Politics vs. Social Status

Of how many "advocacy groups" are you currently aware?  I thought so.  Quite a few, if you put yourself to think about it.  National groups such as the NAACP, state groups like Environment Florida, and local groups, such as your local Chamber of Commerce.  (Just because I mention specific groups does not mean that I am against them in any way, shape, or form.  They are merely examples of more commonly known advocacy groups.)

Now, let's explore a little deeper.  Have you ever tried to become involved with one of such advocacy groups, because you really liked the way their mission statement sounds?  A lot of active verbs, a lot of great causes, and a lot of magnificent imagery that flashes through your mind as you imagine changing the world with your fellow group members?  You check out the website of the group, find out where to send your application or interest form, and fill it out, brimming with energy and excitement for the revolution you feel is further underway with every stroke of the keyboard!  You e-mail the form, because you *know* they'll get your data on their smartphones and immediately call you and...nothing happens.  You wait patiently.  You see several advocacy campaigns and events advertised, you see the cars lined down the block near the director's country club estate for the "by invitation only" VIP cocktail party for which you weren't on the guest list.  Your illusions and dreams of one day being able to say "I was on the committee that was responsible for changing the world," dissipate.  You quickly realize that this group obviously doesn't want your help, even though they advertise a "new-member drive" all over Facebook, Twitter, and on signs in your neighbor's yard.  

So what's the deal?  You ask.  It seems as if these groups (especially the local ones) are more of a social revue than anything else.  They want to save the world, but only by the side of people just like them.  They want to say they're starting a political revolution, but all they seem to do is "celebrate."  When do they work? When do they fight legislation?  Phone banking - with a never-ending flow of wine and a constant smoke break?  How does a cocktail party (labeled "VIP" to make it sound posh) cause legislative reform?  

Sure.  Networking is a huge key to success.  But when does the networking convert to fruition of your purpose statement?  You just got an award, but for WHAT?  Where are the politics?  When do you involve your community - both those for you and against you?  How can I help?  Really help?   

Unfortunately, many of today's "advocacy groups" are cliques.  Just like in high school.  The "cool kids."  The "rich kids."  The socialites of our day.  And it's next to impossible (it seems) to be "accepted."  

What can we do about it?  Stand up and TAKE ACTION.  Be the change!  A movement really can start with one person.  Start talking.  You'll be amazed to find that you are not alone.  That others feel "left out" just like you.  What do you want to see accomplished?  What do you want to advocate for?  What was it about that mission statement that you liked?  Who in your local government (start small - more on this later) sits on the legislative committee involved with that?  How can you get on the agenda at a city council meeting?  Change has to start somewhere.  And if you aren't willing to get involved, then why should anybody else be?  It's time to actually produce change, not just talk about it over coffee!