Overview
"The ends you serve that are selfish will take you no further than yourself but the ends you serve that are for all, in common, will take you into eternity." (Marcus Garvey)
What is the meaning of advocacy? The Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary defines advocacy as "the act or process of advocating or supporting a cause or proposal." Advocates come in all shapes and sizes. Advocates support the rights of gun owners, the ethical treatment of animals, or the interests of small business owners, among other issues.
Social scientists support the cause of social justice. They advocate for those who cannot or will not speak for themselves. They do this by becoming involved in the life of their communities. As politicians or citizen-leaders, they apply their knowledge of social science theory and research to the resolution of society’s most intractable issues; issues such as immigration, race relations, homelessness, and gender equity.
Civic engagement is a powerful tool. It can be used to eradicate social injustice and promote positive change in our society. You have undoubtedly heard stories about social leaders across the globe -- Nelson Mandela, Lech Walesa, Mother Teresa, Martin Luther King, and others. They are larger than life, and as such, they inspire us. But advocacy and civic engagement begin at home. Click on the next tab on the left to hear the stories of UMUC students and faculty who have made a difference in their communities.