The hottest Social justice Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics

Gay men on "Team Terf"

Disaffected Newsletter • 279 implied HN points • 03 Aug 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Some gay men align with TERF views, but they may not be safe from backlash themselves. Being part of this group does not guarantee protection from criticism or attacks.
  2. The argument suggests that TERFs see men, including gay men, as tools for their own ideology. Men are viewed as accessories rather than equals in this perspective.
  3. Once gay men express views that contradict TERF beliefs, they risk being labeled as misogynists and face social media consequences. Their support can quickly turn to hostility.

Rationing Rights

Can We Still Govern? • 127 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Many people with disabilities and older adults face long waitlists for Medicaid home care services. These waitlists can last from a few years to over a hundred years, making it hard for them to get the help they need.
  2. The eligibility process for these services is often very confusing. Many families feel overwhelmed and may not even apply because they think it’s unlikely they will receive assistance.
  3. There are calls to make home and community-based services an entitlement. This means that anyone eligible should have the guaranteed right to get these services, making it easier for people with disabilities to live independently.

When Hatred and Fear Mask as Indignation

Philosophy bear • 114 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
📖 Philosophy Social justice
  1. Indignation is feeling morally upset about someone doing something wrong, while contempt is viewing someone as less than human and not caring about their welfare. It's important to understand the difference between these feelings.
  2. People often hide their contempt under the guise of indignation, especially towards groups like children who may commit crimes. We should question this attitude and seek to unmask the true feelings behind it.
  3. Children's moral development is ongoing, and they shouldn't be held to the same standard of moral responsibility as adults. It's unjust to treat them as fully moral agents while denying them basic rights like voting.

From FDR to Coretta Scott King: Economic Rights and the New Poor People's Campaign

Humanities in Revolt • 179 implied HN points • 11 Aug 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. In 1968, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. initiated the Poor People's March to address economic impoverishment that affected African Americans and people of all ethnicities.
  2. Coretta Scott King highlighted that violence against poor people, neglect, and discrimination are forms of violence that require honest confrontation of institutionalized racism.
  3. Franklin Delano Roosevelt called for a 'Second Bill of Rights,' advocating for economic justice as essential for true individual freedom and security.

"No Distinction on Account of Race and Color"

Journal of Free Black Thought • 44 implied HN points • 26 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Frederick Douglass believed that our shared humanity is more important than our race. He thought people should focus on being good people, not just their skin color.
  2. He argued that race pride can create division and that everyone should be treated equally, regardless of their background. Douglass felt that the Constitution already supports equality.
  3. Douglass emphasized that one's character and actions matter more than their race. He praised those who stand up for justice and equality, no matter their skin color.
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The year behind and ahead

The Path Not Taken • 88 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Social justice
  1. In 2024, there were 25 posts made, averaging over two per month, which the writer felt good about considering their other commitments.
  2. The writer has been fundraising for the Malala Fund to support girls' education, highlighting the importance of charitable causes.
  3. A big project is in the works, focusing on the rise of social justice ideology, which may lead to less frequent posts as it requires a lot of time and effort.

How To Fix DEI

The Ruffian • 233 implied HN points • 17 Feb 24
💼 Business Social justice
  1. Define Your Goals clearly for your DEI program to ensure it meets tangible needs and is not just a checkbox exercise.
  2. Focus on Actions Over Symbols in your DEI efforts by making substantial changes like Saatchi and Saatchi's talent pool expansion initiative.
  3. Simplify Ruthlessly and favor Universal Solutions to avoid getting lost in complexity and ensure the maximum impact while cutting across identity boundaries.

Two End-of-Year Talks: bell hooks' Labors of Love and the Power of the Humanities

Humanities in Revolt • 119 implied HN points • 15 Nov 22
🎭️ Culture Social justice
  1. bell hooks emphasized the importance of love as a transformative force in social justice movements, but faced skepticism, especially from younger audiences.
  2. Upcoming presentations will focus on bell hooks' contributions to feminist thought and the power of humanities in understanding existential priorities.
  3. The talks will be open to the public, offer insights into human oppression, and emphasize the value of humanities in shaping our perspectives on living well.

The Discrimination Paradox

Unsafe Science • 91 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. People can experience discrimination even if it happens very rarely. For example, studies show that something like 36% more callbacks were given to White job applicants compared to Black ones, even though only a small number of actual discriminatory acts occurred.
  2. There are different ways to look at discrimination: one way focuses on how often discrimination happens in actions, and another looks at the overall impact on people's experiences. This can make it seem like there are contradictions in findings about discrimination.
  3. Small amounts of discrimination can still have a big effect, especially in competitive situations. Even if discrimination happens infrequently, it can lead to significant problems for those affected, such as fewer job opportunities.

