World Day of Social Justice

World Day of Social Justice is observed internationally on February 20

In light of Reading Week, U of A will be observing World Day of Social Justice February 27 and 28, 2024

It is important to recognize how mental health and social justice are directly interconnected. Social injustices can cause cumulative stress that takes a mental, physical, and emotional toll on us as individuals. These injustices can affect our mental health negatively, and some of us are more heavily impacted than others. Social Justice as a lens encourages us to frame mental health as a collective, rather than individual effort for the wellbeing of all.

Observing World Social Justice Day reminds us to proactively address systemic issues and acknowledge how gender, age, race, ethnicity, religion, culture, sexuality, disability, and economic status create barriers and privileges that impact our community. Caring for our mental health also means advocating for equity, diversity, and inclusion on campus for not just ourselves but those around us as well. In doing so, we are more likely to enhance the well-being of our community as a whole.

Living Library

Feb. 27 in person | Feb. 28 online

Living Libraries help spread awareness about how mental health intersects with social justice, build empathy and confront stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination through sharing personal experiences.

Volunteers or “living books” share a chapter of their life with small groups of U of A students, faculty and staff. From a personal lens, living book volunteers share their experiences on topics including but not limited to resilience, challenges and paths toward change with their listeners. Listen to one of our 12 Living Books talk about their personal experiences where their mental health intersected with social justice.

2024 Living Library Schedule and Registration