Organizing in an Age of Surveillance: Strategies for Grassroots Movements

In contemporary America, there is a notable disconnect between the federal government and a significant portion of the populace, leading many to pursue grassroots organizing as a means of resistance. This movement encompasses efforts to protect immigrants, counteract the Department of Homeland Security's actions, and advocate for civil rights. However, organizers face the challenge of operating under the watchful eye of a government equipped with extensive surveillance capabilities and supported by technology companies that manage vast amounts of personal data.

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Eva Galperin, director of cybersecurity at the Electronic Frontier Foundation, emphasizes the need for organizers to balance secrecy and openness. She notes that while some information should be kept confidential to prevent law enforcement from accessing sensitive data, the essence of organizing lies in public engagement and solidarity. This duality creates a complex environment where organizers must carefully consider their communication strategies and the platforms they utilize.

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Experts suggest that the first step in secure organizing is "threat modeling," which involves assessing potential surveillance risks and determining what information needs protection. This process helps organizers delineate between public and private communications. Matt Mitchell, CEO of Safety Sync Group, warns against overly broad encryption practices that could hinder effective communication. Instead, he advocates for a more nuanced approach, where organizers assess the likelihood of information becoming public and adjust their security measures accordingly.

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Galperin further advises that excessive secrecy can alienate new members and undermine the movement's goals. Activism often thrives on transparency and community engagement, which can be stifled by overly cautious security measures. For instance, while planning a small, private meeting may warrant confidentiality, larger events, such as public rallies, can be organized more openly.

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Organizers are encouraged to utilize both secure and public platforms, depending on the nature of their activities. Taylor Fairbank, cofounder of Distribute Aid, illustrates this point by highlighting the necessity of using mainstream platforms like Facebook to connect with communities in need. He acknowledges the risks but emphasizes that accessibility is crucial for effective humanitarian efforts.

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As grassroots movements continue to grow in response to governmental actions, the need for effective organizing strategies in an age of surveillance becomes increasingly critical. By employing threat modeling, maintaining a balance between secrecy and openness, and leveraging technology wisely, activists can work to build inclusive movements while minimizing the risks associated with surveillance. The challenge lies in fostering a welcoming environment for new participants while safeguarding sensitive information, ensuring that the power of collective action remains intact.

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