Imperfect Activism: What is Your Activism Story?
Growing up, I watched my brother Mitch become actively involved in local elections. He was drawn to politics from a young age. He would canvass door to door and help out however he could. My sister Danielle and I sometimes tagged along—going door to door with him. But it took me years of living and learning before I found my way to activism.
When I was in college, I went to the pro-choice march in DC and I was actively part of an organization called Voices For Women. Later, I leaned into my feminist side by building a career devoted to helping women succeed in the workplace. But it wasn’t until 2016 when Trump was elected, and the rug was pulled out from me, that I really discovered my activism.
Like many, many, many others, I was confidently celebrating Hilary’s victory while heading out to the polls to vote. I was shocked and heartbroken when she lost. I cried watching Kate McKinnon’s performance of Hallelujah in the SNL cold open. And that sparked something in me to do what I can to make a change.
Since 2016 I have had the chance to lean into my more introverted side by writing hundreds (thousands?) of postcards encouraging people to vote. But I have also had to push myself to get out of my comfort zone by phone banking, canvassing, and attending protests and rallies.
Watch and Learn
I have been to many protests since my college pro-choice rally and each time I learn something new. I even learned a couple of cool things this past Saturday when I went to the No Kings protest. I learned to cover my sign in saran wrap when it rains and a nifty trick of wearing your sign around your neck so your hands are free. Every protest I attend will teach me more.
Do you want to become more involved in activism?
Lean into Your Strengths: start with what feels comfortable and you can grow from there
Find Community: There are tons of communities to join. You can join based on subject matter, demographics of members or geographic location. My sister started an online community called The 3am Uprising: Sisterhood for the Awake and Wild for people seeking political community.
Watch and Learn: In addition to reading and research, you can watch other people and learn from their ingenuity.
Trial and Error: You are going to make mistakes. Make them, learn from them and then keep showing up. We are not trying to be perfect. There isn’t time for that.
Reflection
What is your activism story?
What is holding you back?
What are your activism goals going forward?
Schedule a discovery call with me to see if I can help. Together we can figure out the best way for you to reveal your inner advocate and explore options to participate.
