The University of Vermont

The Next Step: Students Sharing in a Social Justice Journey

The Next Step: A Social Justice Retreat

Our Mission & Vision Statement
The mission of Next Step is to create a safe and inclusive, yet challenging experience for students (undergraduate and graduate), staff, and faculty where issues of social injustice and oppression are discussed honestly and openly through the experiences and stories of each other.  

We envision a growing family of Next Step alumni who believe it is in their best interest to help create
a world of compassion, justice and equity
for all people.
It is the responsibility of all alumni to work towards
a campus and greater community which fosters
mutual respect and
a safe environment
for all people.
As lifelong learners, activists, and socially just people, Next Step alumni therefore, commit to continuously educate themselves and
actively work toward goals which include daily work on making their communities just and safe places for all. 

The retreat is meant to achieve three objectives:
    To provide the opportunity for Students to tell their own stories and hear the stories of others.
    To provide a beginning understanding of the intersection of privilege and oppression.
    To encourage coalition building between students across difference. 


Furthermore, students should leave with:
    An understanding of what culture is.
    An awareness of who they are as cultural beings.
    New connections with others on campus, committed to this “next step.”
    Personal goals for beyond the retreat.

Last modified September 30 2009 12:28 PM

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