Original Research
Exploring Social Justice in Mixed/Divided Cities: From Local to Global Learning
Authors:
Corey Shdaimah ,
University of Maryland School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD
About Corey
PhD, LLM
Jane Lipscomb,
University of Maryland School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD
About Jane
PhD, RN, FAAN
Roni Strier,
University of Haifa School of Social Work, Haifa, Israel
About Roni
PhD
Dassi Postan-Aizik,
University of Haifa School of Social Work, Haifa, Israel
About Dassi
MSW
Susan Leviton,
University of Maryland School of Law, Baltimore, MD
About Susan
JD
Jody Olsen
University of Maryland School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD
About Jody
PhD, MSW
Abstract
Background
University of Haifa and the University of Maryland, Baltimore faculty developed a parallel binational, interprofessional American-Israeli course which explores social justice in the context of increasing urban, local, and global inequities.
Objectives
This article describes the course's innovative approach to critically examine how social justice is framed in mixed/divided cities from different professional perspectives (social work, health, law). Participatory methods such as photo-voice, experiential learning, and theatre of the oppressed provide students with a shared language and multiple media to express and problematize their own and others' understanding of social (in)justice and to imagine social change.
Findings
Much learning about “self” takes place in an immersion experience with “others.” Crucial conversations about “the other” and social justice can occur more easily within the intercultural context. In these conversations, students and faculty experience culture as diverse, complex, and personal.
Conclusions
Students and faculty alike found the course personally and professionally transformative. Examination of social justice in Haifa and Baltimore strengthened our appreciation for the importance of context and the value of global learning to provide insights on local challenges and opportunities.
How to Cite:
Shdaimah, C., Lipscomb, J., Strier, R., Postan-Aizik, D., Leviton, S. and Olsen, J., 2017. Exploring Social Justice in Mixed/Divided Cities: From Local to Global Learning. Annals of Global Health, 82(6), pp.964–971. DOI: http://doi.org/10.1016/j.aogh.2016.11.010
Published on
15 Mar 2017.
Peer Reviewed
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