Using Social Networking for Activism

You probably already know what social networking is. Basically, social networking is simply making contacts and communicating in various ways. Social networking often utilizes mass-communication methods such as mailing lists, bulletins, and other ways to distribute quick information throughout an informal group of people.

The internet has greatly facilitated social networking. People can quickly, conveniently, and cheaply communicate with others. People can use their computer to store contact lists, and then can contact these people through various mediums from instant messengers to email, most of which is either free or very cheap. Additionally, online social networking has been even further amplified by social networking websites, such as MySpace, Friendster, and Facebook.

Activists need to take note of these changes and utilize the new methods of social networking. Activism relies heavily on organization and coordination, which in turn relies heavily on social networking. The most powerful activism is that which is decentralized, and the new technology of the internet has made it very easy for decentralized movements to start.

Activists can help empower themselves by taking advantage of social networking as much as possible. When going to meetings and other events, activists can share contact details, including email addresses.

Additionally, activists can meet up with each other through the internet. After activists make contact with each other online, they can send each other information about upcoming events and issues. Usually it does not require any more work, as simply adding someone to a certain list can result in them getting all of your updates, bulletins, emails, or such.

One of the great aspects of social networking is that it can be used to recruit more activists. The ability to use social networks and contact lists to disseminate information means that activists can now much more easily raise awareness about issues. For example, sending emails or posting on internet message boards is much cheaper and much more effective than printing out flyers. As more people know about a certain issue or social problem, more people will be willing to get active about it.

Older activists and non-tech-savvy activists may not be as familiar with the newest methods of social networking. It is important that tech-savvy activists show others how to use the internet and technology to facilitate the networking between activists. It is also wise to keep tech-savvy activists well-informed, since they have the most power to spread information throughout the internet and utilize online social networking mediums.

Remember to use new social networking methods to facilitate your activist endeavors. Whatever you do, good luck and have fun!