The Power of Collective Action: Lisa Abbott Guides Union Students on Quest for Change

Frank Osborne • April 24, 2024
Lisa Abbott

This week, Union students, faculty, and staff were honored to have a Leadership Conference with Lisa Abbott, a community organizer in the heart of Eastern Kentucky, who acts as a beacon of hope for racial, environmental and economic justice. Her efforts throughout her journey show that even the smallest acts of compassion can make a significant difference in the fight against injustice. With over three decades of leadership experience with the grassroots community organization Kentuckians For The Commonwealth, Abbott is currently a Senior Fellow at the JPB Foundation where she aims to strengthen multi-racial democracy in the United States.


Guided by three central ideas, Abbott’s first key point was that “what you do matters.” Drawing inspiration from the motto of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, she highlighted how the power of all individual actions effect meaningful change. Challenging the notion that systemic injustices are too vast to overcome, she urged that we should all adopt an “as if” mindset - to act as if all of our actions truly matter. By collectively embracing this perspective, we can act more effectively as a united force for justice.

“We are here on earth to see each other through the journey,” Abbott said. She emphasized the importance of building meaningful two-sided relationships and that by practicing solidarity within the pursuit for justice, we can provide mutual support and guidance for each other.


Abbott stressed the necessity of collective action, explaining that through collective power, we can more effectively build coalitions to effect systemic change. By understanding how power operates and leveraging it strategically, she believes that communities can drive meaningful progress.


As she continues her work as a community organizer, Abbott serves as a reminder that every act of compassion and every moment of solidarity contributes to a larger movement of justice. Through her unwavering commitment and steadfast belief in the power of collective action, she inspires others to join the fight for a more compassionate world. Lisa’s visit is the fourth in ULead’s monthly student leadership training series, featuring speakers from Kentucky and surrounding areas.


A joint project of the Spiritual Life & Justice Initiatives program, Athletics, and Student Development, ULead 360 focuses on developing emerging leaders in the areas of student development, introspective spirituality, vocational exploration, social justice, and global citizenship. Each speaker shares practical leadership advice and aims to inspire Union’s next generation of leaders. Everyone on campus is welcome, and student leaders are especially encouraged to attend.


For more information about ULead 360 or the Spiritual Life & Justice Initiatives program, contact College Minister & Executive Director of Spiritual Life & Social Justice Initiatives, the Rev. David Miller at (606)546-1291 or dkmiller@unionky.edu. 

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