If you’re reading Because Action, then chances are you’re determined to make the world a better place. There’s probably a particular cause you care deeply about; your friends and family have lost count of how many times they’ve heard you discuss this issue with as much passion as one might describe a new crush.
But the idea of translating your passion into action can be overwhelming, especially if you’ve never organized an event before.
One of the most important things to remember as an activist is that you cannot change the world alone, and so it is crucial to seek help from experienced grassroots mobilizers. Many of the most successful human rights, social justice, and environmental campaigns are also eager to share tips with aspiring activists.
Whether your cause is a call for climate justice in Copenhagen this December, or to put an end to violence against women in the Congo, the following tips from some of the country’s most prominent organizations might help you get started.
Plan a First Event (but keep it simple)
From the Save Darfur Organize Your Community Guide
You’ll need allies if you want to make an impact. Forming a group with regular, committed members is one of the best ways to keep like-minded folks engaged in an issue. Save Darfur recommends hosting a fun event as a way to create interest and support for your budding group. But you don’t need to max out your credit card planning a formal dinner party. Save Darfur recommends holding a film screening in a public venue, such as your local library.
For more ideas from Save Darfur and to download a pdf sheet with event hosting tips, visit http://www.savedarfur.org/pages/organize_your_community.
Demonstrate
From the PETA Action Center
Coordinating a demonstration is a daunting idea, but the PETA Action Center breaks down the major tasks you will need to consider in order to successfully hold a day of action.
These tasks include choosing a location and determining whether or not you will need a permit proceed with the action. You must also determine what you would like the demonstration to accomplish. Is it putting pressure on government leaders or generating general public awareness?
The fun part is selecting which types of materials and props will be used. If you would like to use colorful signs and posters, it is best to make them before the day of action. PETA also recommends arriving with an arsenal of chants.
Visit http://www.peta.org/actioncenter/AAactguide12.asp for more tips.
Tell it to the Media
From the Equality Now Guide to Activism
Once you’ve laid the foundations for a group with committed, regular members and have begun to coordinate events, you’ll want to reach out to the media. Equality Now recommends researching which journalists have written stories about your issue or similar issues, and them contacting them with a letter or e-mail.
You will want to inform these journalists of any upcoming events as well as developments in the issue. To read more tips from Equality now, visit: http://www.equalitynow.org/english/takeaction/guide-activism_en.html
“Know Your Rights”
From the Code Pink Resource Toolbox
The downside of engaging in a direct action is that there may be legal consequences. The best way to ensure your safety and good standing with the law is to refuse to participate in destructive or violent activities. However, you could easily find yourself in hot water for demonstrating on private property without a permit.
Code Pink’s “Know Your Rights” resource list provides links to crucial information all activists should know about.
Source: BecauseAction.com
