Five things every activist should be doing

Consider yourself an activist, but not sure what to do? Or need a little freshen-up on how to best create real change?

Here we explain how you can take a new approach to the way you campaign and see your results in action.

1. Write a letter

They do say the pen is mightier than the sword. Amnesty has a long history of using pen and paper to win campaigns and aid human rights abuse victims worldwide.

So, who can you write to? The list is endless. Give hope to those who need it most by getting in touch with prisoners of conscience and organisations supporting a powerful cause, or contacting the leaders and governments abusing their citizens’ rights.

Write for Rights is Amnesty International’s global letter writing movement. It’s not too late to join hundreds of thousands of people making change globally.

The pen is mightier than the sword © Amnesty International

2. Lobby Parliament

Contact your local member of parliament (MP). Politicians aren’t as cold and daunting as you think — and they’re accountable to the people in their community.

In Australia, our democracy holds those in power accountable to the voters. Write a letter or call your MP and make it clear you’re a member of their electorate.

Or give their local office a call and pop in, if given the chance. There’s no better way to express your concerns about Australia’s treatment of refugees and asylum seekers than face-to-face. Important conversations can — and have — swayed politicians to change their stance on legislative issues.

Check out our effective advocacy resources for more information.

Use your power as a voter to meet with your MP and talk human rights © Amnesty International

3. Use social media

Give social media activism a try. It’s a solid foundation for a life dedicated to activism. With a click of a button, you can raise awareness, organise an event, inspiring action and expand the reach of your cause.

First, nominate your platform of choice — Facebook, Twitter, Instagram. Set up an account, keep your posts short and sweet, and network to build a greater audience. Maybe you’ll even go viral!

“Social media is a powerful tool for social change. It’s never been easier for good ideas to catch on and spark a movement,” says Amnesty International Australia’s Online Communities Coordinator, Jessie Mawson.

Whether you’re a beginner or advanced in the world of social media, we’ve got lots of information to help you refine your online action strategy.

Expand the reach of your cause — get social © Flickr / Jason Howie

4. Make art

Creating something with meaning can be an attention-grabbing way to raise awareness for a cause.

Rediscover your creative side. Spend an afternoon with a paintbrush or a camera in hand, and capture what’s important to you. Submit your work into exhibitions, such as film festivals, competitions and galleries.

Challenge yourself to directly interact with the general public. Volunteer at a concert or festival, or get involved with a street performance or flash mob.

An LGBTI exhibition in Johannesburg, South Africa © Amnesty International

5. Travel for a cause

See the world and fundraise for Amnesty. Climb to the peak of Africa’s highest mountain to help fight global human rights injustices.

Martin Hardy took the plunge in 2012. He said when he reached the top he reflected on Africa’s poverty, humanity and inspiration.

“I was reminded never to forget how precious human life is, how fortunate we are, and the value of Amnesty International’s work to people all over the world.”

Raise funds, defend human rights and go on the adventure of a lifetime.

Take the challenge and climb Kilimanjaro © Amnesty International