You: Which floor?
Me: Third, please. Thank you!
You: No problem.
Me: *pauses* May I have a second to speak about your car's extended warranty?
You: *shifts uncomfortably*
Me: Sorry, that was just a really bad joke. I, uh, really wanted to ask you a different question.
You: *nods*
Me: Right. Which term is broader: environmental justice or social justice?
You: Where is this going- I guess social justice; it covers the Earth and climate change, plus civil rights, women's rights, LGBTQIA+ rights, etc.Â
Me: Exactly, that makes sense! But what if I told you that environmental justice is larger in scope than social justice?
You: *cocks brow incredulously* And how exactly do you plan to prove that?
Me: It starts with the definition of 'environment.' Textbooks will tell you it's the abiotic and biotic factors in a given area, and many of us grew up thinking about it as nature. But, the environment is more than that; it is you and I, and everything we interact with.
You: Okay, I can give you that.
Me: *laughs* Thank you! So, if the environment is where, who, and what we interact with, what does that mean for environmental justice?
You: Well, I'd say it means equitable treatment for all.
Me: Agreed! Environmental justice demands equity for all, so at its core, it supports all social justice initiatives. But here's the problem - we have a lot of social justice issues.
You: That's an understatement.
Me: Absolutely, and one I don't feel comfortable ignoring. So, I did what a lot of people have done, and thought about starting a non-profit. Then, I did research and learned that yet another non-profit taking from the limited pool of resources does less to fight global issues and more to create a false sense of action.
You: *nods* I see what you mean. I, too, want to make a difference, but I'm busy and don't know where I'll have the most impact.
Me: I'm glad you feel that sense of responsibility; it gives me hope! I will say - everyone is an expert in something. To maximize your impact, use your talents and knowledge in the spheres you are most trusted in. Then, believe that others are doing the same.
I built a platform for people and organizations, just like you, who want to make a difference but are apprehensive about their impact. LYNKS US directly connects you to causes in need, leveraging your tools to make the world a more just place for all.