craftivism: craft + activism (typically for social and/or environmental justice)
Okay. So knittivism isn’t the only way to frame what we do. Many prefer to think of themselves as participants in “craftivism”, making their creative endeavors work for social good. Cross-stitch enthusiasts have Radical Cross Stitch, for instance. Sweaters, scarves and blankets may set some on the path to productivity, but the Missibility Radio Show has a call out for walking stick cozies (knitted or crocheted)!
Etsy is a leader in the internet marketplace for craft, and its blog, Etsy Garden, represents itself as “a place to watch our ideas grow.” One idea that Etsy’s garden is growing is support for particular social action projects, the latest of which supports another “local” group – in Maine. Etsy’s sellers are contributing part or all of the proceeds from the sale of their handmade items to Rape Response Services, a non-profit agency in Bangor, Maine, which provides a 24-hour hotline, community and business outreach, school-based outreach, volunteer training, and support groups for victims of sexual violence. The collaboration with Etsy is called Project for Hope and Healing, and runs through September 30, 2007. Any of us can participate as sellers or buyers – check the website for details.
