Below is the Social Justice and Social Policy Program’s statement of solidarity with #FordHall2015. Though the occupation has ended, with success, we feel it is important to share this nonetheless.
Statement of solidarity with #FordHall2015
The Program in Social Justice and Social Policy (SJSP) stands in solidarity with the students who peacefully occupy the office of the University President. The mission of SJSP is to develop effective social policies and encourage students to advocate for change. SJSP seeks to teach students to
“Rigorously engage with core questions of liberty, equality, and justice
Interrogate the historical, structural, and cultural contexts that shape the dynamics of discrimination and inequality in a range of institutions
Clearly communicate theories, analyses, and policy solutions, both orally and in writing
Apply generalized principles to a range of real-world issues and settings
Deploy analytic frameworks and tools to develop effective policy approaches to specific social problems
Adeptly consider and respond to objections to proposed policy solutions
Collaborate with …communities to develop policy strategies that address pressing issues.” University Bulletin.
How can we demand these educational commitments for our students and not of ourselves? Our students are now taking the lead. These are the leaders of the next generation. It is our responsibility as faculty to support the peaceful demonstration and encourage the dialogue by which they seek change.