Public Resource
Effective Activist

To be successful, progressive movements should organize in friendly political climates, mobilize frequently, and choose nonviolent tactics. For the best messaging strategies, use clear, specific language, apply “diagnostic” (i.e., diagnosing the problem) and “prognostic” (i.e., prescribing solutions) language frames, use master frames with wide appeal, consider your audience, and secure media coverage. For effective educational programs, use interactive, ongoing formats and reproduce effective programs. For effective protest strategies, mobilize regularly, combine protests with other tactics, and focus your message. To build strong progressive movements, recruit activists and volunteers by considering individual factors and constraints, ask people to join, demonstrate effective activism, use powerful communication strategies, and support community organizations. To prevent burnout, consider different levels of involvement and foster supportive environments. This guide also includes strategic pieces of advice for organizing and movement building.