Non-violent action (or nonviolent resistance, NVR) relies on achieving campaign objectives and goals through tactics such as symbolic/nonviolent protests, civil disobedience, political and/or economic noncooperation without resorting to violent methods. Organizations and movements that have been successful in nonviolent actions and strategies have come to the realization that ‘if people do not obey, rulers cannot…
In the 21st century, where over three billion people communicate online, a large chunk of your campaign costs normally spent on spreading the word and communicating with each other can now be done for free. Using social networking sites, websites, blogs you can reach out to your stakeholders and raise awareness and garner support from…
Effective campaigns differ by subject, scope, audience, location, cultural/political/social relevance, finances, strategies, and tactics (to name a few). There are various models for effective online and offline campaigning, however, whatever you are working all effective and successful campaigns should adhere to these four simple characteristics/rules: Be clear and concise. The core message—regardless of the…
Identify the Problem – Be Specific! While organizing, it’s easy to get lost in all the ways varying aspects intersect with the broader cause we are trying to work for and change. An essential process before implementing any action is identifying an issue or problem that can be tied to the broader frameworks of our…
Excellent article from the Advocate Storming the Stage: A History of Disruptions to Advance Our Rights The protester who interrupted President Obama in June was part of a long history of direct action in the LGBT movement. Jennicet Gutiérrez, a transgender woman and undocumented immigrant, received both praise and condemnation for interrupting President Obama’s speech at…
An important contribution to strategizing movement building! We’re talking more and more about creating a “big tent”, intersectional organizing or building a “movement of movements”. But how useful is it? From the always excellent wagingnonviolence.org Earlier this summer I helped to organize the March for Jobs, Justice & the Climate — an action that brought…
From Huffington post The first Democratic debate last night was, refreshingly, a spirited exchange of important ideas and policies, unlike the egomaniacal, mean-spirited, rhetoric-spewing GOP slugfests that have so far transpired. This, even despite CNN’s silly showcasing of the last night’s event as if it was a Vegas prizefight. The debate also highlighted just how important…
From human chains to hand-holding flash mobs, the power of human touch could be the missing piece in your next campaign.
Forced to cancel a public rally, Georgian LGBTIQ activists found a poignant way to show their invisibility in the country.
For Athens Pride, organizers are planning to stage a freeze mob and shared some tips for those who want to do the same.