Advocacy, by its very definition, is not particularly introvert-friendly
By Alicia Salazar
“Activism noun ac·tiv·ism | \‘ak-ti-vi-z m \: a doctrine or practice that emphasizes direct vigorous action especially in support of or opposition to one side of a controversial issue.”
“Direct.” “Opposition.” “Controversial.” Noah Webster and the Merriam brothers’ definition of activism is enough to make introverts around the world flinch and decide that…well…perhaps activism isn’t for them. Not that introverts are necessarily shy. On the contrary, they can be just as outspoken and passionate as any extrovert. They just express themselves differently. Whereas extroverted activists more closely meet the very definition of “activism,” introverts add a more contemplative nuance to the word.
On the surface, it might seem like introverts wouldn’t have much to contribute to a protest culture that relies on megaphoning messages and marching in crowds. But, in fact, the talents introverts bring to the table are vital to any movement. Here are five ways the more introspective among us can pitch in:
Letter-writing campaigns
Many introverts gravitate toward writing as a form of expression. Introverts like to look beneath the surface at the broader philosophical, political, or social and psychological significance of the events that unfold around them. Writing gives introverts time to flesh out their thoughts without the pressure of a confrontation, such as a debate.
Artwork
Introverts hate being the center of attention, but they don’t mind showing off their creative work. An artist can make a profound statement without saying a word (or showing their face). Think Banksy or David Low’s Rendezvous. Like writing, art gives introverts time to ponder and add provocative layers to their works that are difficult to express in sound bites. A daring piece of art can be both direct and vigorous without shining a spotlight directly on the artist.
Donate or Fundraise
Periods of solitude are vital to an introvert. They use it to rest, recharge and do all of that insightful thinking. The easiest way to get involved while lying on the couch wrapped in a blanket deep into a book is to donate to your favorite cause or political candidate. And if you don’t have a lot of money to spare, you can also think of ways to raise money for a purpose: have a garage sale, knit some caps or sell your crafts. Movements always need funding.
Local groups
There are few things lower on an introvert’s bucket list than a round of small talk and nothing higher on that same bucket list than a round of thoughtful, one-on-one conversations about the issues of the day. Finding a local group that supports your cause can help foster relationships with like-minded people. These relationships can open up opportunities to have more thoughtful, one-on-one conversations with other people. And so on. Sharing your ideas and viewpoints are critical to creating, growing and sustaining a movement.
Volunteering
Another activity that might satisfy an introvert’s preference for quiet, low-key environments and intimate conversations is volunteering time to a cause or politician they love. Volunteering gives introverts the chance to work behind the scenes, their favorite spot on the stage. It gets them involved in the nitty-gritty, day-to-day requirements of organizing and planning activities that make an impact.
Of course, not all introverts are alike. Some are more outspoken than others and even may behave like extroverts in (short, excruciatingly energy-depleting) bursts. But the point is, for those of us who prefer a less “charged” environment, activism is not antithetical to our nature. Change happens because people care enough to get involved. And you’d be hard-pressed to find a group of individuals who contemplate, and are outraged by, the injustices of the world more than introverts. •
Contributing writer and She’s Legend editorial board member Alicia Salazar is an unabashedly proud introvert—with just a touch more emphasis on the proud than the unabashed.