Two years ago I applied to, and was selected to attend the Social Justice Summit at Iowa State. The SJS is where I met my soon-to-be husband. And to think, I almost didn’t go. I actually had no idea what the summit was about, but I figured, “Hey, this will boost my resume and I’m pretty sure I’m into social justice, so yeah, I guess I’ll go.”

The first night Kathy O’Bear from the Social Justice Training Institute spoke, and changed the way I understand my relation to others who may have more, or less, privilege than myself. The second day, we participated in activities like “Star Power” addressing LGBT issues and later an identity activity where participants share aspects of themselves and their histories with one another non-verbally — my favorite activity. There were small group and large group dialogue that encouraged everyone to reflect on the activities.

Through that reflection, I found the SJS to be a transformative experience. My identity, my relationships with others, and the way I understand society were changed. I was compelled to activism. Last year, I was the co-chairwoman of the SJS. This year, I am participating again as a member of the planning committee. For the 2011 SJS, we will be bringing in another professional facilitator from the Social Justice Training Institute.

This will be my final summit at Iowa State. Both my fiancé and I are attending, together, for the third year. If you are interested in exploring issues of diversity and social relationships, injustice and activism, you must apply to attend this event. Apply online at www.sac.iastate.edu by Jan. 21. I promise you will be transformed, and who knows, you might even make a friend.