Keeping passion and protest alive
Start the year as you mean to go on, says Steph Thomson
University is a time of opportunity. Whether a new or returning student, there are many societies that would be keen to have a new member. Societies give the chance to meet friends, explore new interests and gain skills. They also help members to form opinions about the world, at this, a formative time. This can only have the maximum effect, however, if the individual is willing to show a degree of commitment. Real change can only occur when those pursuing it are determined.
Many university groups and national movements have catchy slogans and persuasive members to draw in newcomers. The important thing is not to lose that initial momentum. Many people sign-up to a multitude of activities and quickly prioritise so that they focus on only a few. Whatever the number of societies supported, dedicated contribution to their development will be much valued.
The Make Poverty History campaign was launched with great fanfare and, less than a year later, is almost invisible. The celebrity faces have returned to their day jobs and once keen activists have stopped wearing their white bands. Their cause, however, has not been won. Many campaigns encounter this same problem. Interest can be gained but not maintained.
People do not stop caring about an issue; rather they are less aware of its continuing and evolving existence. The problem is, action often needs to be taken before an issue becomes pressingly publicised - and too late.
The protestors at the G8 summit this summer highlighted the mutual influence between global issues and every person. Passionate activists showed that demonstrating can be effective.
Ultimately, progress is made when an individual wants it to happen. Enthusiasm can oil the wheels of change
Steph Thomson
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