In the field of body liberation and fat acceptance, we often call ourselves activists—not just educators or advocates, but people actively resisting and challenging harmful norms. Our work isn’t just about awareness—it’s about pushing back and helping others do the same. While youth work in the EU often focuses on local and international initiatives to create a more inclusive society, activism doesn’t have to be big or organized to be meaningful. You don’t need a title or a strategy to start advocating for a world where every body is valued and free to exist authentically.

This is where micro-activism comes in—small, meaningful actions taken by individuals that make a real difference. It’s accessible, spontaneous, and impactful because it doesn’t require lots of resources or even an outspoken personality. Here are nine ways you can start practicing micro-activism today:

1. Learn about body shape and size discrimination

This issue is still widely misunderstood, and many myths need debunking. Educate yourself about the ways body size and shape injustice manifest in society. Not sure where to begin? Check out our glossary [link to glossary] and expand from there. Whether you prefer books, articles, or videos, critical reflection is key—how do societal norms, policies, and practices continue systems of discrimination? The more you learn, the easier it becomes to recognize and challenge these injustices.

2. Listen to those who are marginalized

Beyond research, listen to people’s lived experiences. Gaining personal insight into body shape and size discrimination helps deepen your understanding. Open, unbiased conversations on this topic are still rare, so actively seek awareness. Ask questions, create space for people to share, and pay attention—not just with your ears but with your mind and heart. This applies in personal interactions as well as youth work settings.

3. Radical self-acceptance

In a culture that profits from body dissatisfaction, embracing your body as it is becomes an act of defiance. Change starts with examining your own beliefs and relationship with your body. Challenge beauty standards, reject societal expectations, and move toward radical self-acceptance. By existing unapologetically, you show others the power of body diversity. For young people especially, seeing body liberation in action helps reshape ideas of what’s “normal” and “acceptable.” If you live in a marginalized body, your presence alone is resistance.

4. Use language as a form of activism

Our words shape reality. This manual includes a chapter on inclusive language [link to chapter], but beyond being mindful, you can intentionally use language as a tool for activism. For example, using the word “fat” as a neutral descriptor helps reclaim its power and dismantle stigma. That said, be mindful of context—reclamation should empower, not harm.

5. Support marginalized voices on social media

Before systemic change happens, it starts on a grassroots level. Activists and content creators on social media educate, spark discussions, and provide visibility for marginalized bodies. As a social media user, you have power—following, engaging with, and sharing content from these creators increases their visibility and broadens the conversation. By amplifying their voices, you’re directly supporting body liberation work.

6. Support ethical businesses and organizations

Choose to support brands, businesses, and organizations that align with body liberation values—those offering inclusive sizing, advocating for diversity, or rejecting size and shape discrimination. Financial and vocal support for ethical businesses, especially those owned by marginalized people, strengthens both their livelihood and the movement.

7. Advocate, speak up, or be an ally

Use your voice and privilege to advocate for those who are marginalized. In youth work, this might mean ensuring spaces are inclusive. In everyday life, advocacy can be as simple as redirecting conversations, challenging body-shaming comments, or supporting a friend who’s experienced discrimination. Acknowledging injustice and making it clear that it won’t go unnoticed is powerful activism.

8. Organize a support group

Building community is resistance. Support groups create spaces where people feel seen, validated, and empowered to challenge body discrimination together. Whether it’s gathering with like-minded friends or facilitating an open support group for youth, fostering solidarity is a simple yet impactful way to drive change.

9. Expand your inclusion work to address body diversity

If you already work in inclusion-focused spaces—whether education, activism, or social work—integrating body diversity is an easy yet powerful extension of your efforts. Whether creating educational materials, planning events, or writing projects, acknowledge body shape and size as legitimate grounds for discrimination. Small, consistent changes contribute to broader systemic shifts in inclusion and justice.

This article was created within an Erasmus+ funded project Microlearning for Body Liberation, contract No. 2024-1-LV02-KA210-YOU-000247374. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or The Agency For International Programs For Youth in Latvia (JSPA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.