You can't care about everything all the time. So, what do you do when the world's a mess? Embrace your limitations and expand your definition of activism. Tune into Amnesty International Aotearoa New Zealand's monthly podcast ACTivate, and lean into listening as activism.

Listening is paying attention in a world where our focus is stolen by things that we don't really care about. It's a quiet act in a loud world. It is also a form of activism - and resistance. So, tune out the noise, steal back some time and show up for humanity by listening to absorbing conversation from around New Zealand and overseas

I interview activists, academics and change makers in the hope that their stories will ground you in what matters. This year ACTivate has covered a range of human rights issues: the government's potential rewrite of the Arms Act, which threatens to unwind our existing safe firearms laws; celebrated International Women's Day by interviewing Dr. Ellen Ford, who is on a mission to change the 9 to 5 for everyone because our wellbeing depends on it; chatted with Jacqui Dillon, our new executive director, who inspired by speaking of people power and ripples of change; and interviewed Dr Richard Jackson, Professor of Peace and Conflict Studies at Otago University, who said that right now, we are experiencing the largest wave of protests in documented history.

The people are standing up. Stand up with them and feel a sense of belonging and togetherness by listening to ACTivate (access via plains.org.nz or wherever you get your podcasts). And, if you're inspired to sign a petition, attend a protest or share a link, then, that's good too.

P.S. If your group has a story to share, then please get in touch: catherinebutchard@gmail.com

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This article was originally published in the July 2025 issue of Flame, Amnesty International Aotearoa New Zealand's supporter newsletter. To request a digital copy of Flame, please email us at info@amnesty.org.nz.

In this 60th Anniversary issue of Flame, we highlighted stories of courage that showcased the incredible power that we have when people come together to demand justice in the fight for human rights. You can help Amnesty International continue this work for another 60 years with a one-off donation today.