Seasoned by their valuable life experience, outlook and knowledge, a new breed of over 50s Older, Active Protestors is emerging, keeping our social tapestry alive and standing up for important issues.
We've recently done some research that shows that over a third (35%) of over 50s, equating to almost 8 million people1, consider themselves more politically active now than when they were passionate youngsters burning bras in the 1960s and 1970s, when banning the bomb was the issue of the day. Highly engaged in the important issues of our time, they’re now most concerned with the environmental agenda, as well as local community issues and human rights.
An energetic and determined group, two in five over 50s (42%) think that they’re even more driven about campaigning than younger generations today. They look up to the fabulous Joanna Lumley and her work for the Ghurkas as their top celebrity campaigning role model, and other inspirational figures like Dame Joan Bakewell and Gloria Hunniford. And they’re not just talking the talk, 7.8m over 50s (36%) have actively campaigned since they turned 50 years old, and 10.4m (48%) have participated in protesting.
Want to get involved?
The ways in which the Older, Active Protestors are showing their fervour are still fairly traditional – mainly things like drawing up a paper petitions and writing to MPs. These are great ways to make your voice heard, but there are a few other things you can do too to further whatever cause you’re passionate about. You’ll find our five top tips below...
- Protest peacefully and effectively. The right to peaceful protest is a vital part of democratic society. Furthermore, it has a long and respected tradition in the UK.
- Don’t be afraid of the internet – social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter can be very powerful and reach a wide audience. Enlist someone who knows how to use them to get them to show you how create a simple Facebook page or Twitter feed if you don’t know how, or do some research yourself online. Alternatively, take a look at the Facebook and Twitter support pages which will take you through the process step by step.
- An online petition is much easier than a paper one. You can even send it direct to 10 Downing Street if you use this site: http://petitions.number10.gov.uk/.
In addition, you can also start petitions on the following websites:
- Think about the reason for the petition or protest thoroughly, so you can explain yourself clearly and answer any potential questions. Collect hard 'evidence' to strengthen your case.
- If you are planning a physical protest, pick a date, time and location where you will get the most attention. There are plenty more tips for physical protests on the Direct Gov website.
Source
1. All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from Opinium Research. Total sample size was 1,208 adults aged 50 years and over.. Fieldwork was undertaken between 28 May to 4 June 2010. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted to nationally representative criteria.