International Justice Mission SAU Chapter

The Battle is God's and he will see that justice is done!

By: Laniaya Alesia Hoofatt

Posted: 4/12/07

The International Justice Mission was founded in 1997 after human rights professionals witnessed prejudice by overseas missionaries and development workers. The IJM is a human rights agency that rescues victims of violence, sexual exploitation, slavery and oppression. The organization "Honors the legacy of Wilber Wilberforce by continuing to fight against slavery."

"As a school chapter, we will be raising awareness about the slave trade business over in Asia and raising money to help IJM's cause," said Samantha Epps, a sophomore majoring in social work and psychology.

The group moving to eradicate oppression states that students are essential in the fight. It has created a place where individuals can get ideas, resources and make an actual difference in the life of a Person who is suffering from injustice.

The Spring Arbor University chapter holds two pieces of scripture as its model to rid Asia of that inequality. One is James 2:26 that says, "For just as the body without the sprit is dead, so faith without works is also dead." Matthew 5:16, the other mission verse, says, " In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in Heaven."

When the need was there the church was there to come to the aid of poor, hungry, homeless and alienated. It has provided food, shelter and missionaries to meet the needs of the people. The IJM comes in when the poor have been oppressed and treated unjustly by someone more powerful.

The IJM established itself to help fill the void. This organization stands between the gap that is made between the victims who are forgotten and have no advocate.

The IJM is staffed with human rights experts, attorneys and law enforcement professionals. The experts receive referrals from non-government organizations and casework alliances, working together to bring solutions to the different concerns that face the victims of violence, slave trade and sexual abuse.

Jeremy Norwood a professor at SAU learned about IJM when he was a student. He geared his education to help those who could not help themselves while he was in law school at Syracuse University. He later applied for an internship with IJM and was awarded an internship with the organization in Huanuco, Peru. He was there for thirteen weeks working on domestic violence and sexual abuse cases.

"I was extremely impressed with the Christian atmosphere at IJM - it encompasses all that they do," said Jeremy Norwood.

IJM has a four-fold purpose.
First, being victim relief--mitigating the victim of the abuse that is currently being committed.
Second, is victim aftercare--providing access to services that help victims' transition into their new lives and encourage long-term success.
Third, perpetrator accountability--brings accountability and just consequences under the law to the specific perpetrators of the abuse.
Last, Structural prevention--Prevent the abuse from being committed against others who are also at risk.

Now is the time to raise your voice. Become involved and seriously make a difference. IJM is making it possible for those who are ready to enact change. Jeremy Norwood and Anna Wilkinson are sponsoring the SAU chapter of the IJM, along with students Samantha Epp and Rebecca Kelch.