Micro-activism is employing small amounts of resources and efforts to support a political agenda. This concept is not new; see “Social Change through Microactivism,” Jose’ Marichal, Ph.D California Lutheran University. In Marichal’s work, he quotes academics as far back as 1986. It has become popular because, using social media and high tech, people can now reach out to thousands of people and have an effect far beyond anything in history.
Micro-Activism is the way forward for conservative movements in Rhode Island. The conservative movements lack the resources of; Silicon Valley, big companies, celebrities, and the media. Instead, it must rely on a grassroots momentum of like-minded individuals. The problem with this is that most of these like-minded individuals work, have families, and have only limited amounts of money and time. Thus, these people must make maximum use of the resources they donate.
This version of Micro-activism focuses on three resources Money, Influence, and Time. Thus the name MIT. The norms are simple and within reach of most Rhode Islanders.
(M)oney – $160 over a year. Ten (10) donations of $16 make up the total. They can be made anytime through the year—however, the earlier in the election cycle, the better.
(I)nfluence – This is the most critical resource. There are serval ways to influence politics.
First and foremost, you need to VOTE. All other efforts become meaningless if you do not vote.
Take like-minded registered voters with you when you vote. These voters can be family, friends, neighbors, or coworkers. Talk about the pros and cons of the candidates or issues during the drive. Your vote has not been legally multiplied by two or three.
Talk to like-minded people. It is not practical to try to talk people with polar opposite political leanings out of their positions and into yours. It is way easier and more fun to talk to a like-mind person and try to get them to act. See the post on inertia. Also, you can do this within many different venues, online, on social media, in social clubs, etc. Just remember a few simple rules; never be pessimistic about someone else’s opinion, always be respectful, and be aware when people tire of the conversation.
(T)ime – Four hours over a year. This amount of time may seem like a lot, but some of it is fun. Signing parties for RI nomination papers can be a great place to meet others who think like you. Going to fundraisers and events is a great way to meet friends and have a few laughs. Hosting a small backyard “Meet & Greet” for a candidate after dinner is a lot of fun too. Walking with a candidate in your neighborhood is an excellent way to reconnect with your neighbors. These are just a few ways we show our neighbors, family, and fellow citizens that we give a damn about our communities.
I realize any activism, even Micro-activism, puts us at risk of ridicule. But doing nothing is so much riskier. So I will end with this quote from Plato – “The price good men pay for indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by evil men.”