December 4, 2008
Say It Loud. Say It Proud!
Lately I've been thinking about the power of social-networks as related to activism. In particular, I've been thinking about the power of influence. It seems to me that this is an important first step in any kind of activism. How effectively can you influence other people so that they rally behind your cause?
In order to influence other people however, you must first state your opinion. This is such a simple thing — speaking out loud — yet it's amazing how few people actually do it.
There is tremendous power in saying something out loud. Memes have an amazing way of spreading amongst the people who trust you; this is the basis of viral marketing. Take heed though — with great power comes great responsibility. Do your homework. Read differing opinions. Then form your own opinion. Once you've done this, it's time to be courageous and say it out loud. You just might be surprised by who you are able to influence.
Posted by Jason at 11:01 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
November 7, 2008
American Express Members Project Winner Announced
And the winner of the American Express' Member Project is...Alzheimer's Disease: Early Detection Matters. This project received over 24,101 'Top 5' votes and 15,527 'Top 25' votes. $1.5 million will be awarded to the Alzheimer's Association to run the project. The winner's project description:
The earlier people are diagnosed with Alzheimer's, the sooner they can get the help they need. Too few people know the ten early warning signs, and they need to understand when memory loss becomes a problem. I need your help to create and implement an education program to show the importance of seeking an early diagnosis of Alzheimer's, a progressive and fatal disease.
Visit Members Project to learn more.
Do you have a great idea that will change the world? Then apply for this competition next year. But remember, you don't have to wait...get started now!
Posted by Jason at 6:44 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
October 3, 2008
Who's Your Favourite Activist?
UPDATE: Thanks to FaceBook, I've been getting some great nominations for activists. Thanks to those who sent in their choice. Please keep them coming!
So I'm working on a new project, one that I hope will inspire the activist within everybody. It starts with knowing who inspires you. I want to know who is your favourite living activist. She/he can be in any field.
To share your favourite activist, please make a post here or send me an email at jason[at]akaactivist.org. Please use the following format when making your submission:
Name of activist
Area(s) of activism
What inspires you about this person or group? (optional)
Contact info for activist (if you have it)
Thanks for your help.
Jason
Posted by Jason at 8:09 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
August 25, 2008
Post-Olympic Wrap-up
As an athlete, I loved watching the Olympics — the performances, the human interest stories, the drama of competition...I love it!
Now that the Olympics are over, I'm left covered with the sticky residue of guilt. What about human rights issues in China? I feel like I simply forgot about them. Somehow the Chinese government was able to lower a cone of silence around the Olympic Village and shield it from all protests and criticism. It didn't accomplish this feat alone as the media played a crucial role in this astounding display of illusion. After wadding through countless commercials, most viewers were lead to believe that the biggest issue facing China is smog. Incredible!
That being said, I'm an educated man and [should] know better. Yet, I happily took my position alongside the three wise monkeys and forgot that activists where sequestered during the course of the Games. These brave and dedicated individuals were subsequently released after the closing ceremonies.
It should be very interesting to see the long-term impact of the Olympics on China. IOC President, Jacques Rogges, claims that awarding the Games to China has opened up the country. At first glance, this is a naive statement of the highest magnitude. On the other hand, maybe the aforementioned activists would have been killed as opposed to released hadn't it been for the watchful albeit distracted eyes of the world. Maybe.
So the $40 billion dollar question is: Will this amazing and troubled nation begin to take serious steps toward improving its policies on human rights? If left to the government, I seriously doubt it. On the other hand, people drive change and I believe that the Chinese people are ready for change. And for the rest of us? Well, the show is over. But don't you believe for a second there's nothing left to see. Human rights in China depends on our continued attention.
Links:
Posted by Jason at 9:33 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
February 5, 2008
Socially-conscious design
For those looking to support a number of causes AND sport a little style, check out the Allumonde ring. Design21 is a "network of non-profits, companies and individuals who believe social change can happen through design." I think I'm going to get the stainless steel version.
Posted by Jason at 10:02 AM | TrackBack
September 27, 2007
Heads Up: Vote Out Poverty
Vote out Poverty - A Rally for Social Justice in Ontario 
When: Monday, October 1, 2007
Time: 7:30pm - 10:30pm
Location:
Massey Hall
Street:
178 Victoria St.,Toronto
City/Town:
Toronto, ON
Thanks to Bronwyn for bringing this to my attention.
Posted by Jason at 12:42 PM
September 11, 2007
Businesswoman AKA Activist: Anita Roddick
This morning I was shocked to read that Anita Roddick, founder of The Body Shop, died of a brain hemorrhrage. She was 64 years old. 
The NY Times has a wonderful bio highlighting Mrs. Roddick's accomplishments both as an entrepreneur/businesswoman and as an activist. Sure, no one is perfect but in my opinion, Anita Roddick is pretty well deserving of the title AKA Activist.
Posted by Jason at 10:06 PM | Comments (0)
March 1, 2007
Follow-up: Bluenotes t-shirt pulled!
Hot off the press! The Toronto Star reports that Bluenotes has pulled its offensive "No Means Have Another Drink" t-shirt from its stores. It only took a couple of weeks...a public outcry and the threat of a boycott.
Congratulations to the Canadian Federation of Students who helped bring this story to national attention.
Another reminder that together, people can make a difference.
