Activism Defined: What Is Activism?

The definition of activism is any practice or action that helps a person or group achieve their social or political goals or demonstrate or advance their ideals or beliefs. Activism often comes about as a way to pursue social change or social justice or as advocacy for human rights. In social science, the term “direct action activism” describes activists who seek to directly attain their goals, while “general activism” seeks to persuade or appeal to leaders or authorities for change.

Many forms of activism work exist; you can educate others through community outreach or social media, raise money for an organization, or conduct research and surveys. Also, you can take part in many categories of activism, such as environmental activism, judicial activism, and political activism.

You can become an activist by teaming up with organizations or initiatives that matter to you. You can also spread awareness of injustices or societal issues on your social media platforms. Regardless of how you decide to get involved, you can start off by finding a cause that you are about, whether that means a climate change initiative or the animal rights movement. The following tips can help you on your journey as an activist:

1. 1. Attend events or rallies that support your cause. Many activists use collective action or mobilization of groups of people to show public support for a cause. Some groups stage sit-ins to protest an event or gather in public places to display their public support for a cause.
2. 2. Join community groups and organizations. Most social movements have organized groups that can help find people with similar ideals and beliefs. These grassroots activism groups often organize events or have volunteer opportunities that can help you get more involved in local activism.
3. 3. Help raise funds for your organization. Fundraising helps organizations or movements get equipment and resources to stage events and pay for staff. You can help raise funds by requesting donations or holding fundraising events like raffles or dinners.
4. 4. Lobby for change. Reach out to your local or national politicians to lobby for change. Examples of activism like this could include writing letters to your local leaders or calling a politician to request change or to ask for support for your cause.
5. 5. Spread awareness on social media. Social media is a useful way to spread a message about your initiative and to show your support for a group or movement. Organizations like nonprofits use social media to gain followers and support, and individuals can use their profiles to meet other activists and encourage others to support their cause as well.

Practicing empathy can help you lead more effectively while building stronger relationships across the personal and professional facets of your life. Challenge your perceptions with the MasterClass Annual Membership and take lessons on emotional intelligence from Pharrell Williams, Roxane Gay, Gloria Steinem, Dr. Cornel West, Walter Mosley, Robert Reffkin, and Robin Arzón.