Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Integrated Justice & Social Change Collaborative?

We are located at Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven, CT and focused on creating space for people to be in community with each other. Whether online or in person, we want to create opportunities and spaces where people are exposed to ideas and others that they may not have access to otherwise.

Specifically, we are here to help people and organizations in the local or broader community to execute a vision they may have, but may need some kind of support in making it a reality. Our unofficial motto is, “If you have something that you would like to do, we want to try and help you do it!” You just need to reach out to us to share your idea and we can start the process. CLICK HERE to share an idea.

Who is the IJSC Collaborative for?

Anyone interested in connecting with others around issues of equity and justice — certainly people from Connecticut, but also from beyond. Our community-initiated conversations, projects, and events explore a wide range of topics that are intended to support people in making new connections. Some events may have a more narrow focus that appeals to certain people or groups based on identity or interest, but our events are for everyone.

Why should/would I get involved?

We hope the interactions in our IJSC Collaborative spaces will help create better interpersonal relationships, understanding, empathy and knowledge. We believe we all can learn to communicate better with one another and go beyond the surface. A crucial step for change is to step out of our comfort zones to learn about, and talk to, people more deeply.

Our events are meant to be stepping stones that bring you to new people, ideas, and better communication and engagement. It is a personal choice whether to be involved or not, but we welcome you to the challenge of being a social justice leader in ways that you feel are important. The goal is to be easy, free, and work toward connection and understanding with others. We hope you will engage us as a trusted and favored community resource that can help you realize ideas you have for connection and collaboration.

In what ways can I collaborate with the IJSC Collaborative? What does involvement look like?

Involvement in the IJSC Collaborative is centered around your idea and the timeline you are on. CLICK HERE to share an idea.

We invite you to:

• Submit ideas that you would like to see realized but do not want to be the one to create or host – we will work to make it a reality.
• Suggest ideas and events that you would like to develop and host — we will work to support your process and event.
• Share your ideas or events where people or organizations can connect with one another — we will help in whatever ways you think would be useful.
• Participate in our various events, or the resources on the website, and participate as it suits you.
• Let people know about us — spread the word to your network that we are here to support your work.
• Join our email list to keep up with the goings on at the IJSC Collaborative.

Remember, your engagement can be as much or as little as you like.

Who is part of the IJSC Collaborative Network?

All types of individuals and organizations committed to the goals of justice and social change are part of the IJSC Collaborative Network: advocates, non-profits, for-profits, educators, researchers, foundations, students, affinity groups, and more.

How do you join the IJSC Collaborative Network?

Joining this network is FREE and has a number of benefits such as giving you the opportunity to be the first to know about events, participate in networking events, and more. If you want to participate as a member, partner, or sponsor, there are tiered options and benefits. JOIN THE NETWORK AT THIS LINK!

Does it cost anything for me to participate in, suggest, or facilitate an event?

Most events will be free or at a minimal cost for those hosting or participating. They are not meant to be held for monetary gain but for deeper understanding between people. When there are events where a fee is charged, we will be transparent about why we are charging a fee and where the monies will go.

What kinds of events does the IJSC Collaborative hold?

We are here to help host conversations, book clubs, language meets, panels, interviews, art events, etc. Let’s put it this way, as we said above: If you have something you would like to take place or share, let us know and we will try to make it happen.

Where will these events be held?

These events can be held virtually online or in-person. In person events may be held at Southern or off campus in community venues.

How do I share an idea or set up an event?

You can email us or CLICK HERE to get a form were you can share your ideas. We will contact you as soon as we receive your request.

How do people learn about IJSC Collaborative Events?

We have an Event Calendar on our website (CLICK HERE) that people can check. We will send out announcements to our network so that people know what is going on. We will also strive to get various events listed in local community calendars so that as many people as possible know about them. However, we would appreciate YOU sharing our information and events with others in your network so we can reach and support as many people and organizations as possible.