The Need for a Culture of Movement Communication
Throughout history, our people have used many tools and techniques of communicating the word of the movement, e.g. flyers, brochures, maps. Most recently these tools have taken a shift to information technologies such as social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, etc.), collaboration platforms (google drive), and more. With a culture of movement communication, we mean to develop a cohesive practice of communication that is rooted in the acknowledgement that our tools and technologies are not mere instruments— they are political objects.
Popular technologies of today are built upon capitalistic values of efficiency and productivity, which are often associated with whiteness, masculinity, young age, and socioeconomic status. Adopting these tools leads to a similar belief within the movement landscape; technological power and knowledge are held by just a few members whose identities are associated with the values of technological efficiency.
The choice to use digital communication tools also isolates members living in areas with unreliable internet connection and/or members who are not comfortable using technology. The latter can can sometimes lead to an “inter-generational gap” in the movement. One example of how the gap manifests is that it directly conflicts with the values of black and indigenous cultures many SMA members come from which deeply values the wisdom of elders. Similarly, in the current reality of movement organizing the elders (with some exceptions) often feel disconnected from the movement due to their relationship with technology.