Activism Vocabulary

20 Activism Vocabulary Terms with Meanings and Examples

Here are 20 activism vocabulary terms with their meanings and an example sentence each:

1. Activism: The practice of advocating for a cause or change.
   • Example: The civil rights movement was a powerful example of activism.
2. Social justice: The fair and equitable distribution of resources and opportunities.
   • Example: Social justice activists work to address issues like inequality and discrimination.
3. Advocacy: The act of promoting a cause or idea.
   • Example: Environmental advocates work to protect the planet from pollution.
4. Protest: A public demonstration of opposition or dissent.
   • Example: Protests are a common form of activism.
5. Boycott: A refusal to buy or use goods or services as a form of protest.
   • Example: The Montgomery Bus Boycott was a significant event in the Civil Rights Movement.
6. Civil disobedience: The refusal to obey laws as a form of protest.
   • Example: Mahatma Gandhi used civil disobedience to achieve Indian independence.
7. Grassroots activism: Activism that is organized and carried out by ordinary people at the local level.
   • Example: Grassroots activism is often more effective than top-down approaches.
8. Lobbying: The act of attempting to influence government policy.
   • Example: Lobbyists work to persuade lawmakers to support their causes.
9. Petition: A formal written request, often signed by many people, addressed to a government or other authority.
   • Example: Petitions are often used to raise awareness and demand change.
10. Strike: A refusal to work as a form of protest.

• Example: Workers often go on strike to demand better wages and working conditions.

11. Collective action: Action taken by a group of people to achieve a common goal.

• Example: Collective action is essential for social change.

12. Social movement: A large-scale organized effort to bring about change in society.

• Example: The feminist movement is a well-known social movement.

13. Philanthropy: The act of giving money or time to charitable causes.

• Example: Philanthropy can support activism and social change.

14. Non-governmental organization (NGO): A non-profit organization that is not part of a government.

• Example: NGOs play a vital role in social justice and environmental activism.

15. Volunteerism: The act of working for a cause without pay.

• Example: Volunteering is a great way to get involved in social activism.

16. Community organizing: The process of bringing people together to work for a common goal.

• Example: Community organizing can help empower marginalized communities.

17. Social media activism: The use of social media platforms to raise awareness and mobilize people for a cause.

• Example: Social media activism has played a significant role in recent social movements.

18. Political activism: The practice of advocating for political change.

• Example: Political activism can involve lobbying, protesting, and voting.

19. Grassroots organizing: The process of building support for a cause from the bottom up.

• Example: Grassroots organizing can be a powerful tool for social change.

20. Social justice warrior (SJW): A term used to describe someone who is passionate about social justice and actively works to promote it.

• Example: SJWs are often involved in social media activism and community organizing.