Decentralised Mass Action

What is it?

Do you remember during the pandemic all the people singing or applauding the medical staff from their balconies? 

They did not gather in the same place. But they all were doing the same thing in an act of solidarity. 

This is a decentralised mass action.

It’s when people do a certain thing, at a certain time, for a certain reason, to send a powerful message. 

For example, people in Warsaw stop for one minute at 17.00 CET every August 1st to commemorate the beginning of the Warsaw Uprising.

How do you do it?

First of all, you need to understand for what reason you are organising and participating in a decentralised mass action. Then you need to find a way to explain the meaning of this action to people. 

You should pick something that is fairly easy to do and does not require a huge investment in time or equipment. 

Finally, the challenge is to get the word out. You can use social media, but also reach out to associations, local groups etc. If you protest is salient, use media engagement to encourage people to know what you are planning. 

Why and When should you use it?

Decentralised mass action is a good solution if gatherings are forbidden, such as due to coronavirus restrictions, or if you have been denied permission to stage a protest in a public space.

Works best in combination with:

Any PR or Communication Campaign, Hacktivism, Twitter Action, Media Engagement.