A Guide to Sustaining Your Activism
Most of us understand that we are at a pivotal time in climate history. Most of us are aware we must shift towards a more regenerative and sustainable world. We understand climate change is real and we are running out of time to deal with it - but that in itself can be overwhelming and paralyzing.
Photographed by @alexfilardo
It’s difficult to experience social media without hearing the latest news on a recent natural disaster, climate related policy, sustainable living, different regenerative topics to learn about, and how climate action intersects with many other challenges we face today like social justice, economic prosperity, corporate interest, and privilege. We are eager to learn so we can participate, but there is so much to take in at once and that can be exhausting. We must find ways to sustain our passion, motivation, and actions.
Right now, we need all the activists we can get. The act of learning, unlearning, shifting perspectives, and making individual change is all a form of activism. However, dismantling unsustainable systems will take massive pressure from millions of people working together over a long period of time. We need just as much action now as we will need in 10 years. Learning to sustain your activism is a key part of protecting our people and planet. Here are some of my favorite tips to create a sustainable model for your own activism journey.
Sustainable activism is about making sure you’re showing up consistently now and into the future. How can we stay inspired? How can we keep moving forward? How can we make change that’s long-lasting? How can we take breaks that revitalize our missions?
Educate yourself
To be part of this movement for the long-term, we must become educated about the issues we are fighting for. Start with the topics that interest you the most - mine are circular economies and intersectional allyship! Understanding nuances will help us better teach others to raise awareness in a constructive and accurate way. You must invest time and energy to read and listen to leaders. Some of my favorite resources are following changemakers on social media (@atmos @queerbrownvegan @ecotok), listening to podcasts, watching TED talks, and reading environmental articles from platforms like Grist and NY Times.
Get inspired by progress
Some of the information we learn can be discouraging and seem like we are taking steps backwards. Remind yourself that progress is not linear, and we’ve taken massive strides in just the past few years towards a more equitable and sustainable world. Sustainable living has become a household term, massive corporations are implementing low waste options, and renewable energy has never been more affordable. It is so important to relish in the incredible strides and obstacles we’ve overcome to keep us inspired and moving forward. In just the past month, the United States has rejoined the Paris Climate Agreement, prevented the expansion of the Keystone XL Pipeline, welcomed transpeople back into the military, and implemented quite an ambitious climate plan. If you notice yourself becoming less passionate and more “doom and gloom,” refocus your energy on positive progress - because there’s a lot to celebrate.
Rest + Recovery
The most important part of sustaining your activism is noticing your own reactions and feelings towards problems, solutions, and changes. Yes, resting is part of sustaining your activism. I strongly suggest taking breaks often from social media, activism work, and challenging conversations that can drain your energy. My favorite way to take breaks is to get outside in nature and remind myself of exactly what we are all fighting for. When setbacks happen, because they will, hold space for recovery by taking care of yourself. An uplifting conversation with an ally can shift your mindset from feeling discouraged to empowered. Remember to be that person for someone else, too.
Graphics by @carissaandclimate
At such a critical time in human history, the cost of doing nothing is far greater than participating, so use these insights to build a healthy framework for your own activism. It’s just as radically important to be gentle with yourself as it is to have compassionate conversations with others. It is just as effective to reconnect outdoors as is it to sign petitions. All of us are working on the frontlines to create sustainable systems for our planet - sustainable activism is a reminder that sometimes, that starts with ourselves.