Activists have long been central players when it comes to making history. One simply has to skim the stories of larger-than-life figures such as Martin Luther King, Jr., Mahatma Gandhi, and Malala Yousafzai to grasp the immense impact activists have had on the world. However, one does not need to stand before the masses and make drastic life changes to be considered an activist. One simply needs to take small steps towards advocating for change. After all, thousands of tiny steps can travel miles.

   Advocating for change within one’s community on a smaller scale is one of the many ways to participate in activism without dedicating an overwhelming number of hours to a certain cause. Not only does small-scale community activism allow one to play an active role in democracy apart from simply voting, it is a gateway to inciting necessary changes. According to a website dedicated to activism, “Community activists are an important part of democracy. By getting involved in their community, activists can help shape the policies and decisions that affect their lives. By raising their voices, community activists can bring about positive change in their communities” (activisthandbook.org). If there is an undersupported cause worthy of advocacy, it is critical that ordinary citizens step up, speak up, and become leaders within their communities who demand change. 

   One of the most common ways one can advocate for a cause is through protest. While some may view marching the streets, carrying hand-made signs, and echoing cleverly-crafted chants as unappealing, the reality is that it is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to garner the attention of city officials, and on occasion, the man in the oval office. According to a sociology website, “Because protest threatens to raise political and material costs to elites, protest increases the chance that elites will make concessions to protesters’ demands. Furthermore, a high volume of protest raises the visibility and recognition of protester demands, amplifying these costs. This implies that concessions by elites to protester demands will be more likely during peak cycles of protest” (asanet.org). Change can only happen when attention from those with power to enact it is garnered, something protests often accomplish.

    However, those looking for a less high stakes way to participate in community activism are not without options. Small actions such as volunteering at a homeless shelter, starting a GoFundMe to raise money for those in need, and volunteering with local activist organizations are all ways to contribute to change for the better. According to an article about community activism, “Joining an existing social activism group, attending local meetings and events, volunteering or participating in campaigns are some ways to get involved” (instantinput.com). There are countless opportunities when it comes to getting involved in activism; one simply has to do what they see fit.

    In many ways, community activists are the backbone of American society. Things one may take for granted on a daily basis such as community gardens, free mental health resources in schools, and homeless shelters all happened because someone stood up and demanded the needs of their community be met. It is imperative that in a democratic society seemingly average citizens exercise their power and voice to accomplish extraordinary things.