Biology is not Bigotry

Critical Mass • 77 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🔬 Science Social justice
  1. Biological sex is generally defined by the type of reproductive cells, making it binary in nature. This means there are typically only two sexes: male and female.
  2. Self-identity does not change biological sex; feelings and gender roles are different from biological facts. Someone can express their gender in various ways, but that does not alter their biological sex.
  3. Discussions around sex and gender should not overshadow the primary mission of organizations focused on free thought and secularism. It's important to separate scientific understanding from ideology.

Show Me Stupid

Diane Francis • 379 implied HN points • 09 Aug 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Missouri, once known for its common sense, has shifted politically and now struggles with logic and skepticism in its governance.
  2. The state's government, particularly under Governor Mike Parson, has been criticized for rejecting science-based measures like mask mandates during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  3. High-profile pardons for controversial figures, like the McCloskeys, highlight a disparity in justice, where wealthy individuals receive leniency while others face harsh penalties.

The Philosopher Made For TV

From the New World • 75 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
📖 Philosophy Social justice
  1. John Rawls introduced the idea of the 'Veil of Ignorance', which suggests that true justice comes from understanding what it's like to be in someone else's shoes. This concept gained popularity with the rise of television, which allowed people to experience others' lives vicariously.
  2. Television's storytelling created a false sense of understanding between people, making them feel connected to different lives. However, these narratives were often crafted and not authentic representations of reality.
  3. The rise of social media changed the game by giving real, diverse opinions from actual people, breaking down the 'Veil of Ignorance'. Now, individuals can see the real differences among people's values and experiences, making it clear that everyone is unique.

What Elites Do To Others...

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 90 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Elites often make tough decisions that primarily hurt those who are less privileged. They don't usually consider sacrificing their own benefits to help others.
  2. The current climate crisis is getting worse, with potential environmental disasters looming. Action from wealthy individuals and leaders is essential, but they often prioritize their own interests.
  3. Many billionaires believe they cannot be taxed effectively. There are ways to change this, but it requires strong policies and willingness to take action against the wealthy.

American Heroes, 5: The Niagara Movement

Journal of Free Black Thought • 19 implied HN points • 31 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. The Niagara Movement, started in 1905, pushed for full civil rights for black Americans. It was a response to the slow progress of racial equality and aimed for immediate change rather than gradual improvements.
  2. W.E.B. Du Bois and other leaders of the movement believed in the power of educated black individuals to lead the fight against inequality. They wanted to challenge stereotypes and show that black Americans have the capability and moral quality to demand their rights.
  3. The movement emphasized activism and direct action, encouraging black Americans to confront injustice openly. This bold approach influenced future civil rights groups, including the NAACP, which continued the mission of fighting for equality.

The problem with "educate yourself"

The Ruffian • 227 implied HN points • 06 Sep 23
🚌 Education Social justice
  1. Educating yourself involves thinking more clearly, not just accepting a prescribed viewpoint.
  2. The phrase 'educate yourself' has become widespread, often used in a polarizing manner.
  3. The command to 'educate yourself' can have negative implications and may not always be constructive.

The Politics of a Great Unconformity

Street Smart Naturalist: Explorations of the Urban Kind • 139 implied HN points • 01 Sep 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Seattle's Light Rail stations display a mix of very old and relatively new rocks, creating interesting geological features called unconformities.
  2. In 1989, a decision to use stone from South Africa led to a controversy concerning the ethics around apartheid, making local officials reconsider their choices.
  3. The fallout from the stone controversy resulted in a resignation at Metro, highlighting how political and ethical decisions can impact public projects.

In Defense of Artificial Reproduction

The 21st Century Proletarian • 59 implied HN points • 15 Jan 23
🏥 Health Politics Social justice
  1. Feminists like Shulamith Firestone have argued for technological advances in reproduction to challenge gender stereotypes and hierarchies.
  2. Rejecting the natural connection between women and motherhood is important to move towards gender equality and eliminate gender distinctions.
  3. Advocating for responsible use of artificial wombs can lead to progress in gender equality, but it should be approached cautiously with a focus on societal well-being.

