The word “slacktivism” has entered the mainstream news recently. It’s a term that’s been applied to folks who participate in acts of support for a cause or organization that require minimal effort – often online. Changing a profile picture on Facebook or affixing a magnetic ribbon to your car might be acts of slacktivism.
I find the slacktivist label needlessly demeaning. Paying lip service to a higher purpose is not a bad thing, and it seems to me that people who participate in these efforts mean well. With some education and encouragement they might move from well-meaning activities to meaningful action.
For non-profits and coalitions, think of slacktivists as people who are already predisposed to support your work:
• Start where they are. What are they likely to know about you or your cause? What are the common misconceptions?
• Discover connecting interests. What made them care enough to take even modest action online? What might inspire them to higher levels of engagement?
• Speak from the heart. What made you care about your cause? What inspires you to keep going when progress is difficult?
For individuals, if you cared enough about an online plea to respond, consider other ways you could help – without expending that much more effort. Can you provide referrals? Can you make a brief testimony video? Can you learn the policy priorities of an organization that works on that cause? And of course, can you write a check (or make a PayPal transfer)?
I believe Kansas is full of people who care and who can be inspired to take meaningful action. If you agree with me, please share this blog link with all your Facebook friends.
Picture courtesy of Randy
