When We Stand: The Power of Seeking Justice Together

4.5 stars and rounding up.

As someone who isn't part of the Church, I still found much of this book resonated with my world view and the importance of becoming involved in your community to invoke real change.

I found this to be a very insightful examination of the social justice call many people have found themselves experiencing over the past 18 months between the pandemic, police brutality incidents, and oppressive legislation that has been passed across the nation.

A lot of the examples in the book focus around homelessness, and I found it very inspiring to hear the different ways in which people have been helping those living on the streets not only get access to things they need, but also to be treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.

My big take away from this book is...find the thing that drives you to change and focus on that thing. We all have a role to play and we can't do everything ourselves. It takes a village, and you have to start your journey with that first step.

I'll leave you with these quotes:
“Find your inspiration. Unsurprisingly, many people who undertake social justice work have been affected personally by the issues they get involved in. It is incredibly powerful to see someone who has come out on the other side of addiction, step into the role of a counselor, or an advocate for someone else who is currently facing the very same struggles.”

“Your fight may be found in what makes you burn with frustration, or what lights you up with joy. Yet, even with a desire to help firmly in place it's natural to feel a bit nervous about the process of becoming involved in justice projects. My hope is to empower you to move beyond your fear.”