Social justice is about more than awareness. It’s about action. On World Day of Social Justice, we recognize the ongoing challenges of inequality, exclusion, and barriers to opportunity that continue to affect communities globally and locally. Rooted in decades of international advocacy, this day reminds us that achieving equity requires collective effort, informed perspectives, and sustained commitment. Whether it’s educating ourselves, supporting organizations doing frontline work, or advocating for fair and inclusive policies, every step contributes to meaningful change. Progress toward a more just and equitable future starts with individuals choosing to engage, speak up, and take responsibility within their own communities. Look below for resources to get involved!

Ways to Become Involved

Certifications & Structured Programs

QUIC Intercultural Awareness Certificate
Multi-session certificate on intercultural competence + inclusion. Search: “QUIC Intercultural Awareness Certificate Queen’s”
Positive Space Program Training
Formal allyship certification for 2SLGBTQ+ inclusion. Search: “Positive Space Queen’s training”
Human Rights and Equity Office Equity Training Workshops
Bookable sessions on anti-racism, consent, bystander intervention. Search: “HREO Queen’s workshops”
Yellow House Student Centre for Equity and Inclusion Peer Education Certificate
Structured peer educator training + facilitation experience. Search: “Yellow House peer educator Queen’s”

Research Opportunities (Actual Programs to Apply To)

Queen’s Undergraduate Research Fellowship (QURF)
Paid summer research program. Can work on gender, health equity, DEI topics with a faculty supervisor.
Dean’s Summer Research Studentship (DSRS)
Faculty-based research funding (Arts & Science / Health Sci). Many projects include social inequities + gender research.
SWEP (Summer Work Experience Program) Research Roles
Paid campus jobs. Often includes research assistant positions in equity, policy, or health.
Queen’s Gender Studies Program Independent Research Courses (GNDS 400-level)
Do your own supervised research project on feminist or intersectional topics.

Community-Based Research / Advocacy You Can Join

Sexual Assault Centre Kingston Volunteer Training Program
Formal intake + crisis support training, then direct advocacy work.
Kingston Immigration Partnership Community Research Projects
Works on local equity data + policy. Students can join working groups or consultations.
United Way Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox & Addington Research & Impact Projects
Opportunities to engage in local poverty, housing, and equity-related research initiatives.

Student-Led / Conference / Presentation Opportunities

Queen’s Undergraduate Research Conference (QURC)
Present your own research on gender, DEI, or social justice.
Queen’s Equity Conference
Apply as a speaker, panelist, or organizer on equity topics.
AMS Social Issues Commission Committees
Join working groups that actively run equity campaigns + initiatives.