8th Day Center for Justice records

Historical Note

Spurred by a call from the Urban Apostolate of Sisters in Chicago for a center for peace and justice in the city, six Catholic religious communities founded the 8th Day Center for Justice in 1974. These six communities included the Sisters of Mercy, Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Dominicans, Adrian Dominicans, Sisters of Providence, and Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. The founders chose the name 8th Day Center for Justice from the biblical concept of the seven days of creation. The “8th Day” reflects the belief that creation is still in progress and humans are responsible for shaping their own world. The founders of 8th Day Center envisioned a dual approach to social justice action, directing efforts toward the involved religious communities as well as government and other civic organizations. That focus has expanded to include the media, service organizations, community action groups, and the public in general. Through detailed research of social justice issues and involvement with other social justice and community organizations and groups, 8th Day Center raises awareness about these issues and works to enact effective change.