For many, 2020 has seen an overwhelming desire to go back to “normal”, how things were before the global pandemic. But I’ve seen viral tweets about how maybe this year was the wakeup call we all needed, to make change and to shake up the status quo. There are some of us who have been working for change for quite some time, and I understand that sometimes it can feel like it’s all too much. It can be difficult to know what to do next.
When deciding what action to take, it is important to listen to those who are leading the charge (and likely have been for many years). Technology is a powerful tool for change, in an age where many have access to a camera in their pocket, it’s unsurprising that the images are getting more confronting. It is allowing the voice of the unheard to be brought to the foreground. Technology also makes it easier than ever to get involved from wherever you are in the world.
Find organisations and independent writers that focus on what you care about, subscribe to their newsletters, and control what you consume. Some of my favourites include Shelby Lorman’s Please Clap – an artist and comedian’s roundup of interesting articles, a pithy critique of current affairs and always includes photos of her dog Clementine. On Instagram, Joe Holder (@ochosystem) shares the ways in which fitness, community, environment and health intersect by “making movement a movement”. Anti-racism is hugely important work to be continuing, and Anti-Racism Daily has been created by Nicole Cardoza to deliver invaluable resources to support you daily.
Educating yourself on the experiences of others and the systems that uphold the status quo is useful, but only up to a point. You have to be able to act on your newfound knowledge. I’ve seen many people use the ‘house on fire’ analogy, if you see a house on fire, you don’t rush to research about what to do when a house is on fire – you just get moving. Identify your skills, what you can contribute and where it’ll be most useful. Despite working full-time in social services for more than two decades, my mum spends her downtime knitting for premature babies. Even the smallest acts of kindness can make a huge difference in the lives of others.
While it seems like protesting is the most important part of activism, this assumption that everyone needs to get out on the streets and march is ableist in a number of ways. The barriers are not just physical, especially when Covid-19 is still very much present in many communities around the globe. I still vividly remember being taken to the Destiny’s Child concert at Mt Smart when I was 9 years old and feeling like that was certainly going to be the last night of my life. Thankfully, I no longer experience this kind of terror in a crowd, but I know many who do. It doesn’t make you any less valuable to the cause.
Maybe you are the literal or figurative mum of your group, could you make sure those who are putting their bodies on the line are getting home safe? Could you make up essential packs that include things like hand sanitiser, plasters and sunscreen? Reach out to your networks and see if there’s a way you can support essential workers in your community. Assisting with childcare, providing baked goods, or gifting a moment of serenity like a massage or yoga class. There’s a myriad of creative ways to get involved with the things you care about, without leaving your house.
If it seems like there aren’t any visible demonstrations for your cause right now, there’s no doubt there are groups working tirelessly behind the scenes – help them out by signing and sharing that petition, go along to that council meeting, write to your local board members, plant those native trees, DONATE. There is tangible work to be done and the time is now.
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Chanelle is a vegan, amateur athlete, social advocate, environmental enthusiast and blogger at mynameischanelle.com.