I see the blogging as major asset in my arsenal as a young activist.
As an accessible, equalizing platform, the blogosphere gives voice to those underrepresented in the mainstream media. With easy options for sharing and commenting, a blog can create online community, highlight critical perspectives, and serve as an opportunity for activists and feminists to engage in constructive dialogue. In the modern landscape of activism, blogging can be understood as necessary skill for any opinionated change-maker. But how is it learned?
Last month, I had the pleasure of leading an innovative BCRW workshop for Barnard students called SPEAK UP! Establishing Online Voice through Blogging with fellow Barnard student and renown teen blogger, Julie Zeilinger. Although incredibly beneficial on a personal, professional, and community level, blogging is not a widely taught skill set. Often, individual learning happens through a trial and error process with little support or formula. For many, the lack of facilitation, experience, or technical expertise becomes a hindrance for participation.
Inspired by the recent launch of the BCRW Blog, Julie and I endeavored to set up a forum to teach and encourage blogging among students as a means of self expression and activism. The event aimed to open a discussion on campus about opportunities and strategies for effective blogging; it was designed both to train BCRW Research Assistants in using our Center’s blog, and also to give members of the Barnard student body an opportunity to learn the basic skills and network with other users on campus.