ABSTRACT
"Slacktivism" is a term that has been coined to cynically describe the token efforts that people devote to some cause, without long-term or meaningful impact. We wear colored wristbands, pins, or ribbons proclaiming support for a particular organization. We might post something on social network sites or send messages to friends about causes dear to our hearts. We might even volunteer our time to work on behalf of marginalized, oppressed, or neglected groups—or donate money to a charity. Yet the key feature of significant social action is follow through—continuing efforts over a period of time so as to build meaningful relationships, provide adequate support, and conduct evaluations to measure results and make needed adjustments that make programs even more responsive.
This book is intended as an inspiration for practicing psychotherapists and counselors, as well as students, to become actively involved in a meaningful effort. The authors have searched far and wide to identify practitioners representing different disciplines, helping professions, geographic regions, and social action projects, all of whom have been involved in social justice efforts for some time, whether in their own communities or in far-flung regions of the world. Each of them has an amazing story to tell that reveals the challenges they’ve faced, the incredible satisfactions they’ve experienced, and what lessons they’ve learned along the way. Each story represents a gem of wisdom, revealing both questions of faith, as well as of sustained action. The authors have been encouraged to dig deeply in order to talk about the honest realities of their work. After reading their stories, you will be ready to pick a cause that speaks to you and begin your own work.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
part I|25 pages
Re-Visioning Clinical Practice
part II|44 pages
The Dreamers
part III|126 pages
Community Action
chapter 7|13 pages
Sacred Advocacy
chapter 9|16 pages
Walking the Tightrope of Change
chapter 11|10 pages
Moving Beyond the Professional Response to Gender-Based Violence
chapter 13|15 pages
“Illumination of the Human Spirit”
chapter 14|19 pages
When Your Liberation is Tied Up With Mine
part IV|68 pages
Global Outreach
chapter 19|12 pages
Feminist Border Crossings
part V|30 pages
Closure and Reflection