How to Become a Social Activist

Civil rights. Women's rights. The right to vote. All these advances in our society were brought about by social activists. You can change the world one issue at a time but there is a way to go about it.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Passion for what you believe in
• Willingness to fight for it

1. CHOOSE A SERIOUS SUBJECT
   
   Picking an issue like having toothpicks after your meal at the restaurant won't get you anywhere. Pick a subject that you and a considerable amount of people are passionate about. Starting a petition to banks to stop charging frivolous overdraft fees is not bad because a lot of people face that problem. Register yourself or group if local laws so demand.

2. NETWORK WITH LIKE-MINDED PEOPLE
   
   Get people who will go with you for the long haul. You must enlist people who are more passionate about the subject than you. This keeps your activism going because the energy to go on is present.

3. USE THE INTERNET
   
   Blog. Use YouTube, MySpace and e-mail to connect and contact people who share your passion. It is the best way you can send out announcements about victories or setbacks. You must endeavor to keep your base posted at all times.

4. ORGANIZE PROTESTS, MARCHES AND DEMONSTRATIONS
   
   Use legitimate means to register your protests. Check in with the local police and get a permit. Let the public know what you want. They might want to become part of your struggle. Remember, in activism, you need public opinion on your side.

5. DON'T STOP TILL THE ISSUE IS RESOLVED
   
   Activism should be very much alive even after objectives are met. You have stay on top of the progress you make as a group because it is easy for things to regress under the radar. You want the world to be a better place so don't stop what you think is right.

[2besure]

on 1/1/2009 Another great article on how to get involved in important issues.