ABSTRACT
This chapter analyzes fannish engagement as political in its own right as well as an opportunity to develop evergreen organizing skills applicable to many different causes and situations. Fannish activism, as a self-aware and growing force, gives people, particularly young people, a language through which to engage with politics even in a society that is growing more and more divided. Study of fan activism provides essential insight into the power of self-organized, bottom-up, passion-driven activism and the unique communication tactics by which fans exercise this power. The kind of activism most associated with fans are 'Save Our Show' campaigns, which seek to convince power brokers in the entertainment industry not to cancel their beloved programs. Some fan organizations have found theirs in the cultural logics and ethical principles of their favourite media worlds and are mobilizing them to create 'real world' change.
