Earlier this year, the Social Justice Collective was established as a club for Schoolcraft students who are interested in analyzing and discussing social issues through mass media. Social Justice Collective is a wonderful opportunity for students who are dedicated to raising awareness about social problems. The collective seeks to raise funds and help out individuals in the local community as well, specifically those who are affected by homelessness, substance abuse and/or interpersonal violence.
Social Justice Collective was founded in the Spring semester by student and career mentor Nikki Wells, who has held a lifelong passion for social justice and activism. Wells originally came up with the idea for Social Justice Collective while taking Mass Media and Popular Culture, or Humanities 212. The course dives into the multiple ways in which mass media and popular culture are able to create narratives. The content of the class allows students to understand and examine how these narratives affect the lives of the public as they perpetuate specific rhetoric and ideology.
Throughout the class, students watch and analyze the critically-acclaimed television series “The Wire,” which takes place in the city of Baltimore and was released in 2002. The show critiques systemic racism, the decline of metropolitan cities and the war on drugs that created a new wave of injustice, impunity and corruption within Baltimore.
Wells was inspired by the content and discussions of the class.
“I thought the whole idea of using mass media to address social issues is just such a brilliant thing,” said Wells.. “I have been a social activist by heart my whole life from my own systemic barriers that I had to overcome, and just seeing people I love go through things. I always wanted to, when I became able to, whatever I got, just give it back. [Social Justice Collective] was just a great opportunity to blend the two things,” she continued.
By the end of the semester, Wells brought the concept to Professor Helen Ditouras who teaches the class and currently serves as the faculty advisor for Social Justice Collective.
“Nikki is one of my former students and over the last few semesters, we have had some candid conversations about the intersection of social justice and student well-being; Nikki’s passion for social justice aligned with my teaching pedagogy and I wanted to support her journey as a student at Schoolcraft College,” said Ditouras.
The club is open to anyone with the desire to make a difference and change in the community, as Wells strives for Social Justice Collective to be an inclusive place. It is an opportunity to learn and think critically about
the manner in which the media contributes to and portrays issues like toxic masculinity, racism, gender discrimination, sexual assault, interpersonal violence, etc.
Wells, who hopes to pursue public relations, wants for Social Justice Collective to open minds and hearts. It is meant to be an environment in which humanity and dignity will be prioritized, as well as a place where respect and love can thrive.
The club meets on Thursdays at 2:00 p.m. at the Lower Level, Vistatech Center, in conference room C. Here, students will have the opportunity to engage in critical discussions and organize to create change. Films and documentaries will be the focus for analysis.
Further questions about Social Justice Collective can be sent to the club’s email, [email protected].
