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Activism | Definition & meaning

What is activism?
Last update: Mar 30, 2022
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Activism is about taking action to create social change. Usually, you do this together with other people. Activism means the advocacy or active support of a cause, such as a political or social issue.

Check out our more elaborate article: What is activism?

What does activism mean?

Activism is working to bring about change in society, usually through protesting or campaigning. The word is often used in the context of protests but does not mean the same exact thingโ€”protests are just one form of activism. Rallying, writing letters, and making donations are all other ways to be an activist.

Where does the word activism come from?

The word activism comes from the German word Aktivismus and was first recorded around the early 1900s. It is a combination of active and the suffix -ism, which indicates a practice or doctrine.

How do I use โ€˜activismโ€™ in a sentence?

  • She engages in climate activism
  • Amnesty is a well known movement engaged in human rights activism

Synonyms activism

  • Advocacy
  • Campaigning
  • Change-making
  • Protesting
  • Rallying

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