Drawing Upon Our Roots and Charism to Address Climate Change and Build Bridges of Dialogue in Addressing Human Rights and Achieving an Integral Ecology

Although sustainability and human rights are interconnected expressions of Catholic social teaching, the fields and praxis have developed independently. Human rights and other justice issues are rooted in the humanities and social sciences. The idea of sustainability has roots in the humanities and social sciences, but also in natural science and engineering. While sustainability research by scientists and engineers receives support, it is lacking for consideration of human rights and justice concerns, largely because these are viewed as advocacy. More recently, the intersection of these areas, particularly in the examination of the impacts of global climate change, has provided an opportunity for unification, especially when human stories lend empathy to observations, provide motivation to action, and allow technical expertise to help alleviate injustice.

Faith-based organizations are positioned to be bridge-builders by inviting the expertise of environmental scientists in educational programs. Pope Francis’ Laudato Si' received warm reception by numerous scientific organizations, and its call for all fields to work towards an integral ecology through dialogue is an impetus for interconnection. The longstanding tradition of Catholic institutions in addressing social concerns and the integration inherent in Catholic intellectual tradition invite opportunities for the integration of divergent fields of knowledge in the practices of sustainability and human rights.

As a Catholic and Marianist institution, the University of Dayton draws on its founding charism by seeing all as members of one global family and by extending the concept of community from people to ecosystems. We offer opportunities to engage in dialogues among expert panelists, a diverse campus, and the local community to explore justice issues like hunger, environmental racism, and peace. Applying the spiritualities, vision, and behavior of the founders of our religious institutions to today’s needs can help us to educate, act, and advocate for an integral ecological future together.