Every February 20, World Day of Social Justice invites us to reflect on the inequalities that exist in our societies and the role each of us can play in building a more just and equitable world. On this day, Benjamín Donoso, S.J., chaplain at TECHO , shares a message to inspire us and help us continue moving forward together.
The Social Justice Moonshot
“Moonshot” is an English term that describes the approach to tackling major problems with radical solutions and disruptive techniques. In Spanish, we could think of it as what we call a “mission impossible”—a challenge so immense and daunting that, even though it seems unattainable, it is the very process of trying that brings about profound change and transformation, and allows us to move forward, together, toward a better future. When goals are ambitious, they may not be fully achieved, but the very act of striving toward something great and noble is worthwhile and life-changing—all the more so when the adventure is undertaken alongside many others.”
Achieving social justice in our society is an ideal that seems unattainable. We dream of a world where equal opportunities and rights are guaranteed for all people, regardless of their background or circumstances. A just society is one that moves forward with all its members, equitably and without leaving anyone behind. Building a just society free of poverty is that guiding star that lights the way and gives us courage.
In Latin America, there are still 180 million people living in informal settlements. These are families living in a state of constant emergency: without basic services and in substandard housing, facing great uncertainty about the security of their homes, cut off from the opportunities the city offers, and burdened by the stigma of poverty. This is unfair, and it cannot continue this way.
At TECHO , this situation troubles TECHO and spurs us to action. We are sensitive, restless young people, full of creativity and eager to get to work. Our construction projects and social interventions may seem small given the immense challenge, but they represent a first step on the path toward adequate housing and an incentive for community organization and leadership to achieve greater things. They also demonstrate that by collaborating—social organizations, public entities, and private companies—we can ensure that one day, no one on our entire continent will have to live on a dirt floor.
"Let's continue to aim high and chart a course toward making social justice a reality."
Benjamín Donoso, S.J., Chaplain of TECHO .
Edited by Lucía Carabelli