Faith and Social Justice

by Ellen Klopp

Dr. Chmiel,

I wanted to tell you that I did read The Book of Mev over Christmas Break and I loved it. When you had written in the book that you hoped it would help me in my journey toward social justice I was confused as to how it was going to do that, but it all became clear very quickly. I had no idea all the work that Mev had done! Plus, I could relate to the thoughts that she had. Obviously a lot of people have, but just hearing about her work through you is such an inspiration to me! I am now reading The Struggle is One and hearing her ask everyone what they suggest for middle-class Americans is just encouraging me more and more to continue working for a more just world. In addition, just reading this book is helping me be reconnected with my faith. I used to think about theology and faith more, and somehow in the midst of all my social work stuff I lost it. Seems like they should be more tied, but if you don’t try and want it to be that way it’s not. So, I’m grateful for the reminder of how faith can be tied into social justice work and also the importance of it for me. It makes so much more sense when you realize everything you do should be done in the name of the Lord.

Ellen took Social Justice in the fall of 2005. She is a last semester senior, majoring in Social Work.