1.6: Advocacy and Activism (2024)

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    Advocacy vs. Activism:

    Differences, Similarities, and Nuances

    1.6: Advocacy and Activism (1)

    In the realm of social change, the terms “advocacy” and “activism” are often used interchangeably, but in actuality, they represent distinct approaches to achieving societal goals. With that said, we’ll unpack the differences, similarities, and nuances between advocacy and activism below.

    As defined by Merriam-Webster, advocacy is the “act or process of supporting a cause or proposal.” It involves efforts to influence public policy, laws, and practices through various forms of engagement, often focusing on persuading decision-makers.

    Advocates, therefore, work within the existing system to effect change, using tools such as lobbying, legal action, public speaking, and education to give a voice to a cause or group, often in a venue where decisions are made.

    The definition of activism is a practice or doctrine that “emphasizes direct vigorous action, especially in support of or opposition to one side of a controversial issue.” The fervent nature of the action, as well as the venue in which participants are voicing their views, are two key differentiators between advocacy and activism.

    Furthermore, activism is more about action on the ground as opposed to advocacy; it involves direct action to bring about social, political, environmental, or economic change, and those actions can take many forms, including demonstrations, sit-ins, protests, or other public displays of dissent.

    In direct contrast to advocates, activists often work outside the established systems, seeking to disrupt the status quo and draw public attention to a cause.

    Though it is clear that both advocacy and activism aim to affect social change, the methods in which both aim to do so differ, most notably in the following ways:

    • Approach

    Advocacy most often intertwines with dialogue and persuasion. Advocates will present facts and arguments in hopes of building rapport and swaying the opinion of decision-makers. Advocates often use tactics like lobbying, policy proposals, and working with lawmakers, making for an approach that requires influence, persistence, and diligence, as well as capital.

    Conversely, activism may involve more vigorous, adversarial interactions to bring about change; activists view disruptiveness as a powerful change agent, as it draws people in and forces them to pay attention, and as such, they may aim to change societal norms or challenge the status quo through protests, boycotts, or campaigns.

    • Focus Area

    Typically, activism is more focused on changing laws or policies. Advocates work within existing frameworks and legislative mechanisms to achieve their goals, which, in turn, means it is sometimes possible to bring about a more notable change sooner than it would be when using non-traditional channels.

    Conversely, activism generally seeks to change societal norms. Tearing down long-standing processes can take far longer, meaning activists must exhibit resolve and an unwavering commitment to their cause.

    • Engagement Level

    Advocacy often takes place in more formal settings, such as town hall meetings, with audiences that primarily include political decision-makers and influential members of society.

    On the other hand, activism takes place in highly visible public places. These are grassroots movements, most often public-oriented, requiring the support of community members to gain traction.

    Despite their differences, advocacy, and activism often intersect and complement each other. For instance, one could raise public awareness and create a sense of urgency through activism, then proceed to mobilize advocates to push for policy changes in the legislative arena.

    You can look at advocacy as the more formal and structured channel for affecting change, one that needs the right people to bring up the issue in front of the appropriate audiences. On the other hand, activism is all about drawing attention to a cause in hopes of spurring constituents and politicians to action.

    As we look back on the nation’s history, numerous examples of the complementary nature of activism and advocacy exist. The Civil Rights Movement is perhaps the best-known example. Activism was evident in marches, sit-ins, and boycotts, famously exemplified by the March on Washington and the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Still, advocacy efforts were just as often seen in the legal battles fought in courts and via the lobbying for civil rights legislation.

    The Civil Rights Movement would not have affected change as effectively or efficiently if not for the combined efforts of both activists and advocates. Cumulatively, their strategies led to lasting change in the United States and paved the way for future generations.

    For a more modern example, environmental movements showcase the collision between activism and advocacy. Activists have engaged in direct actions like protests against oil pipelines, while advocates work alongside them, pushing to shape environmental policies and laws. While there is much work to be done, the combined efforts of these entities have the potential to facilitate a greener, cleaner future.

    Attribution: Aristotle.com Web Article

    1.6: Advocacy and Activism (2024)

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