Student holding plant next to text that reads, "Environmental and Social Justice Wing."
Rebecca (Senior Student, Former Resident of the DJS Community - Environmental and Social Justice Wing) "Ordal Hall has allowed me to flourish in my academic and personal endeavors."

About Environmental & Social Justice (ESJ)

Promote Justice for the Earth & for People.  Become an Advocate for Positive Social Change.

The Environmental & Social Justice (ESJ) community seeks to create a safe, supportive, and diverse environment that challenges students to explore social and environmental justice issues and begin the work towards equity as engaged citizens on both local and global levels. ESJ promotes opportunities for students to challenge themselves to learn and act in ways that make a difference in the lives of others. The ESJ community is an exciting opportunity to meet new people, learn about yourself, explore issues of injustice, and serve as agents for change within your communities. Students will be able to have the added value of relationships with faculty/staff and collaboration with the Center for Diversity, Justice, and Sustainability.

Great For Students Who ...

  • are interested in gaining an increased understanding of their values through reflection on
  • want to learn more about the intersectional concepts of environmental and social justice
  • are interested in learning how to create positive change in their communities and at PLU

Program + Learning Outcomes

By participating in the ESJ Wings, students will:

  • be involved in discussions, programs, and leadership development around the concept of social and environmental action
  • recognize their voices as leaders
  • be able to identify ways to take action on our campus and our greater Tacoma community to enact positive change

Linked Course(s)

YES (for new First-Year Students)

All first-year students have the option to enroll (on a first-come, first-served basis) in a linked First Year Experience Program (FYEP) course on the topic of social justice. Examples of linked courses from fall 2021 include:

  • Smushed with Strangers and Other Public Transit Stories | Rebecca Wilkin | FYEP 101 Section 06
  • Democratic Citizenship | James Albrecht | FYEP 101 Section 08
  • Asian American Experience | Rick Barot | FYEP 101 Section 09
  • Banned Books | Lisa Marcus | FYEP 101 Section 13

Linked Residence Hall(s)

Ordal Hall (two wings)

Example Programs

Below are a few examples of programs that have happened in this Learning Community in the past! If you have an idea for a wing or hall program, contact your Resident Assistant or Community Advocate to see about planning it!

  • DJS Retreat at the Center for Diversity, Justice, and Sustainability
  • Habitat for Humanity Volunteering
  • Staycation Parkland Immersion Alternative Spring Break | sponsored by the Center for Community Engagement and Service
  • My Culture is Not a Costume | Conversations with the Diversity Center about cultural appropriation in Halloween costumes
  • Tunnel of Oppression

Contact

For more information about this Learning Community option you may contact:

Dream Gonzales, Community Director for Ordal and Stuen Halls | dgonzales@plu.edu