NOTRE DAME BELMONT
Social Justice Concentration
The Social Justice Concentration empowers students to examine some of the most complex issues related to race, gender, sexuality and more. Students learn critical skills to both be and lead the change to improve circumstances for marginalized communities. Teaching bold leadership skills, students prepare to effectively advocate for human rights in the context of our ever-changing world.
Social Justice Module Students Develop:
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Proficiency in writing, interpersonal communication and research
- Dexterity in the power of persuasion
- Prowess in public speaking
- Competence in active listening skills
- The ability to lead with empathy
Who is a Social Justice Tiger?
A Social Justice Tiger has great empathy for others and knows that the world has the potential to become a more peaceful and inclusive place. Learning the complex needs of others, a Social Justice Tiger is not afraid to stand up for what’s right, and craft innovative solutions to benefit those in need. Having great awareness of the “noise” taking place in politics and beyond, a Social Justice Tiger takes a strategic, ethical and methodical approach towards creating positive change.
Social Justice Curriculum
If you are a rising sophomore interested in NDB’s Arts Concentration, please keep the requirements below in mind for planning purposes.
Additional Program Experiences
- Independent Experiences: Completion of at least three independent Social Justice-focused experiences outside of NDB
- Academic Experiences: Attendance at three Social Justice-focused academic lectures, conferences or workshops
- Co-curricular Experiences: Sustained participation in NDB co-curricular activities with a Social Justice focus during the junior and senior years
Independent Experiences: Completion of at least three independent Social Justice-focused experiences outside of NDB
Academic Experiences: Attendance at three Social Justice-focused academic lectures, conferences or workshops
Co-curricular Experiences: Sustained participation in NDB co-curricular activities with a Social Justice focus during the junior and senior years
Hallmarks in Action Board (HIA)
HIA is a leadership group that inspires and creates opportunities for our campus to carry out the Notre Dame Hallmarks. Students on this board take leadership roles and are trained in planning and leading retreats, public speaking through reflection and prayer, planning community service and social justice events. Students of all cultures, faiths, spiritual paths and traditions participate.
Award-Winning Mock Trial Team
Students participate in a simulated criminal trial while playing the roles of witnesses who must know the facts of their witness statement, trial attorneys who must prepare direct and cross-examination questions, and pretrial attorneys who argue constitutional issues relevant to the trial and even the court bailiff. Using the official courthouse in Redwood City, students get as authentic a trial experience as possible.
AP Government Mock Congress
AP Government students conduct a Mock Congress where bills are reviewed and complex floor debates are facilitated. The Mock Speaker of the House facilitates Congress, and representatives speak on behalf of their respective mock party. Students propose amendments to find an agreement across parties for the greater good.
Tigers Interview Senator Becker as Part of the Tigers Vote Project
Tigers from the National Honors Society (NHS) launched the Tigers Vote Project this year, an initiative to build student understanding of how our government and elections work. Over the course of two months leading up to the national presidential election and local elections, Tigers sent weekly communications to the student body including newsletters and videos.
The Tigers Vote Project representatives, in partnership with Notre Dame Belmont's Journalism program and Tiger TV, were able to sit down with State Senator Josh Becker to discuss items including the legislature's annual calendar, issues specific to the SF Peninsula, voting and democracy, lowering the voting age, culture and self-censorship, the Phones-Free School Act and advice for the next generation of voters.
Career Examples:
- Child Welfare Advocate
- Lobbyist for LGBTQ+ rights
- Social Worker
- Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
- Peace Corp Project Manager
- Teacher
- Politician
- Attorney/Lawyer