Activism

Activism consists of efforts to promote, impede, direct or intervene in social, political, economic or environmental reform with the desire to make changes in society toward a perceived greater good. Forms of activism range from mandate building in a community (including writing letters to newspapers), petitioning elected officials, running or contributing to a political campaign, preferential patronage (or boycott) of businesses, and demonstrative forms of activism like rallies, street marches, strikes, sit-ins, or hunger strikes.

Types of Activism

Activism may be performed on a day-to-day basis in a wide variety of ways, including through the creation of art (artivism), computer hacking (hacktivism), or simply in how one chooses to spend their money (economic activism). For example, refusing to buy merchandise from a company as a protest against the policies of said company is a type of activism. However, the most highly visible and impactful activism often comes in the form of collective action, in which numerous individuals coordinate their actions in order to have a greater impact. Collective action that is purposeful, organized, and sustained over a period of time becomes known as a social movement.

Activism takes on a variety of forms, along a spectrum based on the level of effort and commitment the activity entails. For the most part, these activities can be thought of as direct and indirect, but essentially any activity one engages in with the intent of achieving a socio-political objective is activism. Such activities run the gamut from political violence to engaging in debates on social media.

Direct action (what most people think of when they think "activism") requires considerable commitment and effort, with participants using focused and intensive strategies to exert economic or physical force to achieve their goals. Direct action can be either violent or non-violent. Nonviolent direct action includes activities such as civil disobedience, sit-ins, strikes, and counter-economics. Violent direct action manifests as political violence, involving assault, arson, sabotage, and property destruction. Given direct action requires a great deal of effort and commitment that may expose the activist to punishment, it is best reserved for desperate circumstances, with no suitable alternatives, that require immediate change. If the activity has a focused, obvious, and immediate impact that , it is direct action.

Indirect action, on the other hand, uses established political and social procedures to achieve goals. Examples include petitioning authorities, voting, or other mainstream, legal means of social change. Rather than having an immediate, obvious impact, indirect action has a subtle impact that requires little risk or effort. The objective bring about socio-political change over a longer time frame. As such, indirect action is the preferred means of activism in most circumstances.

Methods

A few examples of activism include:

1. Organizing local meetups or events to discuss issues affecting the community and brainstorming solutions.

2. Creating an online platform (e.g., website, forum, or social media group) for community members to connect, share information, and coordinate efforts.

3. Encouraging people to volunteer with local organizations, such as food banks, shelters, or youth centers, to directly impact the community positively.

4. Hosting workshops or seminars on topics relevant to community activism, like effective communication, leadership skills, or understanding local government processes.

5. Developing partnerships with local businesses, schools, and religious institutions to expand outreach and creating a network of support.

6. Planning and executing awareness campaigns on important issues using various media, such as flyers, social media, or local newspapers.

7. Attending city council meetings or other public forums to voice concerns and advocate for change.

8. Establishing mentorship programs that pair experienced activists with newcomers to foster growth and development in the community.

9. Organizing fundraisers or donation drives to support local causes or organizations working towards positive change.

10. Celebrating successes and recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to the community through awards or public acknowledgment.

List of Activist Activities

Art Activism

1. Leaving a SwasiStone in a public place.

Direct Action

Economic Activism

Media Activism