With the current social and political climate, many people want to use their voice to make a social impact. However, with the threat of COVID-19 still present, it might be hard for some people to go outside. Here are some things you can do from your computer. 

Register to vote

Voting is one of the best ways to make a change not only in your immediate community, but also in your city, state and nation.

DoSomething.org is known for its ability to make a change within people’s communities because of the number of causes it fights for and promote. The website now giving individuals the opportunity to register to vote online within their state. 

DoSomething states that registering to vote will only take two minutes. I registered to vote using this website and timed it. It only took me less than three minutes.

Change.org

Signing petitions is a great way to use your voice, too, while still abiding by social distancing requirements.

Change.org has many petitions for victims of police brutality, as well as petitions to implement change that people wish to see. For instance, participants from protests have started a petition to ban rubber bullet usage for crowd control. 

Donating retail rewards 

Sephora is giving customers the ability to use their Beauty Insider points to make donations to the National Black Justice Coalition, which is a civil rights organization dedicated to empowering LGBTQ+ people in the Black community.

When shopping at Sephora, customers get rewards for each purchase they make. Those with 500 points can donate $10, those with 1,000 can donate $20, and those with 1,500 points can donate $30.

Become familiar with victims’ stories

It is important to become familiar with those who have lost their lives as it is a reminder to never forget what they stood for. 

Aydan Garland-Miner, senior broadcast journalism major, said she used her time during COVID-19 to learn what it means to be an ally to underrepresented communities. She used her graphic design skills to promote awareness about victims of police brutality, she said.

Educate yourself 

Educating yourself about different cultures can be an active way to keep yourself informed on your own privilege. “Dear White People,” “Black-ish,” “Grown-ish” and “#BlackAF,” are shows that you can find on Hulu and Netflix that can give you an insight on Black culture.

Netflix documentaries such as “LA 92,” “13th” and “Let It Fall” are also great resources to watch. 

Diversify your social media algorithm 

A simple way to learn about different communities is to follow more people of color and informational accounts. This will give you the opportunity to view diverse content daily because most of us are on social media anyway.

Purchasing from Black-owned businesses

While stores and restaurants start to reopen, it is important to purchase from small businesses, especially those run by minorities. 

You can still use your voice during these times — these seven examples are ways you can do that while still staying safe.