A Just Beginning for All: A Series of Messages on Education from the Bishops of Michigan

Educational Justice for All

From childhood, most of us have proudly recited the Pledge of Allegiance with its concluding, hopeful words, “one nation—under God—indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” Almost 225 years ago, our nation was conceived and came to birth as a place wherein all people could exercise their basic human rights in an atmosphere of freedom. Among these rights is equal access to educational opportunities and resources so that each person can fully develop his or her potential. Our nation’s public school system was established to defend and promote quality education for all persons. It has provided generations of young people with the intellectual and social skills needed for just employment in the marketplace and success in higher education and the professions. Read more…

Shaping Our Future

For all of us, the future is a source of both hope and anxiety. Our concern about the unknown future, its risks and possibilities, actually shapes who we are. As Christians, we believe that we are not passive before the forces around us; in fact, we have the power and responsibility to shape the future—for ourselves, our own children, and generations to come. Read more…

Educational Choice is a Civil Right

America is often called “the land of opportunity” for all people. In point-of-fact, however, not all people have been able to enjoy the same opportunities for life, liberty, and pursuit of justice. In the two hundred and twenty-four years of our nation’s history, by dialogue and sometimes through civil strife, we have redefined and clarified what it means to provide justice for all… to be fully invested as citizens. Read more…