What does "social justice" refer to within civil rights?

The term "social justice" is fundamentally concerned with ensuring that all individuals, particularly those from marginalized or disadvantaged groups, have fair access to rights, opportunities, and resources within society. It emphasizes the importance of addressing historical and systemic inequalities that affect these groups. This concept seeks to create a society where everyone has equitable treatment and the ability to participate fully in civic life, regardless of their background.

The focus on marginalized groups is essential in this definition because these communities often face barriers that prevent them from achieving full equality. Social justice advocates work towards dismantling these barriers and promoting policies that foster inclusivity and fairness.

In contrast, the other options focus on narrower or different aspects that do not encapsulate the full meaning of social justice. For instance, the pursuit of benefits for affluent communities does not align with the core principles of social justice, which seeks to uplift all, particularly the disadvantaged. Likewise, while promoting social welfare programs can be part of broader social justice objectives, it is not solely defined by them. Similarly, regulating protests and public gatherings pertains more to public order and safety rather than the underlying goal of achieving social equity and justice.