Taking Action
For starters let's realize we cannot stop ourselves from taking action - it's a matter of the kinds of actions we make.
In the past, we might blindly and blithely spend our hours at work, at the mall or plugged into the TV. Even if these activities don't basically change, much can change by the quality of how we engage these activities. Greater awareness can say, enhance recycling or reduce energy use at work. Consciousness can assure us of buying from only those that support World 5 type ideals. And with the TV, well, turning it off is an action, too.
Boycott and Buycott
Perhaps the most clear cut strategy for us as "consumers," is to be more selective in our consumption patterns. Never mind that the term is offensive, reducing we, the people, to a sort of bug-like status. Intelligent consumption patterns can have a remarkable effect on corporations, and our actions can help create that impetus.
So, especially here in the states, virtually all of us own cars and buy gas. But even within that narrow transportation option we can use the boycott/buycott approach. Which companies have the highest fleet mileage? Honda and Toyota. Tell U.S. and European makers, via your purchase decisions, that you're not buying Hummers until they get about 80 miles to the gallon.
And gas? Exxon Mobil is probably the biggest "devil," with Shell right behind. Exxon is still behind cleaning up Alaska (remember the Valdez?) and Shell has a habit of killing people in Africa who oppose their imperial policies. Citgo's is a fine choice, if you can find it.
This voting with your dollars thing is potentially a very powerful tool. It applies to any area of spending. Vote organic, vote local, vote community support - by the companies you support. You see, these people listen to money, not us. Here's a useful site highlighting warmongers.
Activism
Beyond greater awareness for the actions we take, there is a wide world of issues that need attention and healing. We encourage activism as an essential component of a participatory democracy, regardless of the type of activism. It's not so much about specific groups or actions, it's about intent. Just be wary of those who rail against diversity or the common good. Hey - you could google your favorite areas of concern!
Progressive Actions
We would do well to encourage migration to the following...
- transparent goverment and business activity
- equal justice for all of humanity
- voting with our dollars
- smart growth perspectives
- (localized) organic gardening and farming
- community task forces to tackle community issues
- appropriate technology for less developed areas
- removing "person" status from corporations in US law
- absolute ban on virgin forest logging
- reduced dependency on oil
- non-violent conflict resolution, regardless of the conflict's nature.
Join with us. We're working on it.