Commentator

Castalia • 159 implied HN points • 26 Jun 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. The Dobbs ruling changes the political landscape around abortion, leading to more intense debates and potential loss of legal rights for women. It suggests we may see chaotic battles over reproductive rights in the coming years.
  2. The #MeToo movement is evolving, with a growing concern over 'cancel culture' in schools. Young people are being harshly judged, and the social media backlash can lead to extreme consequences for minor mistakes.
  3. Climate reparations raise complex questions about responsibility for global warming. It's tricky to determine who should pay, but the debate is getting more attention as a response to environmental damage and historical injustices.

#103 Justice by design

Design Lobster • 179 implied HN points • 21 Feb 22
🎨 Art & Illustration Social justice
  1. Design can be used as a tool for social justice and equity, as demonstrated by initiatives like Creative Reaction Lab and their 'Equity-Centred Community Design Field Guide.'
  2. Companies like Tony's Chocolonely are using design in their products to convey powerful messages and promote social change, like highlighting issues of slavery in the chocolate industry.
  3. Design justice involves challenging normative models and amplifying diverse voices and knowledge through design practices, as emphasized by Sasha Costanza-Chock in their book 'Design Justice.'

Policing the Cops

Diane Francis • 339 implied HN points • 03 May 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Policing in America has become very militarized, often lacking proper training and accountability. Many officers are poorly trained and some act with bias or aggression.
  2. The increase of video evidence from smartphones and body cameras is pushing for accountability in police actions. Public scrutiny is growing, and each police incident is likely to lead to protests and demands for change.
  3. To reduce police violence, America needs to focus on better training for officers, civilian oversight, and treating drug issues as health problems rather than criminal ones. There are examples in other countries that could provide a better model.

Why Is the U.S. Destroying Itself Now?

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 25 implied HN points • 30 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. The foundation of modern Western civilization has flaws that may lead to its downfall. Its focus on individualism and a disconnect from nature contributes to this decline.
  2. There is a growing divide between wealthy elites and the struggling working class, creating resentment and potential conflict. The elite may not realize the extent of this divide and the consequences it brings.
  3. As AI and technology evolve, white-collar workers may face job loss, similar to what blue-collar workers have experienced. This shift could unite different classes and spark a new movement for change.

Tuesday’s US election and why social justice ideology might not be so bad for liberal democracy

The Path Not Taken • 66 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Social justice ideology is having a big impact on the Democratic Party and its relationship with liberal democracy. It focuses on identity and the protection of marginalized groups.
  2. Surveys show that people who support social justice values also tend to support the separation of powers within government, which is a key part of liberal democracy.
  3. While there are some conflicts between social justice ideology and liberal democratic values, it also highlights the need to defend rights and fairness for all, especially in times of political tension.

It's Called "The Atlantic" Because It Belongs at the Bottom of the Ocean.

JoeWrote • 51 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. The Atlantic has shifted from its original social justice roots to cater to a wealthy audience, often reassuring them that social issues can be solved simply by talking to politicians.
  2. It is criticized for promoting a one-sided narrative about the Israel-Palestine conflict, ignoring Palestinian voices and expressing strong support for Israeli actions.
  3. Recent articles from The Atlantic have been accused of downplaying the impacts of colonialism and genocide, suggesting that these actions might not be as bad as they seem.

June 18, 2025 (Wednesday)

Letters from an American • 22 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Texas learned they were free. This was the result of a long fight for freedom, not just a gift given to them.
  2. The celebration of Juneteenth evolved over the years, highlighting key events like the Thirteenth Amendment and the right to vote for Black men. Each year, it represented progress toward equality.
  3. Today, celebrations of Juneteenth are facing pushback and reductions. It's important to remember its history and significance to ensure that the ideals of freedom and equality are upheld.

Thoughts on DEI

Logos • 19 implied HN points • 20 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Diversity is important because it brings different perspectives that can lead to better solutions and helps companies find talented individuals from various backgrounds.
  2. However, diversity can also create challenges, like communication issues and making it harder to reach agreement among team members.
  3. To improve diversity, companies should focus on hiring more entry-level candidates. This helps bring in a wider variety of talents right from the start, despite potential downsides like lower average pay for minority groups.

Reforming the DEI Reforms

Journal of Free Black Thought • 38 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. MEI stands for Merit, Economics, and Ingenuity, which aims to improve the hiring process by focusing on qualifications instead of identity. This approach encourages selecting candidates based on talent and capability.
  2. The original DEI framework emphasized diversity and inclusion but often led to perceived fairness issues and political agendas. MEI seeks to replace DEI with a more straightforward focus on meritocratic principles.
  3. Incorporating concepts like Economics and Ingenuity in MEI means prioritizing economically sound decisions and encouraging creativity in organizations. This could help recruit individuals who bring unique skills and perspectives.