Posted by Jason at 6:18 AM | TrackBack
February 18, 2007
Boycott Bluenotes
If you read page nine of Saturday's Globe and Mail, you'll see a story about a t-shirt being sold at Bluenotes stores across Canada. The t-shirt reads "NO MEANS have aNOther drink", a despicable play on the anti-rape slogan, "No Means No."
If you know someone who has been a victim of date rape or just find the sale of this t-shirt reprehensible, I urge you to visit the Bluenotes website and make your feelings known. I especially urge my male friends to do this. Just think about your mother, your sister, your wife, your daughter. This is primarily a male problem. We (men) need to step-up and do our part to put an end to this social illness.
Below is a copy of the letter I sent to Bluenotes:
What were you thinking? Were you thinking at all? You know your decision is just plain wrong. You know that date rape is a serious social problem. What? Did your marketing department honestly think that even bad press would be good for the "brand"? Did you honestly think that this t-shirt was going to impact your bottom-line? You know something, it just might. I for one will not be buying anything from Bluenotes or any other Canadian YM Inc. operated store. Not only that, I plan on telling everyone I know that I think they should do the same.
Posted by Jason at 10:29 AM | TrackBack
December 27, 2006
"The Conversation"
This past Boxing Day, I went for a jog in Christie Pitts only to find a racist and ignorant message scrawled across the door of the rest room. At first I felt pissed-off and assaulted. Then I thought to myself, "F*ck that!!! Children play in this park. Elderly Korean men and women play croquet in this park. Latin youth play pick-up volleyball in this park. White and Black kids play basketball in this park. Decades ago there were race-riots in this park. My family played in this park. This is our park."
So...I decided to respond to this message.
Posted by Jason at 7:08 PM | Comments (3)
December 8, 2006
Reality Check
My mother-in-law sent this to me this morning. Talk about a reality check. It's a strange thing to feel insignificant and yet empowered. These numbers inspire me. Hopefully they will inspire you too.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
If we could shrink the earth's population to a village of precisely 100
people, with all the existing human ratios remaining the same, it would
look something like the following:
There would be:
57 Asians
21 Europeans
14 from the Western Hemisphere, both north and south
8 Africans
52 would be female
48 would be male
70 would be nonwhite
30 would be white
70 would be non-Christian
30 would be Christian
89 would be heterosexual
11 would be homosexual
6 people would possess 59% of the entire world's wealth and all
6 would be from
The United States of America
80 would live in substandard housing
70 would be unable to read
50 would suffer from malnutrition
1 would be near death; 1 would be near birth
1 (yes, only 1) would have a college education
1 would own a computer
When one considers our world from such a compressed perspective, the need
for acceptance, understanding and education becomes glaringly apparent.
The following is also something to ponder...
If you woke up this morning with more health than illness....you are more
blessed than the million who will not survive this week.
If you have never experienced the danger of battle, the loneliness of
imprisonment, the agony of torture, or the pangs of starvation you are
ahead of 500 million people in the world.
If you can attend a church meeting without fear of harassment, arrest,
torture, or death...you are more blessed than three billion people in the
world.
If you have food in the refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof overhead
and a place to sleep...you are richer than 70% of this world.
If you have money in the bank, in your wallet, and spare change in a dish
someplace . you are among the top 8% of the world's wealthy.
If you can read this message, you're more blessed than over two billion
people in the world that cannot read at all.
Give Thanks, Live in Joy and help those less fortunate as you are able.
Posted by Jason at 9:25 AM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
November 3, 2006
Morgan Freeman aka Activist
So I was on Yahoo's new Food site and I found an interview of Morgan Freeman under Celebrity Chow. Turns out Mr. Freeman has written a celebrity cookbook with proceeds going to the Grenada Relief Fund. In 2004, the island of Grenada was devastated by hurricane Ivan. The devastation was particularly acute as Grenadians were underprepared for a hurricane having not seen one in multiple decades. The Grenada Relief Fund's goal is to fund programs that improve hurricane preparedness and offer citizens training in non-agricultural jobs.
Good on you Mr. Freeman!
Posted by Jason at 9:53 AM | Comments (1)
October 20, 2006
Michael Thompson Hates Black People
There, I said it. Once again the highly quotable city councillor made a "brilliant" comment accusing Mayor Miller of paying young black men to attend a press conference on the government-funded Malvern Youth Community Employment Program. Not only did Thompson fail to note the names of these youth (Can someone explain to me how slander is defined in Canada?) but he also had the nerve to say that he was "concerned because it seemed as if these young boys, these young black boys, were being used as props for the mayor's re-election campaign." Really? I didn't know Michael Thompson was so concerned about the well-being of young black men. Last I checked, Thompson was trying to table the idea of permitting police to “target” young black men at random as a way to curb gun violence in the city (Can someone remind Michael Thompson of the definition of racial profiling, please?)
Michael Thompson is a supporter of Mayoral candidate, Jane Pitfield, Mayor Miller's chief competition. Despite his claim to the contrary, Michael Thompson puts his politics ahead of the well-being of Toronto's Black community. He did it when the city was paralyzed by gun violence, and he's doing it again as the mayoral race kicks into high gear.
So why does Michael Thompson hate Black people? Because if he didn't, he would never, ever use race to further his own political agenda, full period stop. (Can some please remind Thompson of the meaning of the phrase, "the pot calling the kettle black"?)
