The hottest Activism Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics

Things To Do Before Trump Takes Office

OK Doomer • 171 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism
  1. Be prepared for real changes when Trump takes office. These changes will affect everyone personally, so it's better to act now.
  2. Many people believe 2030 is a key year to have plans in place. It's important to focus on surviving these next few years under a challenging regime.
  3. Contributing ideas and discussions can help build a helpful list of actions to take. Sharing strategies now can make a difference later.

When Kellie-Jay Keen comes to New Zealand, we women will be looking out for each other.

A B’Old Woman • 219 implied HN points • 05 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism
  1. Kellie-Jay Keen is coming to New Zealand for her 'Let Women Speak' tour, and women plan to support each other during the events. It's important to be united and look out for one another.
  2. There have been incidents of harassment from activists during similar events in other countries, which raises concerns about safety. Women, especially the elderly and disabled, need protection from intimidation.
  3. Past experiences show that activisting groups can be aggressive, making it crucial for women to be prepared and aware of each other when attending such events. Safety in numbers and awareness can help prevent harassment.

Art and Revolution

KERFUFFLE • 65 implied HN points • 31 May 25
🎭️ Culture Activism
  1. Politics can ruin art and journalism by turning them into propaganda instead of genuine expression. When artists and journalists focus too much on their political beliefs, their work loses its depth and creativity.
  2. The lines between art, journalism, and politics are blurring, which can lead to a lack of authenticity in both fields. Artists and journalists often feel pressured to conform to a certain narrative or political agenda.
  3. Art should aim to explore the complexities of human experience, rather than delivering clear-cut moral lessons. Good art reflects the richness of life, while political narratives can oversimplify and distort reality.

New Zealand’s year of gender ideology in 2022

A B’Old Woman • 239 implied HN points • 05 Jan 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism
  1. In 2022, New Zealand adopted laws related to gender identity, including the Conversion Practices Prohibition Legislation, which makes it illegal to change or suppress someone's gender identity or sexual orientation.
  2. There were significant debates and actions around gender identity in public spaces and schools, with many parents expressing concerns about the influence of gender ideology on children's education.
  3. Organizations and individuals pushed back against perceived gender ideology in sports, education, and healthcare, leading to a complex conversation about the rights of transgender individuals and the protection of women and children.

If We Lose the Amazon, Plant Medicine Goes With it 🌳💀

Tripsitter • 99 implied HN points • 06 Oct 23
🌞 Climate & Environment Activism
  1. The Amazon rainforest is in danger due to activities like oil extraction, logging, and mining, threatening unique plant medicines and indigenous cultures.
  2. Multiple organizations are working tirelessly to protect the Amazon, indigenous territories, and fight against illegal activities disrupting the rainforest.
  3. Conservation efforts are complex, require long-term stability and consistency, and face challenges such as profit-driven destruction, political instability, and risks to activists.
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The Community of Air

Field Guide to the Anthropocene • 98 implied HN points • 10 Mar 23
🌞 Climate & Environment Activism
  1. The documentary 'All That Breathes' highlights the powerful connection between empathy and ethics in caring for wounded birds.
  2. Noticing the suffering of the natural world is a crucial step in understanding our place in the Anthropocene era.
  3. The High Seas Treaty signals a transformative shift by regulating human activity to protect ecosystems in the deep oceans.

Senator Abourezk was Vietnam Syndrome, and Vietnam Syndrome was good

Matthew's Notebook • 98 implied HN points • 02 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism
  1. Senator James Abourezk embodied the spirit of self-criticism and reform after the Vietnam War.
  2. The interconnectedness of the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal played a significant role in shaping American society during that era.
  3. Abourezk's advocacy for Arab-American rights and his diplomatic efforts internationally left a lasting impact on American politics.

$269 This Week Playing Against Empire

The False Consensus Effect • 59 implied HN points • 07 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Activism
  1. The author aims to live frugally under $300/week to resist governmental control and societal pressures.
  2. Encourages others, especially the youth, to follow a similar path of minimalistic living and contributions to charity.
  3. The author criticizes the current economic structure and lifestyle standards in the U.S., advocating for a simpler, more community-oriented way of life.

