Survivors Guide To Feminist Activism

Many survivors find that engaging in feminist activism, community action, or social change work can feel empowering, connecting, and meaningful. For some, it can be a way to channel experiences into advocacy, build community, or help create change for others.

At the same time, activism can sometimes feel emotionally demanding — especially when conversations relate to sexual violence, gender inequality, or injustice. This resource is here to help you explore ways to get involved safely, gently, and at your own pace.

There is no “right” way to be an activist. Your well-being always comes first.

Starting Where You Are

You do not need to share your story publicly to be involved in feminist activism. Participation can look many different ways, including:

• Learning more about feminist issues
• Supporting campaigns online
• Attending events or discussions
• Volunteering your time or skills
• Fundraising for organisations you care about
• Creating art, writing, or creative responses
• Supporting others in your community

Activism can be quiet, behind-the-scenes, creative, or public — all forms are valid.

Looking After Yourself While Engaging

Topics connected to gender-based violence can sometimes bring up strong emotions, and here are circumstances where it may be likley that you encounter triggers during activism. Before getting involved, it can help to consider:

• What feels manageable for you right now?
• How much time or emotional energy you want to give
• Whether certain topics or spaces feel triggering
• What support you have in place if things feel overwhelming

You are allowed to step back, take breaks, or change your level of involvement at any time. Listening to yourself, not ignoring signs of distress and disregulation and taking a break if you need to can help to avoid activist’s burnout and re-traumatisation.

Boundaries are part of sustainable activism.

Feminist & Community Spaces in Brighton & Sussex

Brighton & Sussex has a strong history of grassroots activism and community organising. You might explore:

• Local women’s and gender equality groups
• Community campaigns focused on safety and inclusion
• Creative collectives and arts-based activism
• Mutual aid and community support networks
• Awareness events, talks, and workshops
• International Women’s Day, Reclaim The Night and 16 Days of Action events

Some Suggested Organisations in Brighton and Sussex. 

• Students attending uni may have access to their uni’s Feminist Society (Femsoc), like the ones at Sussex Uni or other activist groups like Sussex’s Her Night Her Right group.
• Reclaim The Night Brighton is a march through the city during 16 days of activism in November. The event is organised in collaboration with Survivors’ Network and often calls out for volunteer stewards.
• Brighton Dyke Collective often hosts events and activities for lesbians in the city.
• Trans Pride Brighton and Trans Pride Hastings are great ways to get involved and show up asa member of the community or an ally.
• Free The Nipple march in Brighton is a parade that decenters patriarchal dictatorship over bodies and the male gaze.
• Sisters Uncut is a national activist organisation with events often taking place in London.
• Barco Brighton is a Brighton-based Black anti-racism community organisation that often puts on events and meet-ups.
• Women’s Voice Hastings is an inclusive feminist group that hosts events and engages in local activism.
• Intersectional Uprising organises a feminist march that happens in Brighton annually, often calling out for volunteers.

If attending something new feels daunting, consider going with a friend or starting with online events.

Ways to Get Involved Gently

If you’d like to begin slowly, you could:

• Follow local feminist organisations on social media
• Share educational posts or resources
• Attend a one-off event rather than committing long-term
• Volunteer in roles not directly focused on survivor stories
• Support campaigns through practical skills (design, admin, fundraising, organising)

Activism doesn’t have to mean constant exposure to difficult conversations.

Remember…

Change happens in many ways, through loud voices and quiet actions alike. Your well-being matters more than any campaign, event, or movement.

You get to choose if, when, and how you take part.

Photo by @catherine_gregsonbourke