ACTIVISM: Sharpening the Blade of Social Change

by Adam Vincent Perez

Who would have thought that a simple "NO" to activism could instantly get the attention of every IITian at the height of KASAMA Special Elections 2023? Eyebrows were raised as the concept of "Bad Activism" was brought to the table by one of the presidentiables. This negative connotation to the said movement should never be dismissed lightly as it could lead to the indifference of the public to bite back whenever oppressed.

Unsheathing.

Activism, in its simplest form, are mere fractals of social efforts that strive to achieve reforms and aim to bring positive change towards the society. This unchartered power of the society could take down even the most brutal dictators the country has ever seen. Activists rally in the streets and scream their battle cry to address issues that need to be resolved.

Dull blade

However, this sharp weapon of the public was dulled by the stigma that surrounds it. Propagandas were being utilized to brainwash the general public that activism is synonymous with terrorism and individuals that who engage in such activity are deemed as leftist and are up to no good. Banning activism also means caging the freedom of expression of the public which disrupts the pursuit of change.

Viewing through a retrospective lens, we will discover that activism has done more good than harm to the public. The earliest records date back to May 1, 1903, which was spearheaded by the Union Obrera Democratica de Filipinas. This resulted in the implementation of the 8-hour working hours. After World War II, the peasants and workers worked hand-in-hand to bravely stand up for their rights and challenge authorities in connection to the maltreatment of the country. This series of activism served as a catalyst for the early Filipinos to seek social change during the oppressive times.

Reforge and sharpen.

In the present, we are enjoying the free tertiary education since we are in a state university like MSU-IIT. But did it ever cross your mind that it was made possible by this heavily stigmatized activism? The series of nonviolent protests influenced the legislators to push through these radical changes. To hear a college student, who also happens to aspire for a position in the student body, saying that Activism disrupts peace and order is pure comedy. 

Activism sets ablaze the flickering spark of nationalism in our hearts. May we never lose track of our vision of a progressive society that is never afraid to speak against injustices. We urge students to use their voices: utilize social media and spread awareness regarding the current social dilemma experienced by many. These micro steps will have macro effects in diminishing the negative connotation and reinforcing the spirit of activism. It is time that we sharpen once more the blade of social change and debunk all the stigma that dulls it.