Reclaiming Activism

[Bill Godshall]

Reclaiming Activism
Reclaiming Activism | Reinventing Peace


An excellent short essay differentiating "activism" from lobbying that is deceptively portrayed as activism. Although the article is about peace activism, it succinctly applies to "tobacco control activism" and other well funded lobbying campaigns.

So: three clear principles to guide an individual or organization aspiring to the honorable term “activist.” One: act in solidarity and support of the affected people, and don’t impose on them. Two: be honest to the facts, and open to inquiry into the facts. And when the facts change, change your mind. Three: be ready to challenge the biggest powers: the U.S. government and its allies.