Posted by Jason at 10:57 AM | Comments (4) | TrackBack
October 6, 2006
Heads Up: Trash Festival
For those in the Toronto area:
You can learn more about the festival here.
Posted by Jason at 4:06 PM | TrackBack
September 19, 2006
Vindication for Arar
INNOCENT
The commission report is out...Maher Arar is an innocent man.
I honestly believe that this is one of the most important stories in Canadian history. This story has as much to do with Canadian sovereignty as it does justice. Maher Arar is Canadian. He was tortured by Syrians and victimized by the RCMP. Do not for a second believe that this could not have happened to you. Clearly, our security, our sovereignty as Canadians is subject to the political whims and zealotry of our U.S neighbours. The question is...what are we going to do about it?
If you are a Canadian and you care about this country, take the time to read how an innocent Canadian was done wrong by those who where supposed to protect him.
If you're Canadian and you care about this country, do not let Stephen Harper brush this story aside. This is not the time for politics. The lives of every Canadian depend on swift and decisive leadership to ensure that this never happens again.
Posted by Jason at 9:37 AM | Comments (2) | TrackBack
August 25, 2006
In China, the price of activism remains high
A sad and disturbing read in the Globe and Mail today. Legal activist, Chen Guangcheng, was sentenced to a four+ year sentence for "willfully damaging property and organizing a mob to disturb traffic." Human rights groups have condemned the ruling and argue the charges are in retaliation for Guangcheng's actions in exposing the government's illegal population control tactics on the poor.
The sad part is that the government admits its wrong-doing but it clearly wants to make the point that it will be the only one to air its dirty laundry. I only hope Guangcheng's family is able to win an appeal, though I seriously doubt it.
Posted by Jason at 9:48 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
August 20, 2006
Back in the saddle
After a six month layoff, AKA Activist is back online!
Looking forward to making this blog bigger and better than ever.
I'm looking to add more audience participation, so please send along any stories you stumble upon or ideas you want to share.
Thanks for everyone's patience.
Posted by Jason at 4:21 PM
February 15, 2006
Cool Opportunity: Pole to Pole Leadership Institute
Pole to Pole is back!
In 2000, a international team of youth made a human-powered journey from the North Pole to the South Pole. Along the way they participated in projects for social change, gave lectures and inspired the lives of many.
In 2006 a new team of youth will make the journey, this time from the South Pole to the the North Pole. A quote from the site,
The purpose of Pole to Pole Journey 2 is larger than the journey itself. In addition to the Expedition Teams, international youth will be selected for both the Pole to Pole Advance Teams working with local, national and international charities on social, environmental and sustainable economic projects; and for the Pole to Pole Educational Ambassador Teams, teaching leadership and community involvement skills to world youth.
The Pole to Pole Expedition Teams, Advance Teams and Educational Ambassador Teams will raise the bar for world youth by challenging, training and inspiring them to become leaders in their communities and global citizens in their thinking. This journey is to set an example for youth around the world that they, like the Pole to Pole Teams, can take on huge challenges, and with training, personal leadership and perseverance, they will succeed.
Want to be a part of this amazing journey? Visit The Pole to Pole Leadership Institute. Ah, to be 25yrs old again!
Posted by Jason at 1:30 PM
January 23, 2006
A Friendly Reminder to VOTE!!!!!!
'nuff said.
Posted by Jason at 9:56 AM
December 16, 2005
Happy Anniversary!
Has it been a year already? Wow.
I hope you found AKA Activist informative and inspiring.
Next year I plan on introducing some original content sprinkled in with the links and commentary.
Thanks to everyone who sent in comments and hipped me to articles. Keep 'em coming.
Happy holidays!!!!
Jason
Posted by Jason at 10:54 AM | TrackBack
December 9, 2005
IMF Approves Debt Relief Plan
Say what you will about the IMF and World Bank's role in the steady decline of the world's poorest countries, but the approval of this debt relief package is a step in the right direction. The $4.8 billion U.S package will cancel the debts of 20 of the world's poorest countries accrued since the end of 2004. Some of the countries affected include Benin, Bolivia, Burkina Faso, Zambia, Uganda, Cambodia, Tajikistan, Ethiopia, Ghana, Madagascar, Honduras, Guyana, Senegal, Nicaragua, Rwanda, Niger and Mali.
Unfortunately, many political hurdles need to be cleared in order for this plan to take effect. All 43 participating countries need to approve the transfer of funds to a special trust for the debt relief. A daunting task, but let's hope this legal requirement doesn't throw a wrench in the IMF plan.
I've included a couple of links that discuss the plan from an African perspective. Both articles applaud the plan but warn that it will not be enough to turn around the continent. They call for serious reform to end the cycle of corruption that has hamstrung many African governments.
Posted by Jason at 11:58 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
December 2, 2005
FYI: Habitat Jam
Only 2 days left. Register now!
Posted by Jason at 10:21 AM | TrackBack
November 18, 2005
Defining Reparations: Canada's Chinese Head Tax
It would appear the fight for redress over the Chinese Head Tax has scored its first victory. The federal government has agreed to pay $12.5 million toward the development of a Chinese Canadian Community Foundation. The deal was negotiated with the National Congress of Chinese Canadians.
