I love being an advocate for the things that matter to me. But sometimes, I can’t participate in the ways I want to — especially when activism and protests only happen in person.
As a person with a disability, I can’t drive. That alone limits my ability to show up physically. Unfortunately, many events prioritize in-person participation, leaving virtual options as an afterthought—if they’re even offered at all. But they shouldn’t be. Just because something looks different doesn’t mean it matters less, especially if it’s just for the exact cause, but it is set up differently, that is all.
Recently, I helped run a virtual event for my job. It took place on the same day as in-person protests, and over 50 people joined us on Zoom. My coworker and I planned the event together, and as two leaders within the nonprofit, we work for which felt like such a win, not just for us, but for the cause.
Why?
Because it showed that virtual activism isn’t just a backup plan — it’s something people truly want and need. By offering a virtual option, we gave people a way to show up for whatever the movement is, even if they couldn’t attend in person. That matters.
Let’s not forget: Just a few years ago, everything was made accessible by default. During the pandemic, we all had to pivot, and it was proven that virtual events can work. Were there hiccups? Sure. But they worked. We adapted. So why are we forgetting that now?
These days, virtual participation is often left behind due to staffing shortages, limited resources, or the belief that online efforts aren’t as “impactful.” But I’d argue the opposite. Virtual activism makes space for more voices. It includes people who might otherwise be left out — whether because of disability, distance, financial barriers, or safety concerns.
I’m not saying in-person activism isn’t important. It absolutely is. But it’s not the only valid or effective way to raise awareness and push for change. The truth is: any form of activism is better than none.
And it’s 2025 — we should be expanding access, not limiting it.
When we fail to offer inclusive options, we unintentionally silence people who care deeply about the cause but simply can’t attend, weakening the movement.
There’s a saying in the disability community: “Nothing about us without us.” And that includes the way we show up for causes — whether it’s in person or behind a screen. One method isn’t better than the other. Both are powerful. Both are meaningful. And both deserve our respect.
Featured image via Pexels
Your experience powerfully highlights the crucial need for inclusive activism that extends beyond physical presence. As someone with a disability, the limitations of in-person-only events are clear, and the success of your virtual event demonstrates the genuine desire and necessity for accessible online participation. You rightly point out that virtual activism isn’t a secondary option but a vital way to engage a broader audience, including those with disabilities, geographical limitations, financial constraints, or safety concerns. The pandemic proved the viability and effectiveness of virtual engagement, and reverting to primarily in-person formats risks excluding valuable voices and weakening movements.
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