The April 9 story on "clicktivism" has some great points on how individuals are increasingly using social media to act in common cause ("'Clicktivism' tests the might of a digital age"). Some in the article expressed fear that this could be a replacement for more meaningful acts of organizing, but it's really a new part of the process of social change.
For years we used lawn signs to try and show a groundswell of support for a candidate. Then lawn signs started sprouting for issues, and now we can have our virtual lawn signs on our digital properties. Lawn signs meant that the candidate or issue was important. Neighbors could see that there was something going on and decide whether to learn more.
I think our digital lawn signs are a way to say, "This matters to me — how about you?," and start a conversation. That's where real activism begins.
Steve boland, St. Paul
