The role of social justice

“The order of society is based on two virtues: justice and charity. Charity is the Samaritan who pours oil on the wounds of the traveller who has been attacked. It is justice’s role to prevent the attack.” – Frederic Ozanam

The St Vincent de Paul Society NSW is able to meet the immediate needs of people facing hardship, but in order to address the longer-term, structural causes of inequality there is a larger approach that must be engaged in: social justice.

Social justice is embedded in the DNA of the Society with the Rule stating: “Where injustice, inequality, poverty or exclusion are due to unjust economic, political or social structures or to inadequate or unjust legislation, the Society should speak out clearly against the situation, always with charity, with the aim of contributing to and demanding improvements.” (7.6)

These improvements can be brought about by members engaging with social justice in their Conferences and as part of the Social Justice Committee.

Tom Gersbach is the NSW Vice President – Social Justice and Chair of the Social Justice Committee, which assists the State Council to develop and implement a policy and advocacy agenda in line with the Society’s values. This includes drawing on the experiences of members and the people we assist to inform our Social Justice Statements, Election Statements, Pre-Budget Submissions and collaborating with like-minded organisations and campaigns. 

As a member of the Camden/Oran Park Conference, where he also chairs the Social Justice Networks for Wollongong and Macarthur, Tom understands the complementary importance of offering practical assistance and advocating for broader change.

Joining the Society in retirement following a career as a registered nurse, Tom has been actively involved in providing emergency relief to his community. In seeing the circumstances faced by people seeking assistance, along with resources available to meet that need, Tom’s motivation to take a proactive ‘prevention is better than cure’ approach led him to become involved in social justice.

Some of the advocacy campaigns Tom has been a part of with fellow social justice representatives include petitioning for more social and affordable housing, meeting with MPs and candidates to discuss the Society’s election priorities and supporting the ‘Raise The Rate’ call to increase JobSeeker.

“The support and camaraderie of fellow volunteers and the Society’s Social Justice Team is very helpful,” says Tom.

“One of the most rewarding aspects is witnessing the tangible improvements in people’s lives and knowing that our collective efforts are part of a larger movement for social justice and human rights.”

When advocating on issues with MPs or their advisers, Tom recommends that members and volunteers be familiar with the Society’s position, such as their Social Justice Statements, and confirm they are one of the MP’s constituents.

“It’s important to secure an appointment stating the reason for their visit, stick to the point, present, and discuss the Society’s position, and seek the MP’s support,” says Tom.

“A follow up email to summarise the outcome or any commitments made is also important.

“Some Conference members and volunteers may feel a little daunted about meeting with their MPs, my advice is to relax and be yourself.

“Feel reassured that you are representing the Society’s position, and you will be supported with details, research, and other information, including training in advocacy.”

To learn more and get involved with Social Justice in your Central Council, contact social.justice@vinnies.org.au.