The work of justice is an effort to “make it right.” King Solomon writes in Proverbs, “The righteous care about justice for the poor.”
Justice means loving our neighbor as we love ourselves and is rooted in the character of God. As God is loving and just, so we are called to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with Him (Micah 6:8).
Within the refugee community there is much that is not right. The impact of injustice on their lives is often generational: War, hunger, inequality, racism, and lack of educational support are a few of the issues that are real struggles.
When you invest and tutor a student, you are doing the work of justice and putting God’s love in action in a practical way.
J.B. Phillips version of 1 John 3:18 says, “My children, let us not love merely in theory or in words — let us love in sincerity and in practice!”
Here are 10 ways that tutoring a refugee student is an act of justice.
- Tutoring Gives Equal Access to Education: Education is a fundamental human right, and providing tutoring to students who might otherwise lack resources or support helps level the playing field. By offering extra assistance to those who need it most, you’re helping ensure that all individuals have equal access to educational opportunities.
- Tutoring Addresses Systemic Inequities: Many refugees and marginalized students face systemic barriers that hinder their educational progress. By offering tutoring, you’re actively working to counteract these barriers and create a more equitable educational environment.
- Tutoring gives Empowerment: Justice involves empowering individuals to reach their full potential. Tutoring can empower students by giving them the tools, skills, and confidence needed to succeed academically and in all areas of life.
- Tutoring Breaks the Cycle of Poverty: Education is often a key factor in breaking the cycle of poverty. By providing tutoring to students who may not have access to the same resources as their peers, you’re contributing to their long-term socioeconomic well-being.
- Tutoring Dismantles Discrimination: Discrimination and bias can negatively impact educational outcomes for marginalized groups. Tutoring can help counteract these negative effects by giving students the support they need to overcome challenges and succeed despite discrimination.
- Tutoring Promotes Social Inclusion: Tutoring can create a sense of belonging and inclusion for students who might feel marginalized or isolated. By building positive relationships and providing support, you’re fostering a more inclusive and supportive community.
- Tutoring gives Advocacy for Education: Tutoring also plays a role in advocating for the value of education. By volunteering your time and resources, you’re highlighting the importance of education and encouraging others to take action as well.
- Tutoring Promotes Cultural Understanding: Tutoring refugee students can promote cultural understanding and empathy. By engaging with students from different backgrounds, you’re fostering a more compassionate and interconnected society.
- Tutoring allows for Long-Term Impact: The impact of tutoring can extend beyond the immediate educational context. Students who receive tutoring support are more likely to perform better in school, pursue higher education, and contribute positively to their communities.
- Tutoring Creates Positive Change: Justice often involves taking proactive steps to create positive change in society. Tutoring is a tangible and meaningful way to contribute to positive change by improving educational outcomes and opportunities for marginalized individuals.
Ultimately, tutoring a student can be seen as an act of justice because it addresses inequality, empowers individuals, and contributes to a more just and equitable society. It recognizes that everyone deserves the chance to succeed and thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Want to tutor a refugee student?
We have 3 ways to tutor.
- At our weekly Migros Aid Academy (Tuesday evenings)
- As a Migros Mentor you will be paired with a student – You will meet where and when it is convenient for both parties
- At MTI: School of Knowledge, a local School. Migros mentors will be paired with a student at MTI after school on a day that works for both parties to offer 1 hour of homework help.
Background checks and Migros 101 class required