Life with Zohran

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 60 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism
  1. Running a political campaign takes a lot of time and effort. It can feel more like a full-time job than just a hobby.
  2. Collaboration and teamwork with dedicated individuals are key for running a successful campaign. Each person brings their strengths to the table.
  3. Learning from losses is important. Sometimes, not winning can lead to better opportunities and growth in other areas.

The Italian Problem, Part II: No Halfway Measures

Bird History • 59 implied HN points • 04 Jan 24
💾 History Activism
  1. Conservationists in the early 1900s clashed with Italian immigrants over the tradition of eating songbirds, leading to heated conflicts and even fatal incidents.
  2. Enforcement of laws protecting songbirds led to heavy fines and long prison sentences for Italian immigrants caught hunting, sparking significant tensions and occasional violence.
  3. Efforts to educate Italian communities about bird protection laws included posting bilingual signs and organizing lectures, with varying degrees of success in changing behaviors.

Top Links 385 China's vanishing statistics, Mexico's investment boom, why German carmakers don't want tariffs on Chinese EV & the Rangoon School

Chartbook • 329 implied HN points • 12 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Activism
  1. The post highlights various topics like China's vanishing statistics, Mexico's investment boom, why German carmakers dislike tariffs on Chinese EVs, and the Rangoon School.
  2. Adam Tooze's Chartbook Newsletter includes interesting links, readings, and images.
  3. The featured portrait is of General Aung San, a significant Burmese politician and independence leader who was tragically assassinated before he could see Myanmar gain independence from British rule.

America's Academic Gulag (w/ MIT Student Activists) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 124 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism
  1. Students at MIT are speaking out against the university's involvement in military research that supports violence. They believe their work should be aligned with ethics and not contribute to harm.
  2. The university administration has been accused of trying to silence dissenting voices by disciplining students who criticize military collaborations. This raises concerns about freedom of speech and the treatment of student activists.
  3. There is a growing call for universities to reconsider their partnerships with the military and to support human rights. Students want their research to promote peace rather than contribute to violence.

The Counterrevolution

KERFUFFLE • 155 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism
  1. The American left has weakened significantly over the years, losing its voice and influence in politics. This has left many people without a true leftist movement to turn to.
  2. The rise of the so-called 'woke left' focused more on identity issues rather than traditional class politics, which diluted the message of the left and was supported by the Democratic Party.
  3. The terms 'left' and 'right' in politics no longer make sense and can confuse discussions about current issues. There's a call for new ways to think about politics beyond these outdated labels.

Links to Consider, 3/7

In My Tribe • 318 implied HN points • 07 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism
  1. Girard's mimetic theory explains how desires are often copied from others, leading to a cycle of crisis and scapegoating in communities.
  2. Noah Smith points out the shift in progressive causes towards Palestine, indicating a potential change in the unrest of the 2010s.
  3. Charles Kesler highlights the difference between National Conservatism and American Conservatism in terms of prioritizing individual vs. group rights.

Reminder: Zoom Q&A Tonight

Nonzero Newsletter • 112 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism
  1. There's a Zoom Q&A scheduled for tonight where topics will include the early weeks of Trump 2.0. It's a chance to discuss other NonZero-related subjects as well.
  2. The call starts at 8 pm Eastern Time and will last about 90 minutes. Make sure to join if you're interested in these topics!
  3. This post is meant for paid subscribers, so if you're not subscribed, you might need to sign up to participate in the discussion.

Art of the Next Best

Diane Francis • 499 implied HN points • 17 Jan 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism
  1. The recent actions by activists like Stacey Abrams show a tough moment for democracy in America. Their rejection of President Biden's speech highlights growing divides.
  2. Biden was trying to support voting rights with the Freedom to Vote Act but faced backlash. This makes it harder to reach agreements with those who oppose the bill.
  3. Criticism from both sides can block potential compromises. It's important for leaders to find common ground to move forward.

Don't Worry, He's "Mild."

