Journeys in justice – Loretto celebrates the 2023/24 Loretto Justice Fellows!

May 2024 marks the end of the inaugural year of the Loretto Justice Fellowship program. At this time last year, the Loretto Justice Fellowship program existed only as an idea, a vision for a reimagined approach to Loretto’s work with emerging social justice leaders. Now, we celebrate the incredible gifts and impacts of our seven 2023/24 Loretto Justice Fellows as we wish them well in their continued journeys in justice. Each gave themselves fully to each other, to their placements, to their studies and to Loretto.

In pre-commencement celebrations, the University of Texas-El Paso Department of Social Work celebrated 85 graduates from their Bachelor and Master’s programs. They distinguished 4 of the 85 as outstanding graduates for not only their academic excellence, but leadership, service and commitment to community – 3 of those 4 honorees were Loretto Justice Fellows.

It is the program’s core belief and practice that relationships are the building blocks of systemic change; that in genuine relationship, in genuine community we can move the needle toward a more just and peaceful world for all. 

The Loretto Justice Fellowship community is a practice of hope for the future, while standing on the shoulders of those who came before them. The work of justice is incredibly hard, it is both a marathon and a sprint. Together, we are fueled, supported, strengthened; made resilient and steadfast; inspired by each other and inspiring each other. 

This week on Facebook, Loretto will highlight the experiences of the 2023/24 Loretto Justice Fellows and share their plans for continued work for justice and actions for peace.