Action as Progress
When applied in a broader strategy geared to mobilize large numbers of people, creative action can shift ideas, power structures, and even the configuration of societies themselves. The direct action of the Boston Tea Party sparked the movement for U.S. independence from Britain in the 18th century, and two centuries later very different non-violent direct action tactics gained India its own independence from British colonialists. Creative action of all kinds has been strategically and successfully employed by change makers from Jesus Christ to Rosa Parks.
Slingshot 2.0
Those of us struggling for a better world often face what may seem to be daunting odds. And yet history has shown time and time again that those fighting for justice can and do win. In order to win, though, we must understand that the world we live in is changing faster than at any point in human history, and tried and true forms of protest may no longer have the impact they once did. Often in the role of David, activists have discovered that Goliath has already figured out the slingshot trick. Corporations and political institutions have developed their own predictable strategies for addressing the protests directed their way. And, as the mainstream media becomes increasingly consolidated and corporatized, it has become more difficult for acts of civil disobedience to attract notice. In order to stay effective, our creative actions must continue to evolve and adapt to changing times. We must stay a step ahead of those who wish to plunder the planet and human communities for private gain.
A Deficit of Movement Storytellers
It's not just about new kinds of action. For many in our society, a protestor chained to Chevron’s headquarters is seen as a publicity prank, or worse, a joke. By in large, Americans are not taught a narrative of change-making that celebrates people's movements or honors the central importance of creative action and personal risk in building or challenging power. Many of the tactics currently in our toolbox still serve us well, but we need larger numbers of people to see them as viable and engage them. Popular understanding of actions and social movements is more critical than ever if we are to rise to today's challenges.
The Moment is Ripe for an Action Tank
More than ever, we have the ingredients for a revitalized toolbox of creative action, and to build the interest and capacity of people across the country to use these tools with precision and focus. Right now hundreds of thousands across the country are coming together to ask tough questions about how we can rise to today’s challenges. Grassroots groups across the political spectrum are taking unprecedented, visionary actions; impacted communities across the planet, struggling against fierce odds, have and are taking our future back. In addition, new technologies and web-based media present new mediums for bold activism.