OK Doomer • 153 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism
  1. Public health is being neglected while focusing on economic growth, which can worsen the state of democracy.
  2. The new leadership appointments in health are seen as a move to undermine public health efforts, rather than improve them.
  3. There's misinformation about health topics like fluoride, leading to confusion and misunderstanding among the public.

Faith, Hope, Love ... and Social Justice?

Meaning || Matter • 19 implied HN points • 07 May 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Activism
  1. Love is crucial for social justice and can drive real change. Bell hooks believed that love is often seen as weak, but it can actually be a powerful and transformative force.
  2. Honest communication is essential in love and cannot exist in systems of domination. Patriarchy creates barriers, causing people to hide their true selves, which harms relationships.
  3. Spirituality can come from various traditions and doesn't have to be tied to organized religion. It's about valuing love and interconnectedness in our lives and communities.

bell hooks’ Labors of Love: Visionary Feminism

Humanities in Revolt • 159 implied HN points • 16 Dec 22
🎭️ Culture Activism
  1. bell hooks' work emphasized the importance of caring about what you write, showing personal interest, and using respectful objectivity.
  2. She advocated for visionary feminism that targets sexism, exploitation, and oppression, aiming for transformation rather than mere reform.
  3. hooks urged for a deeper focus on economic class alongside race and gender issues, highlighting the interlocking systems of domination and the need to challenge classism.

Divorcing for Liberty Sanity

The False Consensus Effect • 59 implied HN points • 12 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism
  1. The author suggests embracing voluntary poverty as a way to protest against governments and their harmful actions.
  2. Poverty can be a creative way to navigate life, leading to self-sufficiency and alternate sources of income.
  3. Living below the poverty line is proposed as a form of resistance against contributing to unethical government actions and military spending.

Ukraine is brutally repressing the left, criminalizing socialist parties, imprisoning activists

Geopolitical Economy Report • 279 implied HN points • 25 Mar 22
🌍 World Politics Activism
  1. Ukraine's Western-backed government is cracking down on the left, criminalizing socialist parties, and imprisoning activists, using Russia's invasion as a justification.
  2. Neo-Nazis have infiltrated Ukrainian security agencies since a 2014 US-backed coup, leading to violent repression of left-wing individuals and groups.
  3. The Ukraine government has implemented extreme laws banning communist symbols, songs, and affiliations, and has received support from the US and EU despite violating civil liberties.

The Hong Konger

Pieter’s Newsletter • 179 implied HN points • 17 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics Activism
  1. The world seems to have forgotten about Jimmy Lai, a prominent figure in the Hong Kong democracy movement.
  2. Jimmy Lai, a wealthy Hong Kong business icon, faced persecution for his pro-democracy stance and involvement in protests.
  3. Despite facing imprisonment, Jimmy Lai remains steadfast in his commitment to fighting for the people of Hong Kong and their freedom.

Re: "We Quit" — Extinction Rebellion

Activist Futurism • 119 implied HN points • 09 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics Activism
  1. Movements must constantly evolve their tactics to remain relevant over time.
  2. Activists face the challenge of innovating protest tactics rather than repeating ineffective ones.
  3. Protest tactics consist of elements like action, timing, story, and chance, all of which need innovation for creating successful protests.

Episode 110: Transactional Wokeness

Disaffected Newsletter • 179 implied HN points • 06 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism
  1. A woman who attacked a gay man at a Pride event only received community service, showing a lenient response to hate crimes.
  2. A significant donation from a controversial crypto company helped a candidate's election efforts, raising questions about funding sources in politics.
  3. The episode includes humorous commentary on social media posts that are seen as shallow or annoying, reflecting on the current cultural climate.

Burlington Gay Bash

Disaffected Newsletter • 279 implied HN points • 26 Sep 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism
  1. A founder of the gay pride movement was attacked by members of the LGBTQ community in Burlington. This incident highlights tensions within the community itself.
  2. The discussion will focus on recognizing manipulative behaviors and understanding how to effectively respond to them. It's important to be aware of these tactics.
  3. In confrontations, sometimes a gentle approach isn’t the best choice. Knowing when to adjust your tone is key to effective communication.

