Miles Run This Week: 49 – Marathon in NYC!

from Soulforce board member, Maru Gonzalez

On November 4th, I will have the privilege of running 26.2 miles for social justice in the New York City Marathon to raise money for Soulforce. With 47,000+ runners from around the globe and more than 2 million spectators, the New York City marathon is the largest in the world.

An event of such magnitude provides a unique opportunity to raise money for and create awareness about Soulforce, an organization that has been instrumental in shaping the activist and person I am today.

And because Soulforce represents solidarity, I know that I won’t have to run—or train—alone…which is fitting because this race isn’t about me. It’s not about competition or achieving a personal record. This marathon is about giving back to an organization that has given me so much and creating awareness about Soulforce’s commitment to young adult activism and intersectional justice.

Even on my training runs, I feel that there is a greater force carrying me through and it is embedded in a vision of social justice and beloved community for all people that—because of Soulforce—I know is possible. It is a vision that rests in the knowledge that when we work together—rooted in a common purpose and solidified in solidarity—there is no obstacle we can’t overcome. The finish line, however elusive and distant it may seem, is within reach so long as we recognize the beauty of our shared humanity and “run” together—side by side and mile by mile—toward a more just world.

I look forward to being part of that journey with you!