The Salvation Army
Media Release

Salvation Army conference to examine perspectives on freedom

Wellington, 1 April 2008 – A Salvation Army conference bringing together social justice advocates from around New Zealand and overseas will discuss topics such as how to free people from injustice and poverty.

About 270 people are expected to attend the two-day Just Action ‘08 conference, organised by The Salvation Army’s Social Policy and Parliamentary Unit, which will run in Dunedin between 2-3 April.

International speakers include the New York-based head of The Salvation Army’s International Social Justice Commission Commissioner Christine MacMillan and Captain Danielle Strickland who will share her experience of working on the streets of Toronto.

Local speakers include Victoria University Professor Jonathan Boston talking on climate change and Christian responsibility and Major Campbell Roberts who will look at the future of freedom and justice.

The conference also includes a number of workshops on the themes of ‘freedom from injustice’, ‘freedom from poverty’, ‘freedom to change the world’, and ‘freedom to make change happen’. A range of perspectives will be taken on issues, including theological, biblical, local and global action, social policy, and personal stories.

Salvation Army Social Policy and Parliamentary Unit Director, Major Campbell Roberts, says that the conference provides a timely opportunity for people working in the social justice sector to come together.

‘It’s a chance not only to hear from speakers knowledgeable in their specialist areas, but also for delegates to share experiences and get practical ideas.

‘The conference is all about contributing to a momentum in which organizations such as The Salvation Army are working in practical ways to care for people, transform lives, and reform society so that the world becomes a better place.’  

The Just Action ’08 conference will be immediately followed by the Freedom Congress (4-6 April), also in Dunedin, which will bring together up to a thousand Salvationists and others. The Freedom Congress will also include celebrations of The Salvation Army’s 125 years of service to the New Zealand community.  

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