Social media is an effective tool for expressing viewpoints on issues. If there is an openness to dialogue and listening to the other, solutions and further options for consideration can be a way forward. The following video highlights the proper uses of social media, Twitter and FaceBook in particular, in activism. The first step is to discern whether or not one should become involved in activism. If so, what is the rationale and emotional base? Will one reflect through the lens of the Gospel and Catholic Social Teaching (a body of literature few know exists), or from other ground for effective criticism? Further questions need to be asked and answered. This video will at least point one into a direction to begin the process.

http://www.catholicwebsolutions.com/2017/03/07/social-action-on-social-media/

During the month of March we remember the women and their struggles for justice in the world. The UN Conference on the Status of Women (CSW) will begin next week to discuss and raise awareness of issues impacting women. Ann Garrido from CelebrationPublications.org writes in the March 2017 edition of Celebration the historical backdrop behind the March 8 International Women's Day.

International Women's Day has its roots in the women's suffrage movement for women in the U.S., Russia and Europe in the early 1900's.  The March 8th date was established in 1917 when Russian women, against the backdrop of World War I, chose to protest and strike for "Bread and Peace." The day was first observed by the United Nations in 1975 during the International Women's Year. Its purpose is to draw attention to the gender inequalities that persist between men and women in terms of educational access, working conditions, pay and fundamental human rights, while at the same time celebrating the contributions women have made.