Social Justice Group

Turning belief in justice, equity and compassion into action 

Recently the Social Justice Group invited the Xavier Social Justice Network (XSJN) to present and discuss the work of the XSJN and the ways interested parishioners could become involved with the Network.  The following summarises some of the discussion during the presentation by Anna Wright-Smith of the XSJN.

The XSJN is a community group committed to putting social justice values into practice through action, advocacy, and working together.  Guided by the Jesuit tradition, the Network invites community members and friends to join in creating a fairer and kinder society.

The vision of XSJN is to encourage and support the community in which we live to stand up for dignity and fairness for everyone.  The mission of the XSJN is to bring people together, share knowledge, and take action to address social injustices and help the wider community.

The Network is guided by turning the three enduring values of justice, equity and compassion into action where:

• justice is standing with people on the margins and challenging the structures that keep them there
• equity is opening access to resources, services and genuine opportunity, and
• compassion is meeting people with empathy and dignity

The Network works to raise awareness about social justice issues, facilitate direct action and volunteering, support advocacy and systemic change, and build sustainable partnerships with community organisations.  Its main priorities are reducing poverty, supporting refugees and asylum seekers, addressing homelessness, and promoting environmental justice.  The XSJN is focussed on ensuring its work reaches those who need it most.

In everything the XSJN does, it aims to act with inclusiveness, respect, thoughtfulness, and unity and encourages working together, careful reflection, and serving others in ways that honour everyone’s dignity.

When choosing volunteering partners, XSJN looks for organisations that share its values, make a real difference locally, and offer safe, meaningful experiences for volunteers.  The Network regularly reviews the partnerships it has with 17 social support organisations to ensure they remain valuable for everyone involved.

The Network believes there are five broad categories of ways to get involved namely mentoring, tutoring, hands-on and community support, companionship, and skilled volunteering.  Most roles need no special experience, just a willingness to give time and goodwill.

Next month’s article from our Parish’s Social Justice Group will provide more information on the 17 social support organisations with which the XSJN partners, but in the meantime, if you’d like to learn more or get involved, you can visit the XSJN’s Social Justice Connect Hub to see current opportunities and connect with the Network’s team.

XSJN welcomes everyone who wants to help build a kinder, fairer world—one small action at a time.

By Michael Ryan

If you are interested in joining or finding out more about the Our Lady of Pentecost Parish Social Justice Group, please contact Michael Ryan on 0400 602 402 or email [email protected]