Social Movements in Dangerous Times: How This App Helps Activists Stay One Step Ahead

Progress Reimagined

For activists and organizers worldwide, digital tools have become vital infrastructure for creating change. Yet most rely on platforms designed for other purposes, with business models that don't prioritize movement needs. Emil Vincentz, Executive Director at Acter, discusses how their encrypted organizing app is building technology that truly serves social movements rather than extracting value from user data and attention. This conversation explores the challenges of digital organizing in an era of increased authoritarianism, the importance of secure and usable tools, and how decentralized technology can help preserve activist spaces. Whether you're an activist, community organizer, or simply concerned about digital rights, this discussion offers valuable insights on creating technology that puts people before profit.
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Key Topics:
-The difference between mobilizing vs. organizing in social movements
-How current digital tools shape activist organizing (often not for the better)
-Matrix protocol and decentralized technology for movement security
-Designing technology that respects user attention and privacy
-Security challenges for activists in restrictive environments
-Creating sustainable movement structures that don't rely on individuals
-Balancing usability with security in activist technology
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📖 Further Reading
Polycrisis
Digital Hygiene
Digital Security Tips for Protesters
Mesh Network
Gen Z Has Regrets
About Matrix
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Connect With Acter:
Acter App available on iOS and Android app stores
Digital Activism Podcast: https://acter.global/podcast/
Reach out to Emil: emil at acter.global or hello at acter.global
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/acter-global/posts/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/acterglobal.bsky.social
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acterglobal/

Progress Reimagined explores innovative ideas, technologies, and emerging economic models that put humanity and our planet first. The show challenges assumptions to reshape how we think about progress and prosperity.
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Kathleen Chu, Host of Progress Reimagined
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