The 2008-2009 Teresa Dease Lecture
Injustice fractures personal, social, and political relationships. Grounded in a preferential option for the oppressed, justice in the 21st century must effectively re-establish relations between those for whom injustice has created rifts. If the aim is to create a more just future for all, then this 'reconciliation' process must involve the participation of everyone affected by the injustice. This participatory act of reconciliation is crucial because it strengthens the moral and historical agency of all involved. A core component of this process of reconciliation is an in-depth dialogue based on a shared worldview and a commitment to create conditions and institutions in which no one is excluded. In this lecture, Dr. Isasi-Díaz explores the ideas that injustice fractures relationships and dialogue is the most effective means of restoring these relations. She proposes that reconciliation can become praxis, established on a biblical foundation that is about creating a more just and equitable future for all.
Ada Maria Isasi-Diaz
Born and raised in La Habana, Cuba, Ada María Isasi-Díaz is Professor of Ethics and Theology at Drew University, New Jersey. Since the 1970s she has lectured around the world on the importance of developing a prophetic theology to address social and political injustices facing poor and marginalized communities. Focusing primarily on the plight of Latina women, Dr. Isasi-Díaz is well known for her role in developing a mujerista theology, a theology that stems from the everyday lives of Latina women and their prophetic cry for liberation. She is the author of numerous articles and books, including Hispanic Women: Prophetic Voice in the Church (2005), Mujerista Theologv: A Theology for the 21st Century(1996), En La Lucha ' A Hispanic Women's Liberation Theology (1993), and La Lucha Continues ' Mujerista Theology (2004). She is writing a book on justice as an act of reconciliation rooted in care and tenderness.