Activism and Us (Beginning)

Begin

with research Begin by joining an existing group Begin by starting a new group Look beyond the obvious How do your objectives score? Generate ideas that will lead to your goal, and then decide which to pursue. Test alternative objectives by asking: ~ Will it improve peoples lives or confer a public good? ~ Is it easy to understand? ~ Is it specific? Will you know when youve reached your objective? ~ Will it have a immediate impact? ~ Will it contribute to reaching long-term goals? ~ Will other citizens want to help? ~ Will it establish healthy connections between people? ~ Is it attainable? ~ Is it attainable with available resources?

Map the landscape of support and opposition Getting Noticed Define your message Importance of timing Write letters to the editor Issue media advisories Dont rely on the media to educate Ask members to invite others Go to where people are Look for ways to collect names, addresses, phone numbers Stay in touch with one another Lead by creating an example to follow Appreciate all contributions, no matter how small Help people to believe in themselves Follow a procedure to reach closure Suggest options when time runs out Carrying out a SWOT analysis Identifying targets and allies Drawing up a detailed action timetable