World Day of Social Justice – February 20, 2024

by Sr. Mary Ann Zimmer, ND

Each year since 2009, the United Nations has observed February 20 as the World Day of Social Justice. The observance intends to inspire action so that every person would have what they need to live a dignified life. This can include basic physical needs like nutrition and housing as well as freedom from violence, discrimination, and more. As of this writing, this year’s theme has not been announced, but you can read about the purpose of the annual observance here.

One important concept that supports this vision is the idea of equity. We often talk of equality for everyone when we are discussing the need for social justice. However, that concept has some serious limitations. Giving people with different needs equal aid or opportunity may not create justice. An unemployed parent could be given the same job opportunity as their neighbor, but if they lack childcare, the job opportunity will not cover their need. Having the same job offer is equality; having a means of living that includes care for the family is equity.

Equity means providing for each person or group what meets their particular need, which may be quite different than that of another. Below is one popular image that makes this notion concrete. Giving each soccer fan an equal box does not create just participation. On the other hand, if each has an accommodation that addresses their requirement, they will all benefit from the opportunity in front of them.

I encourage you to try on this comparison with your own examples and see how it feels. We in the U.S. are very wedded to the idea of equality but can be somewhat uncomfortable with the idea of one person or group getting more than another.

Do you see inequities in the world around you? Are there any that particularly tug at your heart? On February 20 we can join the global community asking that question and maybe even find our small way to create a more just world in solidarity with people in every neighborhood and on every continent.

https://www.hopkinsacg.org/health-equity-equality-and-disparities/