We can change the world, rearrange the world…

                                                ~”Chicago”, Graham Nash~

Welcome to the blog of the Deerhaven Centre for Social Justice.  Who are we, and what right have we to adopt such a lofty moniker? 

We are a private, nonprofit entity concerned with social justice issues.  We have no political, governmental, or corporate ties.  We are an unincorporated association.  We do not solicit donations, grants, or contributions.  This is a labour of love and personal moral imperative.  Our individual, educational, and professional backgrounds are both American and Canadian.  Our focus is global, and by that we mean the world that stretches from inside our own doorstep outward to the farthest reaches of the planet we all share. 

Our goal is simple: to change the world for the better.  Yes, we can hear the laughter, the scoffing, and the sarcasm in the background.  But this is neither a joke nor an impossible dream.  Each of us changes the world in ways large and small every day.  Who hasn’t had their day brightened and heart lifted by an unexpected smile, a random act of kindness, or a surprise visit from a beloved friend or relative?  Who hasn’t felt their spirits and heart freefall in response to an insult, rejection, or indifferent attitude meted out by a coworker, family member, or a grumpy barrista?  Who hasn’t been on both the giving and receiving end of these scenarios? 

In all of these cases, intentionally or unconsciously, our reactions good and bad spread out from us and impact those around us as surely as the stone ripples the stream, and in so doing, we change the world around us.  At the Deerhaven Centre, we endeavour to do so with intent and with a focus on fostering social justice: a society in which the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of all are met and in which everyone has the opportunity of full and equal participation.  We have a special interest in human rights, environmental issues, economic justice, public policy, and training lay people to use the legal and justice systems to assist and improve the lives of those who are marginalized and those who live in poverty.  We will be discussing a variety of social justice issues, as well as suggestions for social action, in future blogs. 

We welcome you and invite you to join in the discussion, and in social action.  Help us to change, and rearrange, the world.