Category Archives: activism

Ending Malaria (Infographic)

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I love infographics. And there is no doubt that the Gates Foundation consistently has some of the best ones. On ending polio, boosting nutrition, explaining the benefits of breast feeding, and extolling the virtues of education. This one below on Malaria is equally powerful. This is a must-see. We need even more cause-based infographics to sharpen our focus of what’s being done to make a difference in every corner of the world.

GOOD Magazine also has some great ones, including one on the issue of water in developing nations. Nonprofits and charities don’t get the kind of attention in social media that they should. So if it take infographics and other tools to create awareness, then that’s awesome.

I’m an optimist and a realist. And I know we can put an end to malaria in our lifetime. (CLICK THE IMAGE below to see why millions are enthusiastic about the progress being made.)
  We Can End Malaria

Ann Curry’s great interview with Actor/Activist George Clooney

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The respect I have for George Clooney shot way through the roof this evening. The interview Ann Curry did with him was truly Must-See TV. The viewer got a chance to see the roots of Clooney’s generosity. I’ve always respected those celebrities who use what I call “the full equity of their fame” to make a difference in the world: Edward Norton, Don Cheadle, Barbara Streisand, Matt Damon, Whoopi Goldberg, Brad Pitt, etc. I love their activism, and I always promote their projects.

I don’t understand the belief that entertainment celebrities should not have a opinion on anything beyond movies and music. They care about the environment, pay taxes, and have a deep concern about the world future generations will inhabit.

Clooney and his buddy Brad Pitt believe that if the cameras are going to be on them, they should be socially responsible and try to focus our attention on issues not getting much-needed publicity. If you ask me, that’s a brilliant strategy.

Marc Parent and the Art of Twitter Activism

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This is cross-posted in the Huffingtonpost Technology Section.

This is the latest post in our series, Twitter Powerhouses, which focuses on the contributions of people who’ve helped to expand, influence, and redefine how we view social networking.

Throughout history, activists have used a wide range of tools to bring about change – economic, social, political and otherwise. Letter writing campaigns, marches, boycotts, and hunger strikes are just a few of the things used to make a strong impact. Indeed, Mahatma Gandhi, Cesar Chavez, Susan B. Anthony, Martin Luther King, and Rock the Vote‘s Maegan Carberry are just a few names that give vision and voice to the truly dynamic history of world activism.

Marc Parent, one of the most celebrated observers and activists on Twitter today, dedicates his thought-provoking feed to shining a spotlight on that history, and provides great links that are often the subject of great debate. If its happening in the world, it will likely show up on his feed. Parent has maximized his social media presence, allowing him to take full advantage of the huge Twitter stage on which hundreds of millions share their views.

What is a great activist, you ask? I’ll tell you: one who informs you of the issues, inspires you to take action, and empowers you to make a difference. And for years now, Marc Parent has been that activist. As you will read below, he is most certainly for real, and absolutely necessary.

How do you see your role as an online activist?

I have been into “activist blogging” for 10 years, and what a great field it is. As I learned the techniques to gather information and motivate readers, I found that many appreciated this service. Handling controversial material brings on loads of criticism and frequently censorship. I have learned the value of a trustworthy and known blogging platform. For me, Twitter has become this and so much more. Frankly, I am pleasantly surprised Twitter hasn’t ditched me (Laughs).

Speaking of Twitter, explain how it has helped you connect with both your fans and the issues you are passionate about?

Twitter posts cross the many boundaries between people and reach a much larger audience than on most well-known, social media platforms. Instant and positive reader responses to posts provide the comfort of knowing others are just as passionate about issues. No matter the country or continent, folks are incredibly engaged and hungry for the truth. If you want to create a deep, lasting connection with people, you have to be of value to them, and it’s a blessing that many value what I post.

How important is technology to your particular kind of activism?

I am driven and dedicated to providing enlightening commentary on politics, finance, media, society, government, and the internet. Technology gives me a connection to the vast network of media outlets and independent online sources. Armed with great information – some of which the mainstream media never touches – I have great hope that I can help change political systems and atiitudes for the better. My readers understand this. It is extremely rewarding to see them take action and use all of constructive tools available to them. I can’t tell you how much I love being an activist.

How would you describe yourself in 140 characters?

Persuer and sharer of truth that matters.

For more information on Marc Parent and the international issues that inspire and inform his activism, follow him on his Twitter feed and friend him on his Facebook page.

Author’s Note: In case you missed it, here’s Part 13 of the series: 16 Brilliant Business Minds on Twitter.