By Jen Barnet, President of JONAH
Tyranny thrives on fear, exhaustion, and isolation. It tells us that we are powerless, that our efforts are meaningless, and that the world’s brokenness is inevitable. But this is a lie. Even small acts of resistance push back against that narrative, reminding us – and those around us – that hope is still alive.
Resistance doesn’t always look dramatic. In fact, some of the most powerful acts of defiance are quiet, everyday choices that refuse to let cruelty define us.
Here are some tangible ways to engage in small but meaningful acts of resistance:
1. Encourage Someone
Tyranny seeks to isolate people, to make them feel alone and forgotten. Encouragement is a radical way to push back against that isolation.
- Speak words of strength. A simple “I believe in you” or “I see the good you’re doing” can sustain someone on the verge of giving up.
- Acknowledge the struggle. People often hesitate to speak up when they feel unheard. Acknowledge the burden someone is carrying: “I know this is hard, but I’m with you.”
- Offer unexpected kindness. Write a note of encouragement. Send a text expressing gratitude. Remind someone of their worth. In a world bent on dehumanizing, kindness is resistance.
Example: If a friend is advocating for justice and feeling discouraged, send a note that says, “Your voice matters. Don’t stop speaking truth.”
2. Provide Aid in Any Way You Can
Tyranny seeks to convince us that unless we can fix everything, we shouldn’t bother trying. But compassion in the form of small, tangible acts makes a difference.
- Share food. If someone is hungry, feed them. Whether it’s dropping off a meal, supporting a local food pantry, or simply inviting someone to your table, feeding others is a profound act of hope.
- Offer resources. Share what you have—whether that’s time, skills, connections, or even a listening ear. Often, practical help becomes the foundation of lasting change.
- Give your presence. Sometimes the greatest gift is simply showing up. Sit with someone in their grief. Walk beside someone through their hardship. Presence is powerful.
Example: If a neighbor is struggling financially, consider buying a gift card for groceries or gas with a simple note: “You are not alone. I see you.”
3. Tell the Truth
Tyranny depends on lies – false narratives that paint injustice as inevitable, cruelty as acceptable, and corruption as unstoppable. Telling the truth – whether loudly or quietly – is one of the most courageous acts of resistance you can offer.
- Speak truth in your circles. When misinformation or harmful rhetoric arises in conversations, calmly share facts and speak for those who aren’t present to defend themselves.
- Amplify silenced voices. Share the words of marginalized communities, activists, and truth-tellers who are often overlooked.
- Refuse to look away. Tyranny relies on people turning a blind eye. Stay informed, even when it’s uncomfortable.
Example: If someone diminishes the suffering of others, respond with gentle but firm truth: “That’s not the whole story. People are hurting, and their voices matter.”
4. Support Organizations and Movements Working for Justice
Hope flourishes in collective action. Tyranny thrives when people feel like they’re standing alone – but when we support movements for justice, we join a larger story of courage and change.
- Find a cause that aligns with your values. Whether it’s racial justice, climate action, refugee support, or local advocacy, identify groups doing meaningful work and commit to supporting them.
- Volunteer your time. Even a few hours of involvement can make a lasting impact.
- Donate when possible. If financial giving isn’t an option, consider offering practical resources, skills, or connections.
Example: If you can’t march in a protest, you might prepare food for those who do. If you can’t donate money, you might write letters or make phone calls for an advocacy campaign.
5. Practice Generosity in Everyday Life
Generosity is a quiet but powerful way to resist tyranny’s grip. It builds connection, reminds people they are valued, and challenges the mindset of scarcity that often accompanies oppression.
- Share what you can. Generosity doesn’t have to be grand. Offering a cup of coffee, a book, or even a smile can affirm another person’s dignity.
- Be generous with your time. A phone call, a conversation over coffee, or helping someone with errands can break through the loneliness that often accompanies hardship.
- Be generous with your grace. People are often carrying unseen burdens. When possible, extend patience and understanding.
Example: If someone speaks or acts out of fear, instead of reacting with anger, respond with empathy: “I know you’re worried. Can we talk about that?”
Why Small Acts of Resistance Matter
When you engage in these small but courageous actions, you are refusing to let despair control the narrative. Each act declares:
- “Love is stronger than fear.”
- “Truth is stronger than lies.”
- “Light will always break through the darkness.”
Tyranny depends on convincing us that hope is foolish. But every small act of resistance says otherwise.
Even if you can’t see the results, your actions plant seeds that will grow in their time. Resistance is not about instant change – it’s about refusing to let injustice go unchallenged.
Reflection Questions for Moving Forward
- What is one small act of resistance you can commit to this week?
- Who in your life needs encouragement right now?
- What resources; time, skills, or presence, can you offer to someone in need?
May you be bold in your defiance, persistent in your compassion, and steadfast in your belief that hope is possible – even now.