How to Create Positive Change in the World
Chanda Burrage | October 7, 2022
Social Change is a phrase that is often used but not very well understood. For some people, social change simply refers to altering how things are done. However, social change is much more than that. It is a process of creating tangible and lasting improvements in the lives of people who have been systematically oppressed. It is a movement toward justice, equity, and inclusion. It is a struggle to upend systems of power and privilege that have been in place for centuries.
In short, social change is a long-term process of transforming society to better reflect the needs and aspirations of all its members. This process is often slow and difficult, but it is essential if we want to create a more just and equitable world.
So how do we go about creating social change? In this post, I will explore ways you can make a difference in our community and help bring about positive social change!
Understanding Social Structure
One of the most important factors in social change is the social structure within which it takes place. We must understand the social institutions and systems that maintain inequality and injustice to create social change. We must also identify the people and groups most affected by these systems.
Once we have a clear understanding of the structure, we can begin to challenge the norms and values that underpin it. We can also work to build solidarity among different groups and movements fighting for social justice.
Local Awareness
As a Black woman, I have always been aware of the disparities that exist in our society. I see it in how my family and friends are treated, our neighborhoods, and the schools we attend. For too long, communities of color have been neglected and forgotten. But we are not powerless. We can make a difference in our communities by coming together and speaking out against injustice.
With that said, we can demand change from our elected officials. And we can support social institutions and organizations working to create a more just and equitable world.
So, Let’s Become Lobbyists!
One particular way to fight back against these injustices is to form a lobbying group. By coming together and using our collective voice, we can make our opinions known to the people in power and demand change. Lobbying groups have been instrumental in achieving progress on various issues, from civil rights to environmental protection.
Some examples of lobbyists that fight for change in Black communities include the National Urban League, the NAACP, and the National Action Network. These organizations and social movements work to improve the quality of life for Black Americans by advocating for social and economic justice. They provide a voice for the voiceless and fight for policies that benefit everyone.
But we don’t have to become the “NAACP” every day, there are people who bang down the doors of Congress, Business Executives, and Local Community-based Leaders … every day.
How so?
First and foremost, it requires a fundamental understanding of how the political process works. This means knowing not only how laws are made but also how to navigate the often complex world of government relations.
In addition, lobbyists must be excellent communicators in writing and in person. They must be able to articulate clearly their clients’ position on an issue and why it is important.
Finally, lobbyists must be persistent and have a thick skin, as they will inevitably face rejection at some point in their careers. But lobbying can be rewarding and fulfilling for those willing to do the hard work.
Global Awareness
Another important area of social change is global development. This encompasses many issues, from poverty to human rights to environmental justice. To create positive social change in this area, we need to build awareness about existing problems and work together to find solutions.
One organization that is doing excellent work is Oxfam. Oxfam is a global confederation of 17 organizations working together to end the injustice of poverty. They provide emergency relief to those affected by natural disasters or conflict, and they also work to promote social and economic justice worldwide.
Oxfam has a long history of partnering with local organizations in developing countries to create lasting change. They work with communities to identify the root causes of poverty and injustice and develop strategies to address them. One example of this is their work with small-scale farmers in Africa. Oxfam has helped farmers become more productive and profitable by teaching them how to use new technologies and farming methods. This has helped reduce poverty and food insecurity in many areas.
So what if we formed our own “Global Oxfam” – filled with people like you and me – to solve issues relevant to communities of color where we live, work and play?
No matter what, we all have a role to play in creating social change on a global and local scale. By working together, we can make a real difference in the world!
Looking to the Future
So, maybe it’s time for us to keep asking about social change and how to create positive social changes worldwide. It’s good to know that we can form our collective lobbying team to address the issues that concern us. We can start by contacting our local representatives and letting them know what we want to see changed in our community.
We can also support organizations that are already fighting for social justice. And finally, we can educate ourselves on the political process to be more effective social change leaders for our communities. Change doesn’t happen overnight, but if we all do our part, we can create a more just and equitable society for everyone.
Do you have any suggestions for ways to create social change? Leave a comment below!
Thanks for reading! I hope this post has inspired you to take action in your community. Remember, social change is a long-term process, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. Keep fighting the good fight.
Eventually, we will achieve positive social transformation!
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