ABSTRACT
Images of people digging raised beds and planting vegetable seedlings are not conventional representations of activism. New social movement scholars see social movement activity as conducted by people who identify as activists and who are embedded within activist communities. In identity-based movements such as feminist, queer and ethnic and nationalist movements, a pre-existing identity is often seen as being of foundational importance and is used as the basis for organising. The International Permaculture Convergence was going to happen in Perth this was in 1996. Long-term activists must consciously and actively shape their lives in order to stay active. A number of Australian community gardening activists have undertaken international research journeys, visiting community gardens and community food initiatives in countries around the world. Community gardening was chosen consciously and strategically as a way to enact environmental and social justice values and to influence the actions of others.