A quick history lesson: Chinese immigrants were instrumental in the construction of one of Canada's greatest achievements: the Canadian Pacific Railway. Most historians agree the CPR was one of the great steps toward unifying the nation.
Upon completion of the railway, Canada imposed a $50 head tax on Chinese immigrants (1885). In 1903, the amount was raised to $500 -- equivalent to about two years wages. And if that weren't enough, in 1923 the government imposed the Exclusion Act. The Exclusion Act barred Chinese immigrants from entering the country altogether, effectively preventing Chinese workers from reuniting with their families left back in China. The Act was repealed in 1947. In total, the Canadian goverment collected over $23 million in head taxes.
There is however opposition to the recent agreement. Organizations such as the Chinese Canadian National Council (CCNC) and the Ontario Coalition of Head Tax Payers and Families feel this move toward redress is far from satisfactory. They argue the deal does not compensate individual families, nor contain the necessary apology language. It would appear the fight for full redress continues.
If you'd like to learn more about this dark period in Canadian history, you should check out the documentary film In The Shadow Of Gold Mountain.
You can also learn more by visiting the Chinese Canadian National Council (CCNC)
Posted by Jason at 9:48 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
November 15, 2005
Re: My Vote Is Not For Sale
As promised, you can listen to The Current episode I mentioned here.
Posted by Jason at 12:09 PM | TrackBack
November 14, 2005
My vote is not for sale!
This morning, the CBC's The Current featured two economist debating a controversial economic theory. The theory posits that the act of voting has no inherent economic value. In essence, voters would be better off staying at home and using their time elsewhere as that time could be better spent (economically speaking of course). I'll try and find the full details once it's posted on the CBC website.
Whether or not you accept this theory (I certainly don't), I find it interesting in the context of the Liberal government's soon to be released Economic Update. The "update" promises billions of dollars in income tax breaks, corporate tax cuts, financial incentives for small businesses and increased support for immigration. Sounds good to me (at least in theory). There is one problem though...the timing of its release.
This "Economic Update" comes days/weeks before an impending call for a federal election. This is a thinly veiled attempt to garner voter support. I cry bullsh*t. My vote is not for sale!!!
This kind of political maneuvering is bad for Canada. It panders to our short-term political memory and rewards governing by soundbite. I know many will argue that this is just good political strategy, but just because you can, doesn't mean you should.
Clearly, our vote is extremely valuable in the eyes of politicians. We should not forget this. Whether or not you believe this Economic Update is good for Canada, make sure you let the Liberals (and all politicians for that matter) know that they have to earn your vote, not buy it. Let's not cheapen our democracy.
Technorati tags: Canadian Politics,Economic Update,Liberal Party
Posted by Jason at 12:08 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
November 7, 2005
Sleep-out in Solidarity on November 19th
Saw this post on Craigslist:
Do you get tired of being asked for money every time you pass a homeless person? Do you get tired of being asked for change on your way to dinner at your favourite restaurant? Or on your way home?
I ask these questions because homeless people are people. They shouldn’t be ignored. We don’t know how they got on the streets nor can we generalize or become desensitized to them. Many of them do not want to remain there. They want the same things you do -- the things you already have: a home, three square meals a day, a job, a bed to sleep on, a chance to eat at a restaurant now and then. Even the simple things we take for granted like getting a haircut or a hot shower.
I am a volunteer for a group named Humanize Toronto (www.humanizetoronto.org). We’re organizing a “Sleep-out in Solidarity” at City Hall on November 19, 2005 from 9 pm to 9 am.
Now before you start to protest or think it’s far too cold to stay outside from 9 pm to 9 am on a November night, think about where you’ve slept the other 364 days. In a warm bed, I’m sure. Okay, maybe some of you roughed it and went camping for a few days earlier this year. However, you chose to do this.
Most homeless people do not choose to be there. They don’t choose to run away from abusive parents. They don’t choose to be kicked out of psychiatric wards and hospitals shut down by the Tories and Liberals. They don’t choose to squeeze the last of their RRSPs to pay this month’s rent because they lost their job and can’t find another.
My point is there are so many factors that lead to the number of people we see on the streets.
Well, I’m not asking for your money. Just your time. I’m asking for you to sleep somewhere else for one night out of 364 on Saturday November 19, 2005. We’ve stayed out partying, raving, having sex, etc., so it’s not like we can’t do this…together.
I’m inviting you to come out for one night, to bring a sleeping bag, a toque, mittens, some snacks, an instrument if you want (or cards and friends) and some resilience. We’re providing hot coffee, a bite to eat, music and chance to do something about a problem we see everyday but feel powerless (or maybe apathetic) about changing. You might be too busy to do it – but even if you come for a few hours it’ll help.
We’re doing this to get (and hold) the mayor’s attention. We just want the mayor and city council to cement a plan with an actual timeline (because they have made empty promises and created "plans" that haven't come to fruition). The only way to get an actual (accountable) plan in place is to get a significant number of people to show some solidarity by sleeping out on Saturday November 19 at 9 pm at City Hall because I do believe there’s a grain of truth to the adage, Strength in numbers.
(For more information, please visit www.humanizetoronto.org.)
Posted by Jason at 4:07 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
October 17, 2005
TED Prize Winners Announced
What's TED?
