"We need to engage powerholders by listening to people we disagree with, by building bridges not walls and by being critical friends not aggressive enemies." -- Sarah Corbett
I adore and admire Sarah Corbett of Craftivist Collective. I've known her for many years but since I didn't consider myself a craftivist until lately, I felt like I was outside looking in. Her ideas and methods of gentle protest harness the power of introverts for good. Rather than scream at those in power, she suggests gifts like the bespoke handkerchiefs she has made and hand delivered, which have resulted in heartfelt conversations with influential powerholders by engaging them face-to-face with empathic understanding. Imagine if you're an elected official who receives a hand embroidered handkerchief with a message on it -- that kind of thoughtful gesture really stands out and sticks in your mind, along with the message. Her methodology has produced some amazing results.
Her form of intimate activism feels right to me because, while I'm not totally an introvert, I could never go out in a crowd to march or protest. It's just not me. I much prefer what Sarah calls "a thoughtful approach to mindful activism."
I encourage you to watch the video above to learn more, and visit Sarah's website, Craftivist Collective, for much more.
Here's another TED Talk of hers about Gentle Protest.
And another: A Craftivist's Story.