✅ Civic Engagement Guide: Protect Your Digital Well-Being
We will show up, speak out, and organize to build the power to replace corrupt politicians.
America, our communities are under direct attack. Billionaires like Elon Musk are gaining control over critical federal systems. Convicted 34-time felon President Donald Trump is surrounding himself with extremists determined to dismantle everything America stands for—turning our government into a theocratic autocracy designed to strip away our rights and freedoms. And while this happens, MAGA Republicans in Congress are not just standing by—they're helping. Republicans don't want to represent us; they want to rule over us.
We are not powerless. In fact, we hold the power they fear most—the power of collective action. We are rising up and pushing back.
No one can impose their racism, xenophobia, Islamophobia, antisemitism, homophobia, misogyny, sexism, ageism, ableism, sizeism, transphobia, misogynoir, elitism, and bigotry on us.
America works best when it works for all of us—no matter who we are or where we come from. But MAGA Republicans & their billionaire backers want to turn back the clock to a time when wealthy white men held all the power and hoarded all the opportunities. They spread lies to cover up the progress we've made, hoping to divide us and tighten their grip on power. We're not falling for it. We demand a government that reflects all of us, represents every one of us, and serves no one's interests but the people's. No exceptions.
We will not be silenced. We will not be sidelined.
This is our moment to stand up, push back, and fight for the country we believe in.
We will show up, speak out, and organize to build the power to replace them.
Protect Your Digital Well-Being
In the era of digital activism, protecting your digital well-being is just as crucial as advocating for the causes you believe in. With increasing online threats, misinformation, and digital fatigue, staying safe and maintaining a healthy digital presence can empower your civic engagements. Here's a guide to help you protect your digital well-being while staying active in civic spaces.
1. Strengthen Your Digital Security
Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Utilize complex passwords for different accounts. Consider using a password manager like 1Password to keep track of them securely.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Adding an extra layer of security helps protect your accounts even if your password is compromised.
Regular Updates: Keep your software, apps, and devices updated to guard against the latest security vulnerabilities.
Secure Networks: Use trusted Wi-Fi networks. Consider a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your data when using public Wi-Fi. Nord or TunnelBear are a few that come to mind.
2. Manage Your Digital Footprint
Review Privacy Settings: Regularly check and adjust privacy settings on social media platforms to control who can see your information.
Be Mindful of Sharing: Avoid oversharing personal details that could be exploited, like your location, routines, or sensitive personal information.
Google Yourself: Periodically search your name to see publicly available information and manage it accordingly.
Get a free Google email for your activism (sending letters, signing petitions, etc)
Get a free Google phone number for your activism
Go to voice.google.com.
Sign in to your Google Account.
Review the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. click Continue.
You can search for available numbers by city or area code. ...
Next to the number you want, click Select.
Follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Combat Misinformation
Verify Sources: Always fact-check information before sharing. Use reputable fact-checking sites like Snopes, FactCheck.org, or your preferred credible news sources.
Pause Before You Share: If content evokes strong emotions like anger or fear, take a moment to verify its authenticity before spreading it.
Educate Yourself: Stay informed about common misinformation tactics and digital manipulation techniques.
4. Foster Healthy Digital Habits
Set Boundaries: Allocate specific times for checking emails and social media to avoid constant digital distractions.
Digital Detox: Take regular breaks from screens to ease fatigue and support your mental health. Consider checking the news just once or twice a day, and limit your sources to a few trusted ones. You can rotate them if needed, but don’t overwhelm yourself. Remember, this is a marathon, not a sprint. Pace yourself.
Curate Your Feed: Follow accounts that inspire and inform you positively, and unfollow or mute sources of negativity or misinformation.
5. Engage Thoughtfully and Respectfully
Practice Digital Civility: Engage in constructive, respectful discussions, even when opinions differ.
Report Abuse: Utilize platform tools to report harassment, threats, or harmful content.
Support Positive Movements: Amplify credible voices, support fact-based information, and contribute positively to digital spaces.
6. Protect Against Digital Harassment
Know Your Rights: Understand laws related to online harassment and digital rights in your region.
Document Incidents: Keep records of any harassment, including screenshots and timestamps.
Seek Support: Reach out to trusted communities or legal advisors if you feel threatened online.
Final Thoughts
Protecting your digital well-being is essential for sustainable civic engagement. By securing your digital life, managing your online presence thoughtfully, and fostering a healthy relationship with technology, you can advocate effectively and safely for the causes that matter to you. Stay informed, stay secure, and continue to be a force for positive change in digital and real-world spaces.
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Additional Resources
ACLU
Harvard Business School
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Laurie Woodward Garcia (paid with hugs and kisses, not bought by special interests)
Leader, People Power United
Representing America's largest grassroots organization with over 200,000+ members, driven entirely by the energy and commitment of everyday people. We are proudly 100% independent, powered by people—not special interests.
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