Before you dive into Decoding Injustice, work with your group to create a problem map that unpacks your focus issue in more depth. Here are some different templates:
-
Problem Tree (Stories for Impact)
-
Causes Diagram (by Mobilisation Lab, The Commons Social Change Library)
-
Iceberg (by Mobilisation Lab, The Commons Social Change Library)
If there is another tool you are already familiar with, you're welcome to use that instead.
Tips and tricks
Focusing on problems turns our attention to the things that can, and need to, change. If we don’t spend time framing problems, we:
-
Focus on ‘solving’ the wrong problems
-
Keep using ‘solutions’ that aren’t working
-
Get stuck with a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach
A problem map creates a visual representation of a problem, which can help us “see” it differently and build a shared understanding of its nature and effects. With this understanding, we can better define solutions.
There is no one right or wrong way to draw a problem map. But, in general, the more specific you are, the more valuable the map is in uncovering the hidden causes underneath the problem. Use the prompt questions in the templates to help you drill down into the different dimensions of the problem.
It is also essential to get different perspectives on the problem. Take some time to get input from others in your community on the problem. Share the draft map with a few people and ask for feedback.
Post Problem Map Activity
Ask your group to reflect on the process of creating the problem map. How did it help analyze the problem? What might make it more helpful to others in your community?
You are now ready to explore how our economies affect human rights