Social Justice

      Social justice only occurs when everyone has equal rights.  Some groups have more advantages or privileges than others which leads to inequality.  Many people find it hard to admit that they are privileged.  They feel that their families have worked hard to be where they are today and didn't receive any privileged treatment.  Often they view others as products of families who didn't work as hard or didn't make the right decisions which may have led to their situation.

     Even though we profess that everyone is treated equally by the traditions of our society and the laws of our country, a closer look will show how the white race and the male gender have been allocated more benefits than other races and women of every race; therefore, these groups are privileged.  The original US Constitution, written by white males, did not consider African-Americans, Native Americans, or women in general.  These groups have had to fight are are still fighting for equal rights and opportunities. 

     Our history, written primarily by white males, emphasized their lives and accomplishments while often omitting the contributions of others.  Military endeavors prevailed.  Since men were allowed more education and time to pursue personal development, their new ideas and inventions were recorded.  This was made possible by the subservient lives of females, wives, and slaves. Those in power increased their wealth while other groups remained financially dependent.

     Those with white skin have had advantages and privileges which placed them in their situations. Hard work was not the only factor.  Plus males in general have had more power since civilization began because women had very little.  Other groups like LGBTQ have also had to fight for their rights.

     We can't avoid noticing race and gender that will often bring up past stereotypes and prejudices.  These differences should not affect our desire that all are treated equally.  Social justice demands that.  Things have gotten better over the past decades, but much improvement is still needed.  Please recognize when you are privileged and promote social justice.