A global team of journalists and researchers at the University of Southern California produced more than 100 stories about people dedicated to working for positive social changes as part of the Center for Religion and Civic Culture’s Spiritual Exemplars Project. Often underreported and unseen, spiritual impulses can move individuals and communities toward justice, equality, and compassion.
“Stories for Social Change: Spirituality in Action” is a multimedia exhibit that presents the narratives of these changemakers. It was originally presented at the USC Annenberg for Communication and Journalism, educating and inspiring 2,500 people in Fall 2023.
Watch the program from the exhibit event and reception
At the reception, guests heard from from three exemplary individuals:
- Father Greg Boyle, SJ, is founder of Homeboy Industries, the largest gang intervention, rehabilitation, and re-entry program in the world.
- Brother Chân Pháp Dung, a USC alum, is a senior Dharma teacher in the Plum Village monastic tradition founded by Vietnamese peace activist Thich Nhat Hanh.
- Sabrina Sojourner is a Shaliakh Tzibur and a chaplain. A queer Jew of color, she brings conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion into spiritual spaces.
The exhibit and event were hosted by Diane Winston, USC Annenberg Knight Chair for Media and Religion, in partnership with the USC Dornsife Center for Religion and Civic Culture, with remarks from Donald E. Miller, the project director.
Spotlight shines on spiritually engaged humanitarians in exhibit
USC News’ story about the exhibit panel and reception
Tour the exhibit:
Co-sponsors of this event include: USC School of Religion, USC Office for Religious and Spiritual Life, USC Annenberg Center on Public Diplomacy, Institute for Advanced Catholic Studies at USC.
