DataCenter Research Justice Community Forum

October 4, 2007 at 3:00 pm at 5:00 pm

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RESEARCH JUSTICE

“Come learn about the field of Research Justice and participate in dynamic discussion and strategy session to build the field and strengthen the Movement for Social Justice”

What is Research Justice?
Research Justice is about changing the power balance around “research” and empowering communities to use their own knowledge. With access to tactical and applied social science tools communities become the information gatherers, framers and disseminators. Workers interview other workers on economic conditions. Young people research school policies and translate materials for their peers. Neighborhood residents conduct a community needs assessments to inform city council.

Research Justice is then achieved because communities’ truth-telling from their own perspective and in their own words becomes inherently relevant to all decision-making tables in society.

Why Research Justice?
In our ongoing struggles for social justice and equity, low-income community voices are often ignored or manipulated by powerful decision-makers. This leads to disempowered communities and ineffective solutions.

How does Research Justice strengthen the Movement?
Information is necessary for communities to counteract the research infrastructure that protects and advances the interest of the powerful. Knowledge itself – what it means and who holds it - is a social justice issue, and the ability of communities to reclaim, use and control their own knowledge is a key component in building power and achieving justice.

We hope you will join us on October 4th and spread the word to your colleagues and friends!