The much anticipated 2nd edition of "From Thought to Action: Developing a Social Justice Orientation" is a book that empowers readers to successfully navigate their social justice journeys and channel their increased consciousness into direct action. The book provides robust historic, cultural, and social contexts, assists readers in managing the discomfort that often accompanies raised consciousness, and offers step-by-step instructions for initiating social justice campaigns and projects.   The text examines various types of direct action, the art of dialoguing through disagreement, the risks and rewards associated with activism, the importance of effective leadership and collaboration, and activism in the wake of significant social and political issues, including police brutality and the COVID-19 pandemic. Readers learn about the challenges and successes of activists past and present, and are encouraged to recognize the struggles and achievements that define their own journeys.   This expanded, responsive second edition includes a new chapter on allyship, QR codes, and an appendix related to speech preparation and delivery. It features more global examples of activism, as well as additional experiences from Asian American communities within the United States. Table of Contents for the 2nd edition: Preface What is Social Justice Activism? 1. Raised by Racists and 1980's Pop Culture 2. The Language of Experienced Activists 3. Choosing a Cause and Taking Direct Action 4. Risks and Rewards of Social Justice Activism    Stories of Activists Past and Present 5. Social Justice During the 19th Century in the United States 6. Social Justice During the 20th Century in the United States 7. Personal Turning Points for Social Justice Activists Communication and Community 8. Acting in Allyship 9. Convincing Others: Considerations for Dialogue 10. Leadership Committed to Social Justice 11. Working in Groups and Building Coalitions   Appendix: Organizing and Delivering Speeches   Glossary of Terms Index "I have been anticipating this second edition since I used the first edition of this book in my Social Justice communication course. Dr. Sanford writes in an engaging style that students can relate to, offers compelling narratives from both the author's personal experiences with social justice activism and historical perspectives, and provides clear action steps that students can take in their own journeys in social justice activism. My students enjoyed the first edition, particularly the chapters on taking action and engaging in dialogue with others. A wonderful resource for any course focused on social justice activism." ~ Irene Grau, Lecturer of Communication, California State University, Los Angeles "From Thought to Action is an adaptable guide for those new to social change, and those looking to refine their voice in movements they are already active in. What separates this book from others is that it is not about one movement, or even one perspective. Instead, it is an essential tool for those who want to learn how to communicate for effectively and build systems of compassion and meaningful change. With opportunities for personal reflection, and activities to build the skills necessary to discussing topics that can be socially charged, this book should be in libraries both personal and academic." ~ Michelle Dusseau, Associate Lecturer of Communication, University of Central Florida "The title of Dr. Amy Aldridge Sanford's book, From Thought to Action, has become a personal mantra in the development of my own social justice orientation. As a "forever student" of Amy's, I am proud to share her text in my "Social Justice Literacies" class because it serves as an honest and reflective exemplar of how to embark on the steps of embracing one's personal history. Her book resembles more of a guidebook than a textbook in its intentional review of history, leadership, and the risks/rewards of social justice activism. She inspires action beyond just its reading." ~ Lara Searcy, Associate Professor of English, Northeastern State University "Aldridge Sanford's book not only takes students on social justice journey, but also provides a framework to help 'people manage the discomfort that accompanies a newly raised social justice consciousness' (p. xiv). At a time when many students are reflecting critically on what they can do to be better social justice activists, this book makes a commitment to harnessing their passion. It is organized to not only provide students with a historic, cultural, and societal background, but also to create a framework toward taking meaningful action." ~ Tim McKenna-Buchanan, Associate Professor of Communication Studies & Director of Honors Program, Manchester University "[Sanford] uses her past experiences to reach people who were once like her and to present them with the ability to embrace a social justice orientation. However, this book is not only for white students but for students