Well, TED stands for Technology, Entertainment and Design. More specifically, TED is an annual conference that brings together a wide spectrum of "thinkers and doers for inspiration."
The folks at TED have announced this year's TED prize winners. They include:
Cameron Sinclair, co-founder of Architecture for Humanity
Larry Brilliant, founder of the Seva Foundation
Jehane Noujaim, documentary film-maker (Control Room, Startup.com)
I'm inspired. Hope you will be too.
Posted by Jason at 7:33 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
October 12, 2005
One to Look Out For: Right To Play
I've been meaning to hip readers to this organization for a while.
Right To Play is a humanitarian organization that develops and runs sport and play programs to encourage the physical, social and emotional development of the world’s most disadvantaged children. Right To Play is supported by Olympic and Professional athletes as well as a growing number of volunteers.
As a former athlete, I sincerely believe in the power of athletic participation and its ability to positively impact a person's life. Support this org! Give this site a visit and tell others about it.
Check out the PSA here.
Posted by Jason at 1:18 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
October 4, 2005
Jenny Holzer: Art As Activism
American artist, Jenny Holzer and the public arts organization, Creative Time, will continue Ms. Holzer's artistic commentary on 9/11 and more recently the federal response(?) to Katrina this week.
Holzer will project U.S. government documents (many from 9/11 briefs) and the poems of twenty international poets on the facades of five buildings including the Rockefeller Center; the Bobst Library at NYU (Oct. 3 through 5); and the public library (Oct. 6 through 9). Read this NYT piece to learn more.
I wish I could experience this exhibit myself but travelling to New York just isn't in the cards. I'd love it if someone out in the NY area could send their thoughts (and images) on the exhibit.
Posted by Jason at 10:18 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack
September 2, 2005
Please give what you can
Posted by Jason at 9:31 AM
August 16, 2005
Michael Thompson on Urban Gun Violence
“It's offensive, rude and inappropriate. Whoever thought of that is a complete idiot.”
- Criminal lawyer Aston Hall
Simply put, Toronto has a burgeoning gun violence problem. No, it's not New York or LA but it's a problem and it's not going away. Fortunately, Toronto has a lot of bright people working on this issue. Councillor Michael Thompson (below) is not one of them.
Here's a link to Thompson's "insightful" proposal on how to deal with the issue.
Here is a short but sweet op-ed from a friend discussing Thompson's views:
Hi all,
In today's coverage on "The War on Guns", City TV interviewed Counsellor Michael Thompson, asking this city counsellor for his views on how to implement and enforce gun control in the city.
I gotta say, folks, never have I been so proud to have a fellow minority in a position of power, representing the true ideals of people of colour in the City. Counsellor Thompson's idea begins with stopping black people, mostly black males, in the streets of Toronto (on foot and in cars) and asking them if they are carrying guns.
Perhaps we should call this initiative "STOP", or
S - Stop
T - Toronto's
O - (most) Obvious
P - Perpetrators
I assume this means that Counsellor Thompson is exempt from this...or has he forgotten that he, too, is a black man? Is there some type of swipe card mechanism that he has which enables him to engage in automatic bypassmode?
Anyhow, someone should alert Mr. Thompson that a program such as this already exists. We coloured folk know it by a different name. It's called
R-A-C-I-A-L P-R-O-F-I-L-I-N-G
Shana
Posted by Jason at 10:37 AM | Comments (1)
July 13, 2005
Funding Opp: Peace Child International
Received this email from Taking IT Global. Please feel free to pass it along.
---------------------------------------------------------
Dear TIG Member:
We wanted to pass along this opportunity for you to apply for funding for an idea or project you might have:
Peace Child International, the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) and Lloyds TSB Foundation for Scotland are working together to set up an international fund to support 40-50 youth-led development projects costing $500 - $1,000 designed chiefly to benefit the most disadvantaged in society.
This fund will be distributed at the World Youth Congress event in Stirling, Scotland on Saturday 6th August – assuming that there are enough projects of sufficient quality submitted from developing countries or emerging economies.
So if you have a well-thought-out, well-researched small project that you have always wanted to do, please visit this link:
http://surveys.takingitglobal.org/survey.html?SurveyID=32
Fill out the application form online and submit it by July 29th – sooner if possible. And, if possible. send a digital photograph of the location of your project so that we can see immediately what it is that you want to do. (see instructions on web page)
We look forward to receiving your project ideas.
Sincerely,
TakingITGlobal, on behalf of:
David R. Woollcombe
Founder, Peace Child International
For any questions about this fund, please contact: david@peacechild.org
Posted by Jason at 11:23 AM
June 23, 2005
Putting Your Money Where Your Values Lie
A very nice post by marketing guru, Seth Godin. In My money, your cause, what now? Godin ponders the challenges facing consumers when faced with spending their money on people and companies involved in ethically questionable practices.
I kinda wish he'd shed some light on why he thinks years of consumer apathy is going to change.
Posted by Jason at 3:37 PM | Comments (1)
June 22, 2005
Today was a good day
Many of you have asked me about the status of my 17yr old brother-in-law who was shot a couple of months ago. First of all let me say thank you so much for your concern and support; it really does mean a lot to me.
As for my brother-in-law, after 60+ days in the ICU, we just received the wonderful news that he will be moved to a "step-down" care facility this week. His road to recovery will still be long and difficult but this is a fantastic first step.
