Social Justice Advocacy
Seeking Charity and Justice, Serving with Hope!
Excerpted from Rule of the International Confederation of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, Relationship With Civil Society – Work For Social Justice
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul gives immediate help but also seeks mid-term and long-term solutions. It is concerned not only with alleviating need but also with identifying the unjust structures that cause it. We are committed to identifying the root causes of poverty and to contributing to their elimination. In all our charitable actions we search for justice!
A Vision Of The Civilization Of Love
Affirming the dignity of each human being as created in God’s image, with a particular identification with those who are excluded by society, Vincentians envision a more just society in which the rights, responsibilities and development of all people are promoted. As citizens of one world, Vincentians endeavor to create a more equitable and compassionate social order and a civilization of love.
Vision Of The Future
Our vision goes beyond the immediate future, looking towards sustainable development and protection of the environment for the benefit of future generations.
The Practical Vincentian Approach To Social Justice
The distinctive approach of Vincentians to issues of social justice is to see them from the perspective of those we visit who suffer from injustice.
A Voice For The Voiceless
We help and encourage the poor and disadvantaged to speak for themselves. When they cannot, we must speak on behalf of those who are ignored.
Facing The Structures Of Injustice
Where injustice, inequality, poverty or exclusion are due to unjust economic, political or social structures or to inadequate or unjust legislation, we speak out clearly against the situation, always with charity, with the aim of contributing to and demanding improvements.
Striving To Change Attitudes
Vincentians oppose discrimination of all kinds and work to change the attitudes of those who view the weak or those who are different with prejudice, fear or scorn, attitudes which gravely wound the dignity of others.
The Society strives, with charity, to foster new attitudes of respect and empathy for the weak, so that all are able to understand, recognize and defend the right of each person to be responsible for his or her own life.
The Society promotes understanding, cooperation and mutual love among people of different cultures, religions, ethnic origins and social groups, and so contributes to the peace and unity of all peoples.
Political Independence Of The Society
The Society does not identify with any political party and always adopts a nonviolent approach.
Working With Communities
The Society works not only with individuals in need but also with families and communities. We can help an excluded or deprived local community to develop a sense of responsibility and solidarity which leads it to improve its economic, social or environmental well-being, always retaining the personal contact of members with those who suffer.
