Transforming armchair activism into physical good

Put on some pants and start doing something

At times we all feel the need to express our anger and frustration, on injustices happening worldwide, especially those closer to home. We all feel the need to give our two cents on a subject we care about, hoping people will somewhat ‘like’ or comment. Undoubtedly, social media platforms have inevitably spread awareness on social issues around us, informing even those who fail to pick up a newspaper and to stay up to date. While the positive impact is undeniable, it has also created a dark side of Internet politics.

Social media has also brought about a new form of individual who considers himself an activist by spreading his anger and discontent from the comfort of his armchair whilst holding a cup of tea behind a screen. Such political hobbyists often feel as though by sharing their anger online, they have actively contributed towards a social issue, and which (they think) ‘exempts’ them from getting their hands dirty.

As adults, our social media efforts of ‘sharing’ and ‘posting’ are not sufficient to facilitate change. More must be brought to the table. We MUST campaign, vote, sign petitions and pledge money to those causes we support- regardless of our political beliefs.

Although we each have our own political beliefs, realistically, the chances of coming across a political party that is completely in line with all our beliefs (particularly in Malta) are next to none. So should we not protest or support a cause we believe in, just because the party we generally side with initiated it?

The day we learn that we all need to actively work together as a nation to fight for change is the day we move a step closer to a brighter future and less pessimistic Facebook posts.

Do you think government officials are scratching their heads and having sleepless nights over a few hundreds of people ‘sharing’ their causes, yet physically doing nothing about it? Quite frankly, they don’t care! In fact, the lack of physical activism is likely to promote more unethical behaviour in the country.

Whether it is the lack of green spaces you are concerned about, or the unattractive buildings going up, the lack of transparency from government officials and their shady businesses or the lack of consideration and affection towards refugees, there are organisations you can support for each cause.

The feeling of satisfaction and pride you will experience for actively contributing to a cause that is close to your heart is much more fulfilling than the trivial ego boost you experience for garnering those 50+ likes on your Facebook complaint.

A big part of adulthood is learning to have a mind of your own. We are able to read up on issues we feel strongly about, and have the ability to voice these opinions online. However, it is about time that we realise it is our duty to take a stand, put some pants on and actually DO something about it. The sooner we all take a more active approach, the sooner voices will start being heard.

The feeling of satisfaction and pride you will experience for actively contributing to a cause that is close to your heart is much more fulfilling than the trivial ego boost you experience for garnering those 50+ likes on your Facebook complaint