How to Turn Anger and Anguish into Strategic Action for Change

In times of uncertainty and injustice, emotions like anger and anguish can be powerful catalysts for change—if channeled strategically. David Simas, CEO of the Obama Foundation, and Jonathan F.P. Rose, cofounder of the Garrison Institute, share insights on transforming these emotions into effective action.

David Simas emphasizes that suppressing or fully identifying with anger leads to stagnation. Instead, he advocates for:

Acknowledging emotions without letting them control you
Assessing anger to understand its roots in injustice
Using discomfort as fuel for strategic action

"Don’t turn away from it, face it. Don’t just identify with it; work in it." - David Simas

2 Approaches to Channeling Anger into Action

Simas contrasts two protest scenarios to demonstrate strategic vs. unfocused action:

1. Ineffective Action: Protest Without Demands

500 people march to a precinct
No clear demands or participant records
No follow-up plan
Result: Temporary awareness without systemic change

2. Strategic Action: Protest With Clear Goals

March with specific policy demands (e.g., banning chokeholds)
Participant contact information collected
Defined follow-up actions
Result: Creates accountability and measurable change

Define clear objectives - What specific policies or changes do you want?
Build coalitions - Identify potential allies across ideological lines
Create accountability - Document participation and track outcomes
Plan for the long-term - Change requires sustained effort

Additional Resources for Mindful Activism

Watch the full conversation between Rose and Simas
Explore the Mindful Cities initiative
Read more about compassionate action

By combining emotional awareness with strategic planning, we can transform moments of anguish into movements that create real, lasting change.

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Turning Anger into Strategic Action for Change