So you’re an activist? Are you, though? By its definition, an activist is defined as: “an especially active, vigorous advocate of a cause, especially a political cause” (dictionary.com). I would like to highlight “active.” Being active in a matter means taking part in either its beginning, process, or end. At some point, you were involved in the subject of question, and saw to help its end-goal. How does this relate to current issues? The question is how does it not? Many individuals in our generation consider themselves as activists, several believe that they are part of a bigger picture. I am not saying you are not; I’m simply asking you to question whether you are an active agent or a dormant one. Do you actually discuss the issue that you are behind? Do you take active motion to see said issue unfold and cause change through it? That’s for you to decide.
A strong example of trending issues is regarding feminism. In the past couple of months, I have witnessed several peers, adults, middle and high schoolers declare themselves as feminists. In my perspective being a feminist, in simple essence, means being an activist who desires equal rights for the spectra of different genders. I have seen various phenomenal men and women who have actively taken part in hearings, gatherings, debates and much more, hoping to bring more attention to this worldwide dilemma. Through these various observations, I have seen several individuals snap a picture and declare that they are, in fact, a feminist. OF COURSE, there is nothing wrong with identifying as a feminist, the problem is taking on such a powerful role while doing nothing active about it. You are identifying with individuals who have worked tremendously hard to bring change in their cause. In a way, this is disrespectful to all of these hardworking activists.
If we take a closer look at micro-level feminism, then we should focus on the day-to-day discrimination of the genders. In this sense, being an active bystander is of crucial importance. Witnessing first-hand how someone is being mistreated and doing nothing, then getting on Facebook and stating how horrified you were, this is not right. Of course, don’t jeopardize your safety, by any means, but don’t go onto social media and declare how as an activist you were horrified. To be an activist in modern time, means taking stands/positions and defending them. Not witnessing, and doing nothing. If we want to create change, and actually hope for a more equalized way-of-life then understand the role that you are about to take.
By no way am I demanding that you go out and start protesting and causing all sorts of mayhem. No, instead I urge you to understand that if you are going to stand up for a cause and fight for its recognition and solution then do not be afraid when the situation gets difficult and your moral values are called into question. This is more than being brave for your cause, it is about your passion for a better day. I mean no disrespect, but the situation is that, be an activist. Change the world, lead the next generation, but do not be afraid of what you have taken on.
