Getting involved with your local Greenpeace network may seem daunting but it’s actually very easy. Here are five simple things to do
1. Join a local group
We meet on the first Wednesday of every month at the Rose and Crown on Hoe Street. It’s a relaxed, friendly and welcoming gathering of like-minded people. Despite the serious issues on the table, we do laugh a lot. Once the meeting is over, we get to sit back and enjoy Walthamstow’s finest open mic live music night.
Greenpeace Waltham Forest members have been known to step up on stage from time to time (but don’t let that put you off too much).
2. Digital activism
You can make a substantive contribution to Greenpeace without leaving your house. Online activism is a hugely important part of what we do and we can never have enough people to help. You can join the Volkswagen rebellion, tell Mattel to stop thrashing rainforests or sign a petition to protect the Arctic.
Alternatively, you could help your local network by blogging for us or looking after our Facebook page.
3. Street campaigning
There is no better way to spread the word about Greenpeace campaigns than just getting out and talking to people. At least once a month you will find hardy souls from Greenpeace Waltham Forest out on the street. Believe it or not, the most common refrain we hear from people is ‘I didn’t know anything about that – of course, I’ll sign up to help.’ Talking to people is the best way to campaign.
And at Greenpeace Waltham Forest we are firm advocates of going to the pub for a chat once the day is done, which is scientifically proven to be the best way to end a day’s campaigning.
4. Political lobbying
Greenpeace has its own UK-wide network of trained political lobbyists who meet their MPs to discuss important issues. They are all volunteers just like you. No special political knowledge or insight is required, just a desire to help. We’ll do the rest.
We’ve already met Stella Creasy, MP for Walthamstow, on more than one occasion. Maybe you could do it with us next time. Alternatively, we need lobbyists in the Leyton & Wanstead and Chingford constituencies.
5. Take action
Waltham Forest Greenpeace, like most networks, has activists who participate in activities of a more direct nature. Come along to a meeting sometime and you can find out more.
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