So You Think You Want To Be An Activist: A Tip Sheet

Have you ever seem something on the news that just gets you fired up? New legislation? A violation of human rights? Feel like your freedoms are being restricted? Do something about it!

I know from personal experience that activism can seem tricky. How do you do it? Why does anyone care what you have to say? Can you make a difference?

Really, you won't know unless you try. 

Activism is kind of an all encompassing term. My strengths are in blogging, promotional materials, and emailing. If you notice, those are all forms of advocacy writing. Coincidence? I think not. Even if you aren't a writing person, there are tons of ways to be involved. Because I do live in Arkansas, this information will probably be most relevant to my fellow Arkansans, but the basic ideas are the same no matter your location.

Step 1:  Research

This can be tricky if you don't know where to look. Theoretically, all of the information about the Arkansas Legislature can be found on their website. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to navigate. Openstates.org features a much more user friendly interface that allows you to look up different legislators and different legislation. Research the bills, research voting records, and then go over to Google and research the issue as a whole. If you support something, know why. If you oppose something, know why.

Step 2:  Vote

Simple. Make sure you're voting, for a couple of different reasons. Voting is great because it gives you input in who has political power. Voting is also great because legislators care a whole lot more about phone calls and emails from their voting constituents than they do any Jane Doe. And voting is fun! At least for political nerds.

Step 3:  Organize

This process is so much easier with some back up. Is there a local organization that feels the same way you do? Maybe even just your neighbor. Social media is a great tool for finding those allies. Facebook is great because you can form groups and events about the issue and share information and updates!

Step 4:  Advocate!

Here is where you have some freedom. My advice is to always start by going back to your research. Clearly summarize the issue/bill/legislator that you're focusing on and then outline the reasons that you are for/against it. Then decide what you want to do about it. Are you going to work solo? Or recruit some allies? My advice is to use that social media and find some allies. Even email writing is more fun with a friend! I use my personal Facebook page to raise awareness about important issues all the time. Then, when I get ready to take some real action, I know who to call (or message) for back up!

Advocacy is best accomplished with at least some writing. If you're making a phone call, have an outline ready for your talking points. If you're writing an email or a blog post, be aware of how you're representing your cause. You absolutely want to use reason, but it doesn't hurt to use some emotional appeals too. I strongly caution against exaggeration, but if you just list some facts, you won't be persuasive. By the way, never underestimate the power of a good, old-fashioned protest. The media loves them!

Pro Tip:  Think of a friend who has either a neutral or opposing stance on this issue. Would your writing or action persuade them? If so, great job! If not, is there a way you could improve it so that it would?