The Big Question: What to do?

A Recommendation to Reflect and Find the Role that's Right for You

In the current political climate, in which nonprofits and democracy are under assault, what is a concerned citizen to do? Many of us are struggling to determine how we can respond to the dramatic, disruptive actions of the current federal administration. There is no easy answer, but here’s a thought to consider: start by getting in touch with your own superpowers.

I am grateful that I was able to participate last month in a thought-provoking book group hosted by Noreen Elbert and Khanh Nguyen at Seattle University. We read and discussed Deepa Iyer’s book, Social Change Now: A Guide for Reflection and Connection. As the title suggests, the book presents a framework for thinking about one’s role in creating meaningful social change. Iyer identifies ten roles that are all needed in a healthy “social change ecosystem” and provides an assessment and reflection questions to guide readers in identifying the roles they are best suited for.

Image description: Image of Iyer’s social change ecosystem showing circles naming a variety of roles surrounding a central circle containing the word “equity, liberation, justice, solidarity.”

Most of us know the joy of contributing our best work in alignment with our values. This is easiest to do when we are offering what we are best at and/or most passionate about learning. Knowing whether you are a visionary or a caregiver, a builder or a disruptor, can guide your choice of actions.

I affirmed my bent for building, but I also appreciated reflecting on how my best contribution may shift as a get older. Stepping back from direct leadership and program delivery and serving as a guide or network weaver is appealing. And now that I am a free agent and not constrained by representing an organization, does this free me up to be a disrupter?

What role do you want to play? Iyer makes a convincing argument that all roles are needed to build a sustainable movement for change. She acknowledges that the work is hard, encourages rest, and affirms the heartbreak and hope that social change activists experience.

No time for the book? Spend ten minutes reflecting on a summary of the Social Change Ecosystem Framework here. Or, make a plan to join me at the Washington State Nonprofit Conference in May, where Deepa Iyer will be a keynote speaker. Finally, you can subscribe to Iyer’s Substack, Throughlines.