The title of this blog is AKA Activist, yet I feel like I haven't been one lately. I guess I'm still trying to figure out what I can do to reduce gun violence in my city. Over the last two months, I've witnessed a number of other young men become victims of gun violence. This dangerous trend needs to stop. I'm thinking of developing a number of PSA's (I'm an interactive designer) but maybe there are better ideas. If you have any, please feel free to share them here.
Again, thank you for your support.
Posted by Jason at 1:04 PM
June 3, 2005
People v. Apple: Consumer Activism in Action
As a former fan of Apple (yes, the love affair is over but I still like their products), I'm pleased to report that a tentative settlement on a class-action lawsuit has been met. Although you probably hadn't heard about it as the media was in love with the iPod too, many 1st through 3rd generation iPods shipped with a defective battery; one that failed to last as long as Apple's claims.
Apparently, the suit started with eight consumers and grew. The settlement will offer a $50 voucher and extended warranty to those who file a claim.
As for why I'm a former fan: my iPod died after downloading firmware sent to me by Apple as an update. My warranty had expired and Apple suggested I pay to get it assessed or buy a new one since the prices were comparable.
A quick scan of iPod forums on the Net showed that my problem wasn't an isolated one. When I complained on Apple's discussion forum, my thread was promptly shut down. So much for customer service.
Maybe after today, Apple will think twice about dismissing their fan base.
Posted by Jason at 9:39 AM
May 20, 2005
Power to the People
As many Canadians are aware (and you should be if you're not), the minority government survived a non-confidence vote by the narrowest of margins (one vote). Quite an ending to this political soap opera. Of all the stories that sprung from the build-up, the actions of Chuck Cadman, an independent, should stand out the most.
After Belinda Stronach, a Conservative, crossed over to the Liberals, the political die had been set -- it would come down to the votes of the three independents. Most knew that Carolyn Parrish would vote in favour of the government. Although she hates Paul Martin, her distain for the Conservatives runs even deeper. Odds were David Kilgour would most likely vote against the government. Kilgour became an independent in reaction to his disgust with the Liberal Party and the sponsorship scandal. Chuck Cadman however took a different approach to making his decision: he polled his constituency. How about that?! A politician actually asked the people he represents what they thought.
In an era where political superstars are made or bought; where partisan politics are deemed more important than the will of the people; and political ambition is masqueraded as conscience, Cadman's decision making process is like a breath of fresh air. Inevitably, the public will forget about the roles people played in this historical vote. But in the meantime, let's not forget that regular people can still make a difference in the running of our country. We can thank Chuck Cadman for reminding us.
Posted by Jason at 2:17 PM
May 18, 2005
HeadsUp: $1000 Grants for youth projects
Please pass this along to anyone you think might be interested:
Want to help your community or change the world? Need some funds and support to help get things going? Youth Service America (YSA) and Youth Venture can help! YSA and Youth Venture are teaming up again to make everyday National Youth Service Day (NYSD).
In conjunction with NYSD we’re offering funding to enable young people to engage in community service and make a difference in their world. Turn your NYSD 2005 project into a sustainable community service venture or create new sustainable projects for NYSD 2006, April 21 st-23 rd. Twenty awards of up to $1,000 in start-up funds are available to young people (ages 12-20) who want to create sustainable new, civic-minded organizations, clubs or businesses (“Ventures”). These Ventures must be created by youth, youth-led and designed to be a lasting asset to the community. YSA Youth Venturers are required to host a NYSD event.
Applications are available at www.youthventure.org/ysa. Applications must be received by 12:00 noon on June 13, 2005 . Email myoung@youthventure.org or call 202.296.2992 ext 17 with questions.
What's your passion? You DREAM IT and we'll help you DO IT.
Youth Venture is a movement of young people who are changing their communities through youth social entrepreneurship. Youth Venture provides access to scholarships, awards, special conference invitations, media opportunities, workshop training, and a national network of active young people. In addition YSA Youth Venturers have access to all NYSD planning materials and tip sheets through YSA to plan your National Youth Service Day event.
YSA Youth Venture teams have done everything from using a theatre to provide a positive activity for urban youth to running park clean-ups. Our Venturers have been featured in Forbes, Teen People and Urban Teen Scene.
Posted by Jason at 10:48 AM
April 21, 2005
The Games Our Children Play
In the early hours of Tuesday morning I was awoken by the ringing of my phone. At first I thought I was dreaming but the repetitive rings had that eerie sense of urgency. I answered the phone and was given the following news: My 17 year old brother-in-law was shot point blank in the stomach. His chances of survival were next to none. The shooter was also a teenager; age 16. I sat there unable to move as if someone had just unplugged me.
Over the next 48 hours, I would become witness to unbelievable pain and suffering. I'd also witness unwavering love and support for a young man who needed a miracle...one that he would receive.
In a time where violence is glorified; where hip hop stars boast of the number of bullets that have pierced their flesh; where the top selling video games are about robbing and murder; where the military markets war to young men and women; I am here to tell you that there is absolutely no glory in what happened to my brother-in-law. This act of violence can only be described as gruesome and horrendously painful.
Picture a young man's chest and stomach opened to the world. His body swollen, no longer a young athletic dynamo but a near lifeless shell. Blood soaked the sheets of his hospital bed. The faces of his family contorted with agony, with the thought that they would lose their beloved brother and son. There is absolutely no glory in this whatsoever.
