Community Assets
What is an asset-based approach to community development?
Focusing on the strengths, skills, and resources that already exist within a community rather than its problems or deficiencies.
What does simultaneity mean in the context of social justice?
Recognizing that different people may experience or interpret the same situation in different ways.
What is privilege?
Unearned advantages given to certain groups based on social identities such as race, gender, or class.
Who created the Cycle of Socialization model discussed in class?
Bobbie Harro.
A campus builds a wheelchair ramp for accessibility. Which social justice principle does this reflect?
Equity and inclusion.
Name one type of community capital from the Community Capitals Framework.
Examples: Social, Cultural, Human, Financial, Natural, Built, or Political capital.
Why is it important to listen to multiple perspectives when discussing social justice issues?
Because people’s experiences are shaped by identity, history, and social structures.
Give one example of structural privilege.
Examples: easier access to education, wealth, or professional networks.
What is the “waking up” stage in the Cycle of Liberation?
The moment when someone begins to recognize injustice or oppression.
A community organization highlights local talents and networks when solving problems. What approach are they using?
An asset-based approach.
Why is social capital important for communities?
It builds trust, relationships, and networks that allow people to work together to solve problems.
Two students experience the same classroom policy differently. One sees it as fair, while another feels disadvantaged. What concept does this illustrate?
Simultaneity or multiple perspectives.
What does systemic inequality mean?
Inequality that is built into institutions, policies, and social systems.
What role do institutions play in the Cycle of Socialization?
They reinforce social norms and inequalities through rules, policies, and expectations.
Two neighborhoods receive the same funding, but one already has more infrastructure. What concept does this highlight?
Inequality in starting conditions or structural inequality.
Give an example of how cultural knowledge can be considered a community asset.
Shared traditions, languages, or cultural practices can strengthen identity, connection, and resilience within a community.
How can hearing multiple perspectives strengthen problem solving?
It helps reveal hidden barriers and allows more inclusive and effective solutions.
Why might someone not recognize their own privilege?
Because advantages often feel normal to those who have them.
What is one step people can take to break the cycle of oppression?
Educating themselves, challenging bias, or supporting marginalized communities.
Students organize a group discussion where people from different backgrounds share experiences about discrimination. What concept does this promote?
Understanding multiple perspectives and community dialogue.
How can focusing only on deficits harm communities?
It can reinforce stereotypes, overlook strengths, and discourage community participation and empowerment.
Why might people disagree about whether something is unjust?
Because their experiences with privilege, discrimination, and opportunity differ.
How can recognizing privilege contribute to social justice?
It allows individuals to understand inequality and work toward fairer systems.
Why is community building important in the Cycle of Liberation?
Because social change requires collective action rather than individual effort.
A policy is designed without consulting the communities it affects. Why is this problematic from a social justice perspective?
It ignores lived experiences and prevents equitable participation in decision-making.