Activism

It’s very easy on any given evening to commiserate with acquaintances at your local hangout about the sad state of affairs in the world, make broad assertions about the way things should be, and then return to the comforts of home only to forget those firebrand statements you were just professing as you realize that you have to do a load of laundry, you need to get lunch ready for the next day, and that big assignment that’s due soon is still waiting on your desk for your attention. Most people talk a good game, but pursuing positive action takes dedication and energy, not just fancy ideas and snazzy words.

The ability to think critically about issues and act effectively on ideas is crucial to positive, productive participation in local, national, and world communities. It’s vital to be involved, if you’re so inclined. If you are inclined, whatever your position may be―left or right, capitalist or communist, religious or secular, hawk or dove, pro- or anti-establishment, et cetera―it’s your responsibility to educate yourself and pursue action. However you choose to advance the ideas on whatever platform you stand―whether you start a revolution, carry a petition, write your congressman, or volunteer in your community―make sure you’re informed and make it count, because if you’re not part of the solution, you’re part of the problem.

Need some inspiration? See what Aaron Jackson’s doing with the money he’s raising. And take a look at what Ryan Hreljac was able to do with some hard work and $70. Then check out what Zach Hunter’s doing with his and others’ loose change.

So what are you waiting for? Get to it!

- Mr. Girard

Election 2007 and 2008
Declare Yourself
City of Tucson 2007 Elections
Vote 2008 at the Online NewsHour (Excellent coverage)
US Elections 2008 (Stories chosen by DIGGers)
YouChoose ‘08 (The Candidates on YouTube)
CNN-YouTube Debates

Know Your Local Government
City of Tucson
Amphitheater Governing Board
Arizona municipalities and their websites
Arizona counties and their websites

Know Your State Government
State of Arizona
Governor of the State of Arizona
Arizona State Legislature
(How do I find or contact my legislators?)
Arizona State Supreme Court

Know Your Federal Goverment
Federal Government Portal
President of the United States
Congress “America’s Town Square”
United States House of Representatives
United States Senate
United States Supreme Court

Important Documents
Arizona Constitution
United States Charters of Freedom
Our Documents
Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Get Involved
Volunteer Tucson
Volunteer Match
Arizona Public Interest Research Group
Corporation for National & Community Service
US Agency for International Development
THOMAS (Federal Legislative information)

Be Informed
Responding to Threats of Genocide Today, Committee on Conscience
“The Tragedy of Darfur”, Rolling Stone, September 2006
“The Social Psychology of Modern Slavery”, Scientific American, April 2002
“Never Accept a Diamond”, The Ultimate Field Guide to the U.S. Economy, February 2002
“Bystanders to Genocide”, The Atlantic, September 2001
“Lust for Diamonds Kills Thousands in Africa”, CNN.com, January 1999
“Have You Ever Tried to Sell a Diamond?”, The Atlantic, February 1982