Why Organize? A Call to Action

Edited by Prim M.

I take it you are interested in having an effect on society. Solving problems not only for yourself, but also entire communities of people, whether it be climate change, economic inequality, racial and social injustice, or ending the war on drugs, to name a few issues. 

When those in power have failed the common people, it is upon the activist to fight for the shared interests of the community.

It is not enough to change your lightbulb, recycle, or share “thoughts and prayers.” Lobbies in Washington spend billions to bribe congress to maintain their corrupt status quo. Climate change is devastating communities and ecosystems across the entire world, all as the military industrial complex continues to murder innocent people while claiming to do so in the name of morality and democracy. 

To end the misery created by such a cruel, indifferent system will require a radical shift in consciousness. Fortunately, this shift in consciousness is taking place all over the world, and this is your invitation to be a part of it. 

The responsibility of such an undertaking is more than any single individual can withstand by themselves. Banding together is essential for meaningful and lasting change. The odds are stacked against us, and that is why it is absolutely imperative for us to organize.

Organizing is not only a strategic necessity, but also provides a sense of meaning to its participants. With the rise of loneliness among our generation, I can think of no greater alternative to doom scrolling than being of service to others and making a few friends along the way. Activism is a call to Adventure.

There is nothing more fulfilling and inspiring than seeing the impact of your actions on the community around you. 

For many of us, it is not enough to go to work, eat, sleep, comply, and die on the inside. Activism gives us the opportunity to know that we’ve left the world a better place. Activism gives the conscious citizen an opportunity to contribute to the greater whole of society and the world. 

“That’s all well and good, but where’s the proof that activism really does anything?”

In many ways, the history of America is the history of activism, be it the Quakers who advocated for the abolition of slavery, the feminists for women’s rights and the right to vote, or the civil rights and countercultural movements of the sixties. We have a long tradition of people who stood up to injustice and changed society for the better. Unfortunately, we also have a long history of institutions and forces working to undermine that progress as well.

You may be wondering how we can expect anything to change when the people we elect continue to do the bidding of the ultra wealthy? Election after Election, we vote for people who promise change, but give us more of the same. This makes the future seem hopeless, and for good reason. However, there are a number of ways people can get involved and make a difference, given the right tools and strategy. 

Activism is not just attending a rally or voting for “The Lesser of Two Evils” every four years. Activism is an ongoing process that takes many forms.

People are well aware of the corruption of the political system. We need lasting and meaningful change on a number of issues, be it the environment, economics, education, war, or drug policy. The question is, how do we make our ambitions a reality? That is what I seek to discover with The Activist Playbook, a collection of reflections and insights to help navigate the challenges you will face as an activist.