FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Glossary
Here’s an explanation of some of the unique language, values, and movement-building concepts we use often.
You can find our Frequently Asked Questions below!
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Put simply, conscienticized means “critically conscious to systemic oppression.”
The English term “conscientization” comes from the French word conscienciser, which Frantz Fanon used in his 1952 book Black Skins, White Masks. In 1970, Brazilian educator, activist, and theorist Paulo Freire popularized the Portuguese term conscientização, meaning “critical consciousness” and “consciousness raising,” in his book Pedagogy of the Oppressed. Freire showed how conscientization enables marginalized and oppressed peoples to gain a deep, critical understanding of systemic structures and oppression. With this critical consciousness, people can take action to create a new world free from those oppressive structures.
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The “Kin-dom” of God describes a radical vision of the world we are working to build.
Coined by Sister Georgene Wilson, O.S.F and later introduced into public discourse by mujerista feminist, Ada Maria Isasi-Diaz, the “Kin-dom” of God is a radical vision and statement of the world we are working to build. Jesus used the “Kingdom of God” to describe an alternative kingdom opposite of the oppressive regime of the Roman Empire. Jesus was describing a world rooted in kin-ship, equal distribution of resources and justice for the most marginalized.
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Mística is a core spiritual practice of CSPL, developed by the Brazilian Landless Workers Movement (MST). Find it’s history and rich meaning here.
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Liberating formation is leadership development rooted in Catholic and Christian liberatory traditions, popular education, and critical consciousness. We believe strong, spiritually grounded leaders are essential to building strong movements and institutions. Learn more here!
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Any theory, action, or effort contributing and related to bringing justice, liberation and full humanization in the world is described as “liberative.”
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“Grassroots” work is community-led change from within.
Rather than taking a top-down approach, grassroots organizations and movements are rooted in a bottom-up approach in which residents, organic leaders and people at the local level who are most impacted by systemic injustices are the central protagonists who inform, guide, sustain and drive the organization’s mission and work. Grassroots organizations center democratic values and practices such as participatory decision-making, shared leadership, engaged listening, and by taking collective responsibility for their communities.
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To be “spiritually-rooted” is to be engaged in an active way of life and set of spiritual practices that fosters a deep connection to God, to oneself, to others and to Mother Nature and that brings deeper awareness of our interconnectedness and co-responsibility for one another.
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It’s an approach to organizing that draws from the spiritual wisdom, stories, and moral vision of faith traditions. It means building power not only to win justice, but also to nurture hope, courage, and joy in the struggle.
Frequently Asked Questions
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CSPL is a faith-rooted community organization committed to transforming society through justice, liberation, and deep spiritual formation. We bring together people of faith and conscience — across parishes, congregations, and community groups — to build collective power for racial, economic, social, and environmental justice.
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Our work is deeply rooted in Maywood, Proviso, and Melrose Park in Chicago’s Western Suburbs, and in communities across the city of Chicago.
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Visit our Resource Library, sign up for our newsletter, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn to find digital resources and calls to action.
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We believe faith is not just a private belief but a public commitment to love our neighbor and work for the common good. Catholic Social Teaching calls us to protect human dignity, care for creation, and stand with the marginalized. Our organizing flows from prayer, discernment, and the example of Jesus’ ministry.
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We are rooted in Catholic tradition and values but work ecumenically and in solidarity with people of all faiths and none. Our members and partners include Catholics, Christians, and people of diverse spiritual and cultural backgrounds.
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Our coalition is made up of parishes, congregations, worker cooperatives, universities, community-based organizations, and individuals who share our commitment to justice and liberation.
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We organize around racial, economic, social, and environmental justice — including immigrant rights, housing, climate justice, economic dignity, and police accountability. We focus on issues identified and led by impacted communities.
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Through a process of deep listening, relationship-building, and collective discernment with our members. Campaigns are grounded in the lived experiences of our community and guided by our faith values.
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You can join our campaigns, attend our trainings, participate in leadership formation, or connect your parish, school, or organization to our coalition. Start by signing up for our email list or coming to an upcoming event.
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Not at all. While our roots are Catholic and Christian, our doors are open to anyone committed to justice, equity, and the dignity of all people.
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Yes! We regularly welcome volunteers and offer internships for students and emerging leaders. Reach out to learn more about current opportunities.
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Contact us to learn about our membership process. We’ll meet to explore shared values, vision, and commitments, and to see how we can act together for the common good.
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We offer leadership trainings, theological formation, campaign strategy sessions, and issue-based workshops - all rooted in popular education and faith. Our Resource Library contains the materials from many of our past workshops and trainings!
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Reach out through our contact form or email us with your request. We’ll work with you to customize a presentation or workshop for your community.
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Subscribe to our newsletter, follow us on social media, or check our events page regularly.
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