There is no singular and „correct” recipe for how to conduct activism. Any collective effort that brings attention to an issue could qualify as such because activism involves exposing injustices and pushing for changes. Over time, activists may adopt increasingly unconventional methods and forms in their actions as traditional approaches become less effective and are overlooked. It may also require complex cross-actions or using new technologies, the power of the Internet, and social media to gain favour. Let’s start with a simple „menu of actions” that could give you an idea of how to perform activism. But remember – it’s not a closed catalogue. Only imagination and creativity are the limits. By thinking about what actions are available to you, you can dedicate more resources to shaping them in a new and more impactful way.

Petition

It’s a formal written request made and submitted to an authority, e.g., government, court, signed by many people in respect of a particular cause, demanding or asking for some actions, law changes, etc. A petition can be made in traditional form, requiring personal data and a list of hand signatures from idea supporters, but could also be set up in an online version. It’s convenient and quicker, especially when we hope for nationwide or global engagement and impact.

Hashtag action

Creating a whole hashtag action on social media brings more visibility to an issue, helps to spread information, or simply joins a movement by showing solidarity or encouraging a specific attitude. It might also be a direct call to action, an instruction intended to provoke a response, an immediate action on the part of the Internet/platform users. Growing numbers and rate of involvement or engagement catch the attention of the media, put pressure on the right targeted bodies: organizations, institutions, companies, public bodies, or authorities.

Letter writing

By taking part in mass writing letter actions, you might change the lives of those who are in danger or make a difference in the authorities’ decisions. Writing a real letter (written, signed, addressed, and sent) can bring hope to people in the direst of situations. When letters arrive in huge numbers to headquarters, they are also an unmistakable reminder to authorities and others that the world is watching and demanding changes, e.g,. realise imprisoned activists, save people sentenced without justice, or cancel harmful laws.

Banners drop

Hanging a banner in a publicly visible spot is a very eye-catching action, as it is immediately seen by passersby. This traditional form doesn’t disappoint when it comes to raising awareness, spreading information, or pushing people to reactions/reflections. Depending on the activist’s creativity or location/placement, it might have a stronger impact.

Protest/demonstration/strike

One of the most common forms of activism is protests, demonstrations, and public strikes. When people are under the influence of strong emotions, when they are truly fed up or in strong need of change, they literally are going out on the streets. This way, people unite and rally around a shared cause to send a powerful message to governments or authorities. By organising, e.g., street marches, public sit-ins, picketing, standing, or speeches, they show that there are matters and issues important to a bigger representation of society.

Blocade / Space occupation

Either blockade and space occupation involve taking over some spaces, physically obstructing access to public or private spots, routes, or infrastructure. They are a visible form of protest done to highlight a cause or disrupt operations, e.g,. Stopping deforestation. The symbolic value follows the logic: „put your body in the way of an injustice and make it stop”.

 Boycott

It’s a form of resistance when activists encourage others to stop or limit buying products, using services, or supporting specific companies, organisations, not engage in participation in their activities, events, or avoid certain people. The goal is to shorten influence, power, and economic profits that could be used by them in harmful ways, e.g., co-funding wars, ecosystem degradation, exploitative behaviours, etc. This kind of activism could be practised in daily life, during shopping, using social media to raise awareness of why, how, and what/who should be boycotted.

Campaign

Convincing society to stand up against injustice and use the sway of public opinion towards those in power requires certain activities. Campaigns are helping to raise awareness and build social engagement, to make the impact stronger and pressure more effective. It can be done in traditional ways, in public spaces, or easily held online. Complex actions can include banners, posters, leaflets, sending emails, posting on social media and various websites, using commercials and media appearances (e.g., radio) to spread a message and push to real action.

Art 

Artistic forms can be used to stimulate discussions about important social and political issues, be a part of discourse, and help to express concerns in less or more unconventional ways. Be it graphic/poster designs, paintings, public installations, sculptures, murals, graffiti, etc. Popular and catchy might also be designing some stickers or creating their own zine – a small, self-made and self-published publication with text and images to highlight important problems. Similar to fashion, designers use fabrics and symbols to convey their message, for example, on T-shirts, what they do or don’t support.

Event / Performance

Activists are coming up with new ideas for impactful events all the time. It’s a good way to gather people of similar mindsets or introduce the community to ideas, values, and combated issues in an accessible way, using the opportunity to interest potential supporters. On the list of ideas we could put: film screenings, concerts, art exhibitions, fashion runways, poetry slams, panels with guests, theatre plays, thematic conferences, art and craft workshops, and many, many more. They might be combined, e.g., with crowdfunding or stands for collecting signatures under petitions. To follow the saying: „Combine business with pleasure”.