How could this have happened? This is the question that surfaces in a sea of sadness. The answer is undoubtedly complex. Lack of family support and guidance for the young offender. The apparent ease of acquiring a gun. The glorification of violence in our media. All of these precipitated this terrible act.
It is important to reiterate that this is not a story of urban youth and gangland retribution. This tragedy happened to middle-class teens in a "nice" neighbourhood. There is no hiding from this. No one is immune from this social illness. No amount of money nor distance from a city can protect you or the ones you love. As a witness to this tragic event, I am asking you, no, begging you to act...now. Don't support media that glorifies murder. Talk to your political representatives about gun laws. More importantly, hold them accountable. Support programs that give youth positive outlets to express themselves. Most importantly, talk to young people. The stakes are way too high not to.
I decided to include a spoken word piece along with this post. If you like it, please pass it along and ask that the person retell this story. Fortunately, this story had a happy ending. I shudder at how easily it could have gone the other way. Such was the case for another teen shot that very same night.
The Games Our Children Play (aka The Evolution)
Bitch!
Bitch? Who you callin' bitch? Bitch!!
It used to be about cops and robbers
It used to be about cowboys and indians (Native Americans, First Nations)
And now out of the mouths of babes comes,"Keepin' it real."
Very live
extremely direct
In the absence of thought
violence takes root in the mind
Punk!
Punk?
Why'd you hit my brother, punk?
I didn't touch your brother, punk!!!
The slap/crack of flesh against bone against flesh
The sound of young hands wielding misguided manhood
Look ma! Check my new skillz (creating conflict)
Small hands sometimes
kill
while shattering illusions of being a man
And in a puddle of salty tears
violence
begins to grow in the heart
Fuck you!
Fuck me? Fuck you!!
A drive-by
A Columbine High
A nation left to ponder why
But we know why
And yet it's so easy to blame technology
Let's just...
"Get the guns off the street."
Let's just...
"Place metal detectors in our children's schools."
Let's just...Face reality
It's time to redefine our sense of
community
Scientists say,
"evolution"
is a result of changes within our environment
They say
that which is unnecessary
is rendered obsolete
Violence can be rendered obsolete
But only if
our communities change
the games our children play
Posted by Jason at 4:52 PM | Comments (3)
April 14, 2005
The Dope Poet Society in DC
After yesterday's post, I decided to pass along this concert plug for those in the Washington, DC area. If you want to see conscious hip hop in action, check out The Dope Poet Society. You can find out more by visiting www.jlr1.com
Just a quick note to let y'all know that The Dope Poet Society will be doing a crazy series of shows in Washington DC over the next several days surrounding the protests against the IMF and The World Bank.The happenings kick off with a kick ass concert tonight featuring The Dope Poet Society with M-1 of Dead Prez, A-Alikes, Head-Roc and more.
The list of events is posted below.
The new album, PROINTELPRO is in stores across Canada, and with virtually no promotion budget, the album is on the verge of making record breaking sales for an independent Canadian Hip Hop group. If you're down with conscious Hip Hop, make sure you help the movement grow by picking up this album and helping to spread the word about it.Hold tight.
THE RADICALS TAKE THE CAPITAL April 13-18
The Dope Poet Society in Washington DC
A series of performances in and around the protest against IMF and
The World Bank. The Dope Poet Society have been invited to
perform at the following events:April 13 Mwazi Wednesdays
April 14 Concert w/ M-1 of Dead Prez, The Head-Roc War Machine, A-Alikes and more
Both events at Cafe Mawanaj 624 T St NW DC (1 block from Howard University)April 16 Performance at the protest, 3PM, in Dupont Circle
April 16 Hard Life Ent. Video Shoot, Island Cafe at 829 Upshur Street NW
April 16 Evening Concert Location TBA
April 17 Afternoon Concert Location TBA
April 17 Evening Concert Location TBA
April 18 DC Guerrilla Poetry Insurgency, in Dupont Circle
Posted by Jason at 9:26 AM
April 12, 2005
Terry Fox: 25 Years of Inspiration
If you're Canadian, then you probably know the name Terry Fox. Twenty five years ago today, Terry Fox began his Marathon of Hope in St. John's, Newfoundland. Over the course of 143 days, this cancer patient turned international hero ran 5,373 kilometres or 3,339 miles to raise awareness and money for cancer research. To give you some perspective, that's a marathon a day!!! And for those who have never heard of Terry Fox, Terry only had one leg.
Unfortunately, Terry had to abandon his goal of running from coast to coast as his bone cancer spread throughout his body. He died a few months later at the young age of 22yrs.
To date, sixty countries hold their own Terry Fox Run. Over $360 million dollars have been raised in Terry's honour. In a nation-wide poll, Terry Fox was named the second greatest Canadian ever.
Please visit The Terry Fox Foundation website to learn more about this extraordinary human being.
Posted by Jason at 9:03 PM
March 9, 2005
Jill "Butterfly" Hill: Hardcore Environmentalism
I was hanging around Indigo Bookstore when I saw this new magazine called Plenty. The mag has a piece entitled, "Five For The Future." Didn't buy the mag (I should) but visited its website. Check out this profile on Jill "Butterfly" Hill, a 30yr old environmentalist who staged a protest by sitting in an old growth forest redwood for two years!!! Now that's some serious commitment to the cause.