What Makes Sense at This Point?

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 21 implied HN points • 29 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Finding personal peace and fulfillment can coexist with feelings of guilt about the world's suffering. It's important to acknowledge both inner happiness and external chaos.
  2. The world seems to be filled with corruption and distraction, especially among younger generations. People may feel lost while they are captivated by screens.
  3. Reflecting on one's purpose in life can bring feelings of anxiety and the desire for validation. Everyone has their own unique journey, even if it feels unconventional.

The Election Won't Save Us. What Will?

JoeWrote • 55 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Elections alone won't bring real change; they often just keep things the same. People feel stuck and frustrated when their choices don't align with their values.
  2. To create change, it's important to organize and work together. Alone, individuals feel powerless, but together, they can make a difference.
  3. Taking even small steps, like joining a union or a community group, can help build power and connections among people. Every little action counts towards making a better world.

January 19, 2025

Letters from an American • 40 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Heroism isn't about being perfect or doing grand things; it's about regular people choosing to help others, even when it's hard.
  2. Great figures in history, like Martin Luther King Jr. and Anne Frank, acted bravely in dangerous situations without seeking fame.
  3. We still have heroes today who quietly do the right thing in their everyday lives, even if we don't always see them.

📏 repro/acc?

Reboot • 11 implied HN points • 10 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Reproductive technology is rapidly advancing, bringing opportunities like artificial wombs and embryo screening that can change how we think about childbirth.
  2. There are new political discussions around reproductive tech, with different groups pushing for either conservative values or libertarian ideals, which complicates the conversation.
  3. Many women and feminists feel distracted by other issues like abortion rights, leading to a lack of focus on how reproductive tech could improve women's lives.

Gentrification as a housing problem

The Works in Progress Newsletter • 16 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Gentrification happens when higher-income people move into a neighborhood, often pushing out lower-income residents. Better housing supply can help absorb new residents without causing displacement.
  2. Rent controls might help keep some people in their homes temporarily, but they often lead to poorer living conditions and can worsen housing affordability in the long run.
  3. To balance gentrification's impacts, creating more housing options and including community voices in development decisions can make neighborhoods better for both newcomers and existing residents.

Rev. King's Other Dream: Ending Economic Injustice

Humanities in Revolt • 79 implied HN points • 01 Jun 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. believed in ending economic injustice through political-structural transformation, not just traditional charity efforts.
  2. King saw racism, militarism, and extreme materialism in the economic system as interconnected injustices requiring social transformation and a change in values.
  3. The Poor People's Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival aims to continue King's vision by demanding federal and state action to address poverty and economic inequality.

Indigenous land acknowledgements often ignore history

Critical Mass • 26 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Social justice
  1. Indigenous land acknowledgements can sometimes be simplistic and miss the complexity of history. It's important to recognize that history is not always straightforward, and we should be careful not to create myths.
  2. Some acknowledgements make strong claims about Indigenous ownership that might not be fully accurate. It's necessary to look at historical context and evidence before making those statements.
  3. We need to talk honestly about history and science related to land ownership and Indigenous rights. Celebrating cultures should not come at the cost of historical accuracy.

👊🏽 A day for transitions ...

UnfairNation by Ehsan Zaffar • 29 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. After ten years, it's time to change and grow. The newsletter started as a way to connect with friends but evolved into discussing important social issues.
  2. Today is significant as it's MLK day, a reminder of the civil rights movement. MLK's legacy inspires action against ongoing inequality.
  3. The next few years are seen as a chance to build a strong movement for change. It's about creating solutions for those who have less and making a real impact.

Please Donate to This Fundraiser for a Gaza Refugee

JoeWrote • 35 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. A fundraiser is set up to help a Gaza refugee buy food for his family. Any amount you can give will make a difference.
  2. Donations as small as $5 are encouraged, and the person organizing it verifies that the donations will go to a legitimate source.
  3. If you donate and comment on the post, you can receive three free months of premium access as a token of gratitude.

Hyperactive Righteousness Syndrome: A Cross-Ideological Affliction

Random Minds by Katherine Brodsky • 32 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social justice
  1. Both the right and the left can have a strong sense of righteousness, judging others based on their own strict moral standards.
  2. On the left, this can show up as demanding social justice and cultural correctness, where people are labeled as 'bad' for not meeting certain expectations.
  3. People often feel pressured to align with specific social issues or language rules, leading to a culture of policing others' beliefs and actions.