Making physical signs, marching, and participating in community gatherings are second nature to SoCal 350 and our fellow activists. With the spread of Covid-19 and the need for social distancing to protect the health and wellness of our society as a whole, it’s time to innovate and embrace remote activism.

Here are a few recommendations to help further the cause online and by phone.

5 Tips for Effective Remote Activism

1. Pick Up the Phone

It may seem old fashioned, but cold calls or connecting with fellow activists by phone remains an effective tool in our arsenal. During this unique time, you’re likely to find an audience that’s at home, present, and interested in a nice conversation. Seize this opportunity by setting up a phone tree. To keep one another motivated, on task, and feeling connected, try setting up a video conference call. Participants can mute themselves as each individual goes about making their calls and informing citizens about important actions.

2. Use Social Media

Now more than ever, social media is the best way to connect with like-minded individuals, share information, and truly educate and enlighten your network on climate change and other important causes. If you’re not on social media, sign up for Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. While you may not be able to stand in front of a Chase Bank branch to inform customers and passersby about the way they bankroll fossil fuels and deforestation, you can share the same information with your online followers. Link to credible articles and fellow activists so your mission has substance.

3. Share What You Know

If you’re reading this and a member of SoCal 350, you’re enlightened and “in the know.” You have knowledge your friends, loved ones, neighbors, and colleagues may not be aware of or willing to address. Without being accusatory or overly aggressive, you have the opportunity to turn passive, but likeminded individuals into activists. Share what you know on social media, by creating your own blog, or sending friends and relatives emails. Direct the people you know to our website and encourage them to sign up for newsletters, podcasts like EcoJustice Radio, and reputable blogs that provide useful information on climate change.

4. Explore Hashtags

When you’re unable to participate in real-life actions, it’s easy to get discouraged or feel alone in your beliefs. In reality, there’s a bustling community you can immerse yourself in. Explore hashtags on Instagram and Twitter or join Facebook groups that believe in the same causes and you’ll be encouraged and inspired to find unique and effective ways to make positive change.

5. Get Creative

While participating in Fire Drill Friday or peacefully protesting outside a neighborhood oil refinery may not be in the cards right now, there are creative ways to make a difference. Create digital signs you can share online. Organize call-ins to Chase Bank executives so they hear your dissent. Design online petitions. Turn to review sites like Google or Yelp and make sure patrons and potential customers know the backstory on companies that fund fossil fuels. Your reach can go as far as your imagination.