Sometimes it feels like there’s only one way to do justice.
Certain philosophies often dominate the narrative, leaving many of us feeling left in the dust. If we can’t make public proclamations, if we can’t shout into a microphone, if we can’t stand up for the wrongs of the world in one particular way, then we’re doing it wrong.
But singular ways of engagement shouldn’t be the only way to engage, especially when it comes to issues of justice.
When Dorcas Cheng-Tozun’s Social Justice for the Sensitive Soul hit shelves last month, I was so excited for the reception it received. No doubt, the world needs Dorcas’s words and message; no doubt, Dorcas is the one to write it.
Here’s what I said in an endorsement:
Dorcas Cheng-Tozun has created a book for the rest of us: a book for those whose hearts are on the line and who need a different way forward when it comes to confronting injustice, oppression, and hatred. Social Justice for the Sensitive Soul has filled a void I didn’t know existed, but if Ghandi can learn how to leverage his innate sensitivity for good, then maybe I can too.
Enjoy this interview with her today!
Cara Meredith: How are you coloring outside of the lines, all over again, when it comes to your writing and this book in particular?
Dorcas Cheng-Tozun: This book is very personal, in that it addresses a question I have been wrestling with for over two decades: How do sensitive individuals like me engage in social justice work in sustainable and meaningful ways? The typical categories we have for social activists—those who march and protest and debate and confront—don’t allow space for those of us who prefer to engage in quieter, gentler ways.
Yet, as I was researching this book, I found that every social movement has benefitted from the gifts and efforts of those we don’t often hear about—accountants and record keepers, mentors and engineers, artists and researchers, and many more. For true and lasting social change to happen, we need people of all temperaments and talents to be welcomed and integrated into social movements, just as they are.
I hope that Social Justice for the Sensitive Soul helps expand the definition of what it means to advocate for social change, and helps spark ideas of creative ways that sensitive souls can engage in activism.
Cara Meredith: Putting ourselves out there when it comes to storytelling always feels a little scary. How was publishing scary and perhaps even vulnerable for you?
Dorcas Cheng-Tozun: This is my third book, but I’ve had a pretty mixed experience with publishing. I previously had such a poor experience with a publisher that I questioned if I ever wanted to publish a book again. So, when Broadleaf approached me about possibly publishing with them, I wasn’t sure I wanted to put myself through the process once more. But they have been a delight to work with, and I’m so glad that this book has the chance to be out in the world.
In addition, there is so much of my heart in this book. I lay a lot out there in terms of my own struggles, questions, and hopes without knowing how others will respond. Some activists can be a bit unforgiving when it comes to even being gently asked to consider things a different way, so there is the very real possibility that some will not respond well to the book, which can’t help but feel personal (especially for us sensitives!).
Cara Meredith: What is your heart, your intention, the real push behind writing this book?
Dorcas Cheng-Tozun: I have heard from many people who want to engage in social justice work and yet don’t know how to approach it. They may find the idea of protesting or speaking at a city council meeting intimidating. They may not be comfortable with the hostile, confrontational forms of advocacy that we most often see on the news or on social media. They may feel like they don’t have the time or energy to give everything they’ve got to a cause, which is what many activists expect. So, they feel paralyzed.
My hope is that readers will see that there are many ways to approach social justice work. You can pursue activities that match your passions and interests while also supporting an important cause. You can engage when and where you have margin in your life to do so, and you can take a step back when you need to. You can pursue justice in kind, gentle, and compassionate ways that do not require confrontation. People who care about equity and human dignity have tried to move the needle on social progress in a myriad of ways in the past, and they continue to do so today. The main limitation is our own imaginations. If we can imagine a different way of approaching social activism, then we can do it.
Cara Meredith: Okay. We talk so much about audience when it comes to book-writing, but what did you learn about yourself along the way?
Dorcas Cheng-Tozun: While I love the craft of writing, putting together this book made me realize that I may love learning something new even more. Being a writer gives me so many opportunities to explore new topics, learn about new people, see things from a new angle. And that kind of enthralls me.
Cara Meredith: Anything else from your ordinary, everyday life you want to share with us?
Dorcas Cheng-Tozun:Even in the process of launching this book, I experienced some great joys and sorrows, including graduations and the loss of beloved family members. As challenging as it’s been, I’ve also been grateful for the ongoing reminder that the people in our lives are ultimately what matter most—far more than any book or other career opportunity.
P.S. I love this book so much I’m giving away a copy of it over my Instagram page: head over there to win a copy of Social Justice for the Sensitive Soul.
P.P.S. July hit, in all its summertime beauty and glory. And, as tends to happen every year, I am tired in return. Perhaps like you, I start to retreat more and more from screens and social media — this, of course, is necessary and normal. To me, not knowing what to write is usually a sign that I need a little break, so I’m taking a break for the most part and not worrying about it for all the rest of the parts. See you soon!
I am so glad to learn about Dorcas Cheng-Tozun's work - thank you! and I loved what you said about taking a break! "I’m taking a break for the most part and not worrying about it for all the rest of the parts." Good for you and thanks for modeling self care!