The call to contribute and become active in supporting and advocating for social justice has never been as high as it has been in the last few years. So, many people that were never activists are on the streets and virtually creating change. Veteran activists continue on the front lines. Both are juggling activism, personal lives while attempting to avoid burnout.
We need to find a way to sustain the work without the collateral damage to individuals’ mental health. We’ve heard the mantras and seen the quotes, self-care isn’t selfish, or put your own mask first. But the reality is that people, particularly women and especially in the do the gooders communities, are not prioritizing self-care.
Promoting self-care, mindful activism, and self-compassion in the activist community should not be up to each individual alone. Organizations should develop self-care resources and then look long-term to create a culture where self-care and mindful activism are the norms.
