The Best Way to "Make that Change"

[AKA2D '91]

During the 21st century, what do you feel is the best change agent?

1. Boycott
2. Petition
3. Rally/March
4. Other method (s) (tell us what it is)
5. None

We all know during the late 50's and during the 60's boycotts, rallies, and marches were the way to go. Are these methods still viable?

[Kymberly03]

I'd definately say boycott. Everything is all about everyone else (business depends on others, etc) so if you really want to take something down, don't participate.

[oneinamillion]

the best way to make that change is to boycott (like in the 60's when we carpool instead of getting on the bus). For instance, me not watching the Soul Train music awards this Sunday night. soul train will really feel it in the ratings...low ratings that is........
Now that might not be labled directly under boycott but it may be other methods.

[CrucialCrimson]

Those methods can bring local economies to their knees but in the global market they have less of an impact. Also when they are used for the trivial as well as serious issues, their impact is minimized - comparing not watching Soul Train because Ashanti is up for an award shouldn't even be mentioned in the same breath as not buying products of companies that supported Apartheid.

[straightBOS]

I say BOYCOTT.

In this age of information and multi-national companies, businesses are doing anything to find out what you want and sell it to you. With a boycott of their goods, services, or television shows, the public tells them that we do not want whatever they are selling.

Petitions are okay- if we are looking to put a question on a ballot, but besides generating press, they can do little to change the minds of today's businesses if there isn't a boycott to follow.

Rallies and marches have become so cliche that I doubt that most of them make national headlines. Also when they disrupt the commute of private citizens they generate annoyance and anger rahter than interest and sympathy.

[Dionysus]

I say boycott. However, I don't think there will be more change because the young black generation is MUCH MORE apathetic than the older ones. Some appear that they don't give a damn what happens.

[Steeltrap]

Disclaimer: No flames, please. JMO.

Boycotting is probably the most effective of the strategies mentioned at the beginning of the topic. That's because $$$$$ controls a lot of what's going on in society.

No matter what strategy is used, I think the most realistic goal is to reduce incidents -- if you are going to have these thoughts, keep it to yourself and don't act on it.

Racism, IMO, is a moral issue. You can't legislate morality.

[Sugar_N_Spice]

I agree w/ the masses: BOYCOTT...(Although that "by any means necessary does make me wnat to through my fist in the air & yell "Black Power"!)...

Everyone understands the color "Green"--that almighty $$$...It transcends all racial/ethnic/cultural/etc. barriers. If people don't give a company their business, then their voices will be heard and needs & desires will be met...

A petition, for something not very major or important (like the Soul Train Awards), is JUST A PIECE OF PAPER...No one really cares (it may generate a discussion, but I doubt much will be done about it)...

I do think rallies can be effective, but more so to make small-scale (local or state-wide changes)...

[oneinamillion]

Originally posted by CrucialCrimson
Those methods can bring local economies to their knees but in the global market they have less of an impact. Also when they are used for the trivial as well as serious issues, their impact is minimized - comparing not watching Soul Train because Ashanti is up for an award shouldn't even be mentioned in the same breath as not buying products of companies that supported Apartheid.

That's the key bringing them to their knees because when that's done it's time to come together and compromise(and that's what everybody wants when it's all said and done like an employee and a boss with differences) .....and as for me mentioning Ashanti that's a general example and it must be some kind of important. just ask the 20000+ petitioners. You can't dictate what is important and what isn't...your idea of what might be important maybe someone elses idea of what's not! Of course the deal with Soul Train won't save the world but the question from jump stated "what do you feel is the best change agent" it didn't specify for what (e.g. social, economic, financial, terrorism, HIV/Aids in Africa,etc.) It was a general question ask!

[DeTeRm1NaT1on]

I'd have to say boycott, but I have another one. FOLLOWING THROUGH WITH WHATEVER METHOD. Sometimes we (as people) can talk a good one, but don't follow through.