The Power of Proximity

We can see evidence of injustice all around us, whether in continuing incidents of racial inequality or in the systemic forces that disenfranchise people and perpetuate poverty. It's important to learn about the world's inequities and to be a voice for the voiceless any way we can. But in an age of hashtag and armchair activism, merely raising awareness about injustice is not enough.Michelle Warren knows what is needed. She and her family have chosen to live in communities where they are 'proximate to the pain of the poor.' This makes all the difference in facing and overcoming injustice. When we build relationships where we live, we discover the complexities of standing with the vulnerable and the commitment needed for long-term change.Proximity changes our perspective, compels our response, and keeps us committed to the journey of pursuing justice for all. Move beyond awareness and experience the power of proximity.

Michelle Warren is the advocacy and strategic engagement director for the Christian Community Development Association. She is an immigration, education and human service policy specialist and is an adjunct faculty member at Denver Seminary. With over twenty years' experience working in Christian community development, Michelle is a part of the national Evangelical Immigration Table and helps consult for the National Immigration Forum, and is a founding staff member of Open Door Ministries, a large community development corporation. She earned her bachelor's degree from Cedarville University and later earned her master's in public administration from the University of Colorado. She and her family live in an immigrant neighborhood in Denver.