Social justice... A means to an end, an end in itself (2nd ed.)
This 2010 policy discussion paper was produced by the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) following a review of their “social justice initiative,” which began in 2003. Through this text, the Association reaffirms its commitment to work for social justice, which is defined as “the fair distribution of society’s benefits, responsibilities, and their consequences.” (p. 10)
In addition to unpacking the concept of fairness, the updated definition of social justice focuses on the advantage that some groups or individuals have relative to others; the need to understand root causes of inequities; and the need to take responsible action to eliminate inequities. (p. 13)
Perhaps most useful to public health practitioners is an evolved version of the Social Justice Gauge (p. 19), designed to spark discussion and to support the development of more equitable programs, policies, and products. In contrast to the original version, the redesigned gauge is meant for broad application, both within and outside the nursing sector. The tool guides practitioners with three key questions about the program, policy, or product they have chosen to investigate. Practitioners are also asked to recognize where injustices exist, and to document the actions that should be taken to reduce these injustices.
Use this resource to
- initiate discussion in your workplace or your professional association about what social justice means
- assess a program, policy or product for its strengths and weaknesses in relation to social justice; and
- identify opportunities to strengthen the ability of a program, policy or product to address and even reduce social injustice.
Canadian Nurses Association. (2010). Social justice... A means to an end, an end in itself. (2nd ed.) Retrieved from http://www.cna-aiic.ca/en/on-the-issues/better-health.
Tags: Healthy public policy, Methods & tools, Modify and orient interventions, Participate in policy development, Report / Document