Inspiring social change through print, spoken word, and creative action.

I was asked in an interview recently what Words as Weapons actually is: Is it a site where people can post ideas? Is it a site where people can find out about new creative political and social actions? Is it a site where people can submit and trade stories about direct action projects with which they are involved?

My answer is, "Sure, all of the above, and more." When I started the site, I had one goal. With my limited HTML programming abilities, I wanted to create a space that addressed underdog political and social issues such as the Western Shoshone land rights struggle, ibn Kenyatta's imprisonment and protest, and other similar topics. I felt it important to raise issues and actions that don't or wouldn't receive press in the mainstream media. In 1995 I had published two issues of a print magazine called "Headline Communications" which did the same thing, and this website was designed to replace having to publish a print magazine about the same ideas. As time has gone on, I have filled the site with issues and ideas that I have a close connection with, a few stories from the limited submissions that have come in, and links to a wide range of important pages.

In order to hear new ideas and to expand the site beyond my projects, I've added a forum to which people can post ideas and thoughts and create a sense of community. Please note that I said a "sense" of community. Computers, when it all comes down, are cold, lifeless and less smart than you are. If you want real community, turn the computer off and see what your next door neighbor is up to today. For the time being though, feel free to share some thoughts by emailing and letting us know about the project, release, or idea you have to share. We'd be happy to hear from you.

Thanks!