Posted by Jason at 12:17 PM
February 9, 2005
Quote of the Day
"Be the change you wish to see in the world."
- Ghandi
Posted by Jason at 10:28 AM
February 3, 2005
Quarters From Kids on MTV's TRL
Today, Quarters From Kids will appear in the guest audience of MTV's popular show Total Request Live (TRL). I wonder how they pulled this off? In any case, what a powerful way to get the word out about your organization and its cause.
Unfortunately, Canada doesn't have MTV hence I can't watch today's TRL. Maybe someone out there can tell me how this special edition of TRL comes off. Thanks.
Some more details...
Dear Friends of Quarters From Kids,
I want to share some exciting news regarding Quarters From Kids!
Thursday at 5 p.m. EST/PST, 40 Quarters From Kids youth from 10 different coalition partner organizations will make up the audience of a special edition of MTV's Total Request Live.
As you may know, TRL is one of MTV's most popular programs, and Thursday they are airing a special episode on the tsunami. Quarters From Kids was chosen to fill the studio audience so that MTV could highlight the efforts of youth nationwide that are raising money to help the relief and rebuilding efforts in tsunami struck countries.
Organizations representing Quarters From Kids include City Heroes Alumni, City Year New York, College Summit, Do Something, Family, Career & Community Leaders of America, Henry Street School , High School for Global Citizenship, NetAid, and Youth Philanthropy Worldwide.
I am writing to personally urge you to watch tomorrow's TRL, to urge your friends to watch, and if you haven't already done so, to urge everyone you know to sign up at the Quarters From Kids website ! Thank you so much for all you've done to help relieve suffering, save lives and aid in the long-term recover of the children and adult survivors of the tsunami.
We have already accomplished much and, with your help, the coalition is growing every day.
Yours in service,
Rick Jakious
Quarters From Kids Coalition
www.quartersfromkids.org
617.927.2415-direct
360.608.6534-cell
Posted by Jason at 10:02 AM
January 29, 2005
Job Posting: Program Officer (Youth) Ms. Foundation for Women
Found this on the INNOVATE Listserver:
Greetings!
Attached please find a job posting for the Program Officer position in the Youth Program area at the
Deadline for applications: Jan 29th, 2005.
______________________________
Adria Robbin
Program Associate for Youth Program & Development
Ms. Foundation for Women
120 Wall Street, 33rd Floor
New York, NY 10005
t> 212.709.4403
f> 212.742.1653
e> arobbin@ms.foundation.org
w> www.ms.foundation.org
Posted by Jason at 10:36 AM
January 21, 2005
Revolution to Pacification: The Death of Zhao Ziyang
Though you won't hear it from any Chinese media sources, former Communist Party Leader Zhao Ziyang died Monday after spending fifteen years under house-arrest. For those who remember the Tiananmen Square protests and subsequent massacre (tanks bulldozed hundreds of protesting students), Zhao broke from his party's hardline and made a passionate plea in defense of the protesters. His insolence proved politically fatal.
BBC News World has a great site covering Zhao Ziyang and the history of democratic reform in China. Particularly compelling is a piece on the new generation of youth in China. A quote:
"I think many young people like me pay less attention to politics, and more attention to living better and economic improvement. They don't care about politics in China."
Funny, you could exchange "USA" or "Canada" into that quote and it would still ring true. It would appear that for all the "good" that democracy can bring to a society, apathy and indifference are the insidious biproducts. Last time I checked, MTV China didn't exist so so much for Rock the Vote.
As the West circles China like vultures hoping to exploit unprecedented economic opportunities, the future doesn't look bright for non-trivial issues like human rights.
Posted by Jason at 9:45 AM | Comments (1)
January 11, 2005
Radio Free Africa
You may have already heard about the Freeplay Foundation and its revolutionary self-powered radios. If not, then you should know that this org is a great example of how simple but elegant ideas can make a huge impact on the lives of those in need.
Founded by the Freeplay Energy Group (FEG) the Freeplay Foundation provides self-powered radios to the world's poor (especially women and children) with the goal of facilitating "sustained access to information and education".
For those of us in the developed world, it is easy to forget that much of the developing world has yet to make a phone call nor has the means to purchase or maintain a radio (ex. buying batteries). For much of the world, radio is still the most powerful medium for mass communication. Visit the "Latest News" section of the Freeplay Foundation website to read two inspiring stories of how orphaned children in AIDS stricken Zambia and war-torn Rwanda are using Freeplay Lifeline radios to continue their education.
Posted by Jason at 1:09 PM
December 14, 2004
Welcome to aka Activist!
Welcome to aka Activist, a new blog for the activist within everyone. My name is Jason and I run an educational new media company called PlanetYou.
AKA Activist is my attempt to collect and share stories about people trying to make a difference in the world. It's also about disseminating information that you don't normally see in the mainstream press. Like the tagline says: Inspiration. Information. Education. Hopefully through reading this blog, you'll get inspired, feel empowered to improve your community, champion a cause or charity, or just have an informed conversation about the world and the potential solutions to make it a better place. My name is Jason Robinson aka Activist. Now you try it.
Posted by Jason at 8:14 PM