I feel like the word 'activism' can scare people. It can be a pretty intense word that often comes with negative connotations. So the first thing I want do is share the definition.
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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.
Basically it boils down to creating change in your own life and encouraging others to do the same. Now, that's not so scary, is it?
I'm sure a lot of us are activists in our own lives without really calling it that.
If you're looking for a few topic ideas: climate change, plastic pollution, animal rights, social justice, and the list goes on and on.
I want to encourage you to pick a topic that you're passionate about and find ways to share that message with your community.
1. Learn:
You don't have to be an expert on a topic to want to improve it. However, you do have to be willing to learn. So, get ready to spend some time learning about the issues.
2. Plug-in:
You are most likely not the first person who wants to tackle these issues so I encourage you to find a local group that's addressing them. Go to their meetings. Listen to what they're working on, and learn how to be an effective part of the group.
3. Use the power of social media:
A recent study found that social media plays a significant role in activism. It's vital for turning a cause into a movement.
In this post, you can read more about using social media for social good.
4. Put yourself out there:
Here's the scary part. You've got to put yourself out there and try something big! One of the best ways to create a connection and to use social media is to walk your audience through doing something step-by-step.
The biggest barrier for most people is the 'HOW' so through your platform/social media presence you can break it down and SHOW people how easy it is.
Here's a list of 8 things you can do to help share your cause with your community.
4. Show them how to cook delicious in-season produce from the farmers market without creating food waste.
5. Teach others how to compost.
6. Email and write your local politicians / Join the Citizens Climate Lobby or local Sierra Club
7. Email, write and talk to local businesses about their packaging.
8. Petition city council