The Charleston Area Justice Ministry (CAJM) made a pivotal decision Monday night during their Annual Community Problems Assembly, held at the newly added Greater Saint Luke African Methodist Episcopal Church. This gathering wasn’t just another meeting—it was a testament to unity, determination, and the relentless pursuit of justice. Hundreds of community members filled the space, each bringing their unique perspectives and energy to the table, united by a shared mission for equity and fairness.
“This is a wonderful cornucopia of people who believe in goodness, mercy, and justice,” said Reverend Eduardo Curry, a dedicated CAJM member. His words captured the essence of the evening—a room buzzing with individuals committed to change. The decision at hand wasn’t a small one. The assembly debated whether to tackle a new issue, such as healthcare or housing, or to deepen their focus on their current campaigns. After careful deliberation, they chose to double down on their existing efforts, a choice reflecting both their determination and strategic focus.
A Year of Preparation and Action
Before this crucial vote, CAJM members spent months gathering insights and identifying pressing issues in the Lowcountry. Small groups met throughout the year, sharing their observations and discussing the needs of their communities. Housing, in particular, emerged as a critical concern. Reverend Curry emphasized the importance of accountability in addressing this issue, stating, “Trying to make sure we hold society accountable; Jesus said the poor will be with us always. It’s important to me as a pastor and to our congregants that we remain vigilant in a multi-cultural community.”
This year’s assembly was not just about talk—it was about action. The organization reviewed progress on their campaigns and discussed plans for the coming year, aligning their efforts to ensure impactful results.
The Power of Diversity in Decision-Making
One of CAJM’s defining strengths is its diversity, a factor that Co-President Adam Shoemaker believes is crucial to their success. “We cannot realize our aims related to the common good if we don’t organize a collective representation of what our area looks like and what the collective experiences are,” he explained. This inclusivity ensures that every campaign reflects the community’s needs and aspirations.
What’s Next for CAJM?
Sticking to their current campaigns doesn’t mean standing still. It means honing their strategies and diving deeper into vital issues such as:
- Ethical school governance
- Restorative practices
- Reducing racial bias in policing in Charleston and North Charleston police departments
- Environmental justice
- Healthcare access
- Affordable housing
These campaigns are more than just a list of goals—they’re a roadmap for systemic change. Each initiative represents a step toward a more equitable and just community.
Next month, CAJM will kick off its research phase, a critical step in turning advocacy into action. During this phase, members will break into thematic groups to tackle specific areas such as housing, education, and the environment. They’ll conduct interviews with policy experts and elected officials to identify practical solutions tailored to the Charleston area’s unique challenges.
“This is when the real work begins,” Shoemaker noted. “Research is done, and we gather the information we need to develop actionable solutions.”
Looking Ahead to Nehemiah Action
The culmination of these efforts will be the Nehemiah Action event in the spring, where CAJM will present their findings and proposed solutions to elected officials. This major gathering is a cornerstone of their advocacy strategy, designed to hold leaders accountable and push for tangible progress.
A Community United
Monday night’s decision reflects a collective resolve to stay the course and build on the foundation they’ve already laid. The energy in the room was palpable, a reminder that change is possible when a community comes together with a shared purpose.
As Reverend Curry aptly put it, “We are not asleep. We are awake.” And with that, the Charleston Area Justice Ministry moves forward, energized and ready to tackle the challenges ahead, driven by the unwavering belief that justice isn’t just an ideal—it’s a commitment.
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