Preachy Vegans [2]

Fake Noûs • 306 implied HN points • 03 Feb 24
🍲 Food & Drink Activism
  1. Vegans believe eating meat is morally wrong, not just a personal preference.
  2. Raising serious moral concerns should not be dismissed as 'preachy'.
  3. Taking morality seriously means acknowledging and engaging with ethical issues.

John Farnham Has Stolen My Childhood

Anxiety Addiction & Ascension • 79 implied HN points • 05 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Activism
  1. The author reflects on how Greta Thunberg's message about her stolen childhood is misguided, believing it's actually the common people who have had their childhood taken by societal norms.
  2. The narrative describes the nostalgic appeal of 80s music and how 'You're the Voice' symbolizes a shared childhood for many, creating a sense of unity during a turbulent time of the Cold War.
  3. The author expresses disappointment in John Farnham allowing his song to be used in a political campaign, feeling that it has tainted the song's legacy and stolen a piece of their childhood.

Activist Artificial Intelligence

Activist Futurism • 179 implied HN points • 03 Sep 22
🕹 Technology Activism
  1. Social unrest may take a new form with the emergence of Activist Artificial Intelligences, surpassing traditional protest methods like marches and riots.
  2. Advancements like GPT-J and Stable Diffusion show how AI can be used to create political images and organize movements, presenting new challenges and opportunities.
  3. The possibility of Activist AIs aligned with specific ideologies or even working for their own agendas raises concerns about their potential impact on society and political movements.

Campaign to Stop Killer Robots fired its government relations manager to protect relationship with Austria, says former employee

All-Source Intelligence Fusion • 366 implied HN points • 08 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics Activism
  1. The Campaign to Stop Killer Robots fired a government relations manager over comments about Israel's actions in Gaza.
  2. The firing occurred just before a significant vote by the United Nations General Assembly on autonomous weapons.
  3. There were conflicts of interest and controversy surrounding the termination, including involvement of Austria and Palestine.

A requiem for Bell Bowl Prairie

This Week in Birding • 78 implied HN points • 10 Mar 23
🌞 Climate & Environment Activism
  1. A group gathered at Bell Bowl Prairie to mourn its destruction by a bulldozer.
  2. Efforts to stop the destruction were unsuccessful due to legal system failures and lack of political action.
  3. Advocates call for updating endangered species laws and increasing funding for conservation to prevent similar devastation in the future.

Sunday West 47

Wrong Side of History • 289 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Activism
  1. Being cringe might be beneficial for society, as coolness can be fleeting and exclusionary.
  2. Soft power is crucial to maintaining a country's influence, but it often follows financial power.
  3. The roles of old and young in radical political movements seem to be reversing, with elderly individuals taking on more active roles.

On Tyranny

Thinking about... • 311 implied HN points • 06 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism
  1. Authoritarian power is often given willingly by individuals, don't comply in advance.
  2. Defend institutions that uphold decency and democracy by actively supporting them.
  3. Be vigilant against the rise of one-party states and fight to uphold democratic principles and multiple-party systems.

TERF Club!

A B’Old Woman • 199 implied HN points • 20 Nov 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism
  1. TERF Club cards are being spotted in public places, creating buzz and discussion online. It's interesting how a simple card can spark such strong reactions.
  2. The term 'TERF Club' originated from a casual tweet and has been turned into a movement by a dedicated team. It shows how a small idea can grow into something bigger.
  3. The cards not only promote the TERF message but also guide people to more information on related events. It's a clever way to engage people who find the cards.

Suppression of Free Speech at MIT: "On Pacifism" and the Ban on Written Revolution

Heterodox STEM • 99 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Activism
  1. MIT recently banned a student magazine for an article discussing the limitations of nonviolent protest, sparking a debate about free speech on campus.
  2. The situation highlights how expressing controversial or radical ideas can lead to disciplinary actions at universities.
  3. The case shows the challenges students face when trying to discuss extreme views and the balance between safety and free expression in academic settings.