You can find many tips online for how to get involved with local
groups pushing for positive change on climate change and other issues. There’s
been a recent proliferation of websites devoted to social justice activism, and
that advice applies to environmental justice, climate justice, environmental,
and climate groups. Below is advice from me that could be particularly useful
for those just beginning. This is a
repost of tips offered as an appendix to my post “I live in Alabama. Can I do
anything about climate change?”
1.
Find a group to work with. Reach
out to others you know who are already doing civic engagement on the
climate crisis. They may know of groups focused on the climate crisis in some
way. There are websites such as Idealist that
connect people to organizations in your area. Or, search social media or
the internet for groups working on the climate crisis in your area,
region, or state. Remember that much of the work being done isn’t identified as
climate activism. For example, work to reduce homelessness also helps reduce
vulnerability to climate impacts. Also, be aware that many groups don’t
advertise that their work is related to climate activism to avoid drawing
unwanted political attacks or alienating those who are resistant to climate
activism. Other groups don’t yet see their mission being related to climate
crisis. That’s okay. It’s all good work. See my final tip if there are no
climate groups where you are.
2.
Choose a group to join. Look for a
group whose purpose aligns with your values and whose culture feels right for
you. Check out their mission and vision statements. Feel free to shop around if
you have options. Finding a good fit and developing some friendships will help
you stay engaged.
3.
Offer what you can. You can
support groups in many ways, regardless of who you are. There are many ways to
help. Join as a member. Donate money, a meeting space, or some other resource.
Advocate for the policies they support. Share your ideas, expertise, time, and
talents. Volunteer for outreach events. Offer what feels right, but there’s
much to be gained by venturing out of your comfort zone and learning new skills
and talents.
4.
Expand your influence. With time
you will learn much and develop new organizing and civic engagement skills. At
some point you may find you are ready to take on a leadership role in the
organization. Or, you may want to expand your reach by working with other
groups as your interests and abilities grow.
5.
Be patient AND ambitious. One the one
hand, be patient with yourself and others. We are, after all, taking on an
immense challenge! On the other hand, we need ambitious goals given the speed
and scale at which we must act. The point of tension where these two guidelines
intersect is where you and your group can make the greatest difference.
No climate groups where you are?
Start one! Every effective organization began with someone like you who was
motivated to make positive change happen. Now more than ever before, there are tools
and tips available for how to start a group within your community. Learn about
the groups that you wish to emulate, and reach out to their leadership for
advice. Some organizations are statewide or nationwide and can help you start a
local chapter. No need to reinvent the wheel!
Please pass along these tips and a link to this blog to those you know who might be interested. And please sign up for emails – see button below.
Do you have tips or suggestions you want to share? Post as a comment or email me at sduncan@bsc.edu.