When you take on some leadership responsibility in the world, you must accept the fact that you will change lives. You will change the status quo by representing justice or compassion or love. And changes spread from you will be easier to happen again in others because of you. — Doris "Granny D" Haddock, political activist who, at the age of 88, walked across the country to raise awareness and gain support for campaign finance reform.

This workshop offers lessons from the Gulf Coast on the meaning of responsible leadership. Youth explore the importance of individuals working together to create justice. The workshop also provides an opportunity for reflection on people who have joined in past struggles for justice. In Activity 3, youth commemorate their ongoing efforts in creating justice and facilitators have an opportunity to thank to the youth for their contributions to the program.

Goals

This workshop will:

• Identify responsible leadership as a quality needed to bring about a more just world
• Demonstrate the importance of individuals working together to create justice
• Reflect on the work of those who have joined in past struggles for justice.

Learning Objectives

Participants will:

• See responsible leadership as an important quality in justice making and imagine ways they can be responsible leaders
• Explore the complexities of juggling numerous responsibilities
• Participate in a ritual that recognizes their continuing contributions in creating justice
• Reflect on their experiences in Heeding the Call.