trend
Knowledge Based Activism
USING INFORMATION AND EDUCATION TO FIGHT FOR CHANGE
Greta Thunberg’s climate strike movement, and the rise of the Black Lives Matter activism show us that we can no longer “not know”. The knowledge for (in this case) climate change and systemic racism is out there, available to us since years ago. The best weapon for these times is learning and taking action.
Inclusivity, Black Lives Matter and the LGBTQ are movements that have been going on for the last couple of years, but the murder of George Floyd by American police, made these movements rise in popularity. The current Covid-19 pandemic made the movement even stronger.
We see social media coverage grow, but this time it goes beyond just leaving one mark on one single day (#blackouttuesday) more and more people are educating themselves and others. It is part of a bigger trend globally where people are fed up, and tired of years and generations of oppression.
They take the streets demonstrating against ether oppressors. Reclaiming their right to self-determination.
Sustainability has been hot for years now, but it always has been some sort of a luxury issue for most people. Governments aren’t really taking action. We feel the current pandemic could have changed things for the better.
During lockdown, you value nature and the outdoors more. Seeing the positive effect on air quality when there is no transport makes more people realize the importance of keeping our planet healthy.
Generation Z is leading quiet some movements. They don’t accept older generations making decisions for our planet anymore. This activism can get its way up to older generations and governments.
What is happening?
Parents are making an effort to educate themselves, breaking past barriers in order to give their children the knowledge and awareness of accepting themselves and everyone as they are. Raising babies and children with more sensitivity about the planet, nature, races, respect and diversity.
A rise in educational programs for schools to learn about racism, cultures, inclusivity and equity.
Having a diverse organization is not enough anymore, companies need to create inclusion and equity.
Brand activism is growing. Brands have to go beyond just making a statement they will take action. Patagonia is traditionally very strong in this but, with the BLM even Unilever stopped placing advertisement on Facebook after one of its brands Ben & Jerries banned advertisement.
On the other hand fake brand activism is seemingly falling apart.
More and more people stand up to their oppressors and claim equal opportunities for everyone.
Generation Z demands action and change from older generations to fight climate change.
Brands cannot get away with green washing anymore, because the consumers are more aware and informed.
Patagonias website is all activism
Unbeaten Studio’s design challenges for Knowledge Based Activism
“How can we turn activism into sustainable change and action?”
“How can we educate companies about brand activism in such away that they avoid green/ purpose washing?”
“How can we become better listeners and learn from to each other when we talk about topics such as racism & discrimination, feminism, climate action, freedom of speech etc.?”
“How can we create companies & organizations where employees feel at home and safe in order to truly be themselves?”
