Overview
The Governors State University Social Justice Initiative (SJI) was established to service communities in South Suburban Chicago or what is known to area residents as the Southland. Initiated under the vision of Dr. Cheryl Green, the SJI is currently organized under the guidance of Dr. Phyllis West. Through a collaboration of representatives from the University, area non-profits, students, and residents, the SJI advisory council works to ensure efforts meet the needs of the surrounding communities that make up the Southland.
Through hosting events, providing services, research, educational activities, and community outreach the SJI seeks to make a difference in the lives of area residents. Among the accomplishments of the SJI is working towards the realization of the Governors State University legal clinic. The legal clinic is being designed to provide pro-bono legal assistance and services to residents and students in the Southland.
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Mission
The SJI’s mission is to transform vulnerable populations, racial and economic injustice, and structural and social barriers of underrepresented individuals, families, and communities in the Southland and in the State of Illinois. SJI’s goal is to address these social conditions through the utilization of research, policy, advocacy, restorative justice, and experiential learning.
Areas of Focus
• The Self-Help Legal Assistance Clinic
• Student Leadership Development
• Arts, Culture, and Media
• Generating Hope – A Comprehensive Restorative Justice Program and Support for System Impacted Students (formerly involved with the criminal justice system)
Resources
Legal Clinic
Learn how the Self-Help Legal Assistance Clinic at GSU can provide the legal resources you need.
Events and Programs
Stay up-to-date with our upcoming program-related events.
Scholarships and Internships
Take advantage of all the scholarships and internships available for you.
Advisory Council
Learn more about the Social Justice Initiative's Advisory Council members.
Partners
Find out more about the great work all of our partner organizations are doing.
Contact Information
Monica Y. Holden
Administrative Aide to the Vice President of Academic Affairs & Office of the Provost
Liaison for the GSU Honors Program
Liaison for Digital Learning & Media Design
Liaison for Institutional Research & Effectiveness
Liaison for Social Justice Initiative
Governors State University
One University Parkway
University Park, IL 60484
Email: mholden2@govst.edu
Office Phone#: 708-534-3088, Ext. 3088
Cell Phone#: 708-917-2490