What tactics did activists use in the late 1960s and 1970s?
EXTRA HELP
It was common for activists to stage demonstrations or organized actions. What were these demonstrations like? What were the messages? Were they violent or nonviolent?
SAVE DRAFT
Activists in the late 1960s and 1970s used a variety of tactics to bring attention to their causes and effect change. Some of these tactics included:
1. Demonstrations: Activists often organized marches, sit-ins, and rallies to demand change. These demonstrations were used to bring attention to a specific issue or to show solidarity with a particular group.
2. Civil Disobedience: Many activists believed in the power of civil disobedience to effect change. This involved breaking the law or disobeying orders in a nonviolent way to protest a particular policy or law.
3. Boycotts: Activists often called for boycotts of companies that supported policies or practices they disagreed with. This was a way to use economic pressure to force change.
4. Street Theater: Some activists used street theater as a way to draw attention to their cause. This involved creative and often humorous performances in public spaces to bring attention to an issue.
5. Sit-ins: Activists would intentionally occupy a space, often a government or corporate office, to protest and demand change.
The messages of these demonstrations varied depending on the specific cause, but many focused on issues such as civil rights, anti-war, women's rights, and environmentalism. While some demonstrations were nonviolent, others did turn violent, especially when met with heavy-handed police responses or counter-protests.