Some of the original social justice conversations began in the 19th century during the Industrial Revolution to promote more egalitarian societies and reduce the exploitation of certain marginalized groups due great disparities between the rich and poor. Today, social justice has shifted towards a stronger emphasis on human rights and improving the lives of disadvantaged and marginalized groups that have historically faced discrimination in society. We continue to see and experience discrimination based on race, sex, age, wealth, ethnicity, heritage, social status, religion, and others.
Social justice and equity work is still all too common and very necessary. Even in the context of a pandemic, after the murder of George Floyd people spilled into the streets to protest police violence, racial discrimination, and the scourge of white supremacy. The United States recorded its largest protests in the history of the country’s existence. Join Equity and Social Justice leaders to discuss where we are, what has changed, and where we should be going to realize country where thriving is a right and not a privilege. Led by Dr. Ryan Ross with Emily Shamsid-Deen; Principal, ESD Consulting, Keith Station; Deputy Chief of Staff—Diversity, Equity & Inclusion City of Omaha Mayor’s Office, Lana Hailemariam; Chief Executive Officer, StandUP, LLC, Reiland Rabaka; Founder and Director, Center for African and African American Studies, University of Colorado Boulder, and Dr. Roberto Montoya; Chief Educational Equity Officer Colorado Department of Higher Education.