True Equality for Our Nation

In the 241 years we've been a nation, we are still struggling with inequality in our society. We do not have equal pay for equal work. We are still dealing with racial and gender inequality. And then there are the many other forms of discrimination we hear about daily as well. Whether we realize it or not, these societal disparities have an adverse impact on the well-being of every person in this country. Our world is increasingly interdependent and ignoring the growing gap between "the haves" and "the have nots" will have its repercussions. It is, therefore, my wish that we actively work towards true equality in the United States.



 



We need to do more than just passively sit in our living rooms watching the news or browsing the internet and complain about the lack of equality in this country. If we are truly serious about a commitment to the fundamental values of equality in this country, then we must take ACTION. It all starts with each of us progressing forward and making our voices heard. Our individual choices and actions have a great impact on the collective human experience. If we want change, we must "be the change."



 



So ask yourself, "What can I do?"



 



Senator Dianne Feinstein, only 1 of 3 women who serves on the Judiciary Committee, recommends, "[You] need to get out there. Make [your] voice heard. Call your members, State legislators, and local officials. Organize. Run for office. Play a direct role in governance. Don't wait for someone else to do it."



 



Feinstein says the laws are supposed to ensure equal rights for all, uphold voting rights for all, demand equal pay for equal work, maintain workers rights and protect our environment. We must get involved with making changes to our laws that will promote equal rights for everyone.



 



"Never doubt that a small, group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."

~Margaret Mead



 



One of the ways to get involved is by joining a social justice organization. StartGuide.org has a pretty comprehensive list of organizations that you can find on their Social Justice page:

http://www.startguide.org/orgs/orgs06.html



 



Perhaps one of those organizations will resonate with you. By actively working towards spreading the values we believe in and promoting equality in our nation, we make a huge contribution to leading a blissful life for ourselves and ultimately for society as a whole.



 



“Whether one is rich or poor, educated or illiterate, religious or nonbelieving, man or woman, black, white, or brown, we are all the same. Physically, emotionally, and mentally, we are all equal. We all share basic needs for food, shelter, safety, and love. We all aspire to happiness and we all shun suffering. Each of us has hopes, worries, fears, and dreams. Each of us wants the best for our family and loved ones. We all experience pain when we suffer loss and joy when we achieve what we seek. On this fundamental level, religion, ethnicity, culture, and language make no difference.”

~14th Dalai Lama



 



Written by: Julia Marie