still a lot of opportunities to grow.
Black people get arrested and even shot in the USA, because of their skin color. George Floyd and Breonna Taylor are just two of many shocking examples of police brutality against black people.
In many countries, women are not allowed to wear a hijab while pursuing their careers as policewomen or teachers. They have to decide between their religion and their profession.
Social injustice makes it harder for the affected groups to get hired, have access to education, a loan, or report a crime because they are often seen as less worthy by big parts of the society and the structural injustice just makes it impossible for them to get out.
Today and any other day, be aware of your privilege and try to support those you don’t. Join demonstrations, sign petitions, and speak up for those who do not have the power to do it themselves.
Comments