LUM Social Justice – Vision for the Future
A Message from LUM Executive Director
I am appreciatively aware of the legacy of four decades of strong advocacy by LUM for social justice. As LUM looks to the next 40 years, it starts with today. Who are the people in our community today who are on the margins, who are oppressed, who could use a helping hand up to the table of genuine community?
We keep our eyes particularly upon those who are economically disadvantaged and who are most powerless to change their situation. That almost always leads us to children, to older adults, to Black, indigenous, and other people of color, and to people with disabilities. LUM will continue to advocate for justice — passionately believing in the God-given dignity of every human being.
As we move into the future by addressing needs today, I think of Jud Dolphin, LUM executive director emeritus and founder of the LUM Social Justice Ministry. He spoke often about the three legs of LUM: #1 direct acts of compassion, #2 empowerment, and #3 legislation. For me,
- Giving a person a fish = direct acts of compassion
- Teaching a person to fish = empowerment
- Making sure a person has access to the fish and the fishing pond, and that the pond is not polluted = legislation / advocacy.
LUM plans to continue to devote resources to pursuing and practicing justice at local, state, and federal levels. We will do so by advocating for legislation that will have a positive effect on low-income households, and bring about a more just society.
Wes Tillett
LUM Executive Director
A strong, public voice for Indiana families and children in need
FIND YOUR Your State Legislators
Follow this link to find out: http://iga.in.gov/legislative/find-legislators/. Every phone call and email makes a difference as we work to protect the interests of Hoosier Families!
The LUM Social Justice Team is an alliance of faith-based organizations that engages local, state and federal officials on behalf of low-income Indiana families and children as well as individuals experiencing homelessness. Thank you for helping to support Indiana Families!