Advocacy: Where to Begin
Definition of Advocacy
Advocacy can take on many names and phrases. You've probably heard people use social justice, social equality, and other phrases that can be used interchangeably. By definition, advocacy is considered "the act or process of supporting a cause or proposal: the act or process of advocating something" (Merriam-Webster, 2020). Social justice, on the other hand, is used when discussing equity amongst individuals within the community, such as "access to resources, being treated with respect, and the application of fairness" (Crook, 2015).
Advocating for Youths and Their Families
Advocating for youths and their families who have been affected by the Juvenile Justice System in one way or another involves a much deeper understanding than simply having sympathy. It is critical that advocates be aware of the internal and external factors that affect juveniles and their families, including resources and the lack thereof, the Juvenile Justice system and its process, available services, and more.
An advocate can take on many roles, and can be there for a portion of the journey or the entirety of the journey. It goes without saying that an advocate should be passionate about the cause they're advocating for. Your level of involvement does not take away from your title as an advocate. But, of course, making yourself more aware of what is going on and how you can properly and professionally address it and advocate either for or against it are critical and can impact the changes made within the system.