One of the most important steps you can take in advocating for yourself is making the commitment to stand firm once you have stated your concerns. In fact, I would venture to stay next to taking a stand, standing firm is probably the most important decision you will make.
Some of the reasons people become advocates for themselves or others is because they want their voices to be heard, they are fighting for their rights, they are fighting for access to service or information, or they are fighting to bring about change. These day's social justice advocacy seems to center around either people's rights, which have usually been violated, or change that needs to be made.
Too many times people let go of the thought of seeking justice because they are afraid of the unknown or they simply just don't know what to do. Granted, dealing with legal issues, in particular, is intimidating but once you have decided to fight back, you have already overcome some degree of fear.
When you have raised a concern about a problem, or suffered an injustice that you cannot overcome without some recourse be vigilant in your fight and refuse to be moved! I remember when I represented myself in my civil case how determined I was not to give up. I didn't care how long it took, how many times I heard no, or how hard I had to fight, I refused to let go. Part of that is because that is just who I am, but more important, I was engaged in a fight that warranted my determination. You must feel the same way about your fight.
Advocacy work is only enjoyable for those of us who enjoy a good challenge and those who are passionate about justice. Some people may choose to advocate out of necessity, but whatever the reason you must do until you are satisfied.
This week the world is mourning the death of "The Greatest" also known as Muhammad Ali. Mr. Ali was not only the greatest boxer but also one of the best examples of what it means to stand firm! He stood firm against the Vietnam War when he had so much to lose and he did lose. Yet he returned to win again inside and outside of the boxing ring. His strong stance against the war won him The Presidential Citizens Medal in 2005.
Social justice advocacy is on the rise due in large part to the climate of our culture. The primary goal of advocacy is to bring about a positive change. This is another good reason for anyone fighting for what is right to stay strong and keep their head in the game. Typically doing good work for a good reason will inevitably lead to good results.
Angela Greene is the author of Unnecessary Roughness-The Story of a Mother's Fight for Justice coming in 2016. She is also an advocacy expert and media professional. She is the founder of, Change Agents Advocacy Group, a social justice advocacy group that seeks to educate and empower people about social injustices. They specialize in helping clients with conflict resolutions.