What does it truly mean to be an advocate?
I’ve asked myself this more times than I can count — especially when I see people so quick to embrace the label, yet so careless in upholding its meaning. Advocacy is not a performance. It’s not something you parade for applause or stamp beside your name for recognition. It’s not loud tweets or pretty captions. If anything, it’s quiet, it’s difficult, and it demands more from you than it ever rewards.
Lately, I’ve noticed a disturbing pattern. Some people claim to be advocates, yet act in complete contrast to the values they promote. They preach accountability, but won’t hold themselves to it. They talk about respect, but disrespect the very spaces they claim to protect. They demand change, but resist reflection. And frankly, it’s exhausting to witness.
Here’s the truth: real advocacy isn’t for show. It’s for service. It requires discipline, integrity, and the uncomfortable work of living out what you say — even when it’s inconvenient, even when no one’s clapping. You cannot pick and choose when to stand by your principles. You cannot preach about justice and fairness, only to turn around and act with arrogance, carelessness, or pride.
And no, being "passionate" doesn’t excuse hypocrisy. Passion without responsibility is just noise. And we have enough of that already.
To be an advocate is to carry weight — not just of your words, but of your actions. You represent something bigger than yourself. So if you can’t walk the talk, don’t claim the title. Don’t dilute the meaning for those who are actually doing the work, quietly, every day, without needing to be seen.
This isn’t a callout. This is a call to reflect. Advocacy, in its truest form, is not glamorous. It’s hard. But if you’re going to wear the word like a badge, then carry it with the respect, honesty, and effort it deserves.
Otherwise, don’t wear it at all.
