In this course we will explore connections between ecological sustainability and social justice. We will ask how we, as change-seekers of all backgrounds and experiences, can work together to build communities that better serve human and ecological needs. Students will work closely with one another in hands-on learning communities, and will come away with a new set of tools and practices for leading effective change. This course is centered around two core principles (social justice and sustainability) and one guiding philosophy (that the issues we face and our efforts to address them are all deeply interconnected). In the first half of the course, we will seek connections between issues of justice--including climate, environmental, racial, gender, queer, indigenous, socio-economic justice, and more--and will look for connections in the movements that seek to address these issues. Each of us has a unique justice lens, and all are encouraged to bring their own perspectives and passions to the discussion. The second half of the course explores practices for leading change from an individual to a societal level, and each class seeks to add new tools for collaborating, leading, and organizing others in change efforts. Key Concepts: Social Justice, Sustainability, Systems Thinking, Social Permaculture, Reflective Practice, Collaborative Leadership, Intersectionality, Community Empowerment, Social Constructionist Change Model We will meet on Wednesday evenings from 6-8PM each week from June 29th to August 31st.