How to be an activist: Laura Kuntz - cleveland.com

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Guest columnist Laura Kuntz is co-vice president of advocacy for the National Council of Jewish Women/Cleveland, an organization whose mission is to change the lives of women, children and families in the community.

Margaret Mead once said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world.”

These words hang on a bulletin board over my desk, and I see them every day as I sit down to call my elected officials, attend Zoom meetings and work to make a difference -- in other words, to be an activist. 

I’ve met a lot of other activists through my current role as co-vice president of advocacy at the National Council of Jewish Women/Cleveland (NCJW/CLE), a volunteer-based organization whose mission is to enhance the lives of women, children and families.

And like many other activists I’ve met, I started by reading about an injustice, learning more about it and seeking ways to help spur change.

These days, it seems like everyone is becoming an activist -- you see people daily on the news, speaking out and protesting with their feet: marching, chanting and holding signs. But there are other ways to be an activist and lend your voice to a cause in which you believe. 

So, where do you start and how do you get involved? Here are four things I have found to be true over the course of being an activist in many different places and at different times in my life:

Find your “why”: Why does this issue/cause have meaning for you? Is it because you have a personal story that connects to it or is it because you see an injustice that affects those in your community? Think about what’s pulling you toward this cause, because knowing what is motivating you to take action will sustain you. Activism is most definitely a marathon, not a sprint.

Educate yourself: Read articles, watch videos and ask questions of those who are working on the issue. 

Don’t be intimidated by what you don’t know: You don’t need to be an expert to use your voice. In fact, when speaking with elected officials, your story and connection to the issue are most meaningful and likely to leave a lasting impression.

Find your people: Find organizations that are focused on the work you are passionate about. Working together as a community amplifies everyone’s voice and provides support and friendship.

Being a part of NCJW/CLE has been one of the best gifts I have ever given myself. In addition to constantly working on those issues that are important to me, I’ve developed leadership skills and have learned so much. I’ve met amazing people, made lifelong friends and, most importantly, I am making a difference on issues that matter to me.

On Sept. 15, NCJW/CLE will host the actor/activist Kathy Najimy. Her words sum it all up: “People believe activists are born with a separate set of genes. But you don’t have to have gone to Yale or Harvard. All you have to do is identify the feeling of unrest in your gut.”

Readers are invited to submit Opinion page essays on topics of regional or general interest. Send your 500-word essay for consideration to Ann Norman at anorman@cleveland.com. Essays must include a brief bio and headshot of the writer. Essays rebutting today’s topics are also welcome.

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How to be an activist: Laura Kuntz - cleveland.com
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