Why Craftivism Matters: Using Crochet to Stand for Justice
Are you watching?
Because if you are, you have now seen history in the making.
Are you paying attention?
Because if you are, you should be reminded of how critical it is to stand together for marginalized communities.
In times of injustice, silence is complicity.
Gay and trans, disabled, female, minority and immigrant groups have been at the forefront of countless struggles for equality and basic human rights. Their courage and resilience fuel movements that demand dignity and respect for all. And now, more than ever, we need to echo their voices, amplify their stories, and fight back against hate and oppression.
But wait, why do I say “their” as if I’m not a part of multiple of those marginalized groups? I think as long as we see these groups as a “them” separate from ourselves, these issues will continue feeling foreign — as if they’re occurring in a distant land to faceless, nameless people. As women, we are at risk. As parents, our children attending schools may be at risk, especially if our littles are black, brown or ethnically ambiguous, special needs, immigrants, or LGBT. These issues affect us all.
What is an example of craftivism?
As a crochet artist, I find solace and strength in the quiet power of crafting. But crochet and craftivism is more than a creative outlet—it is a tradition rooted in resistance.
historical examples of craftivism
During the suffragette movement, women crocheted banners and symbols of unity. During wars and economic hardship, they used their craft to support their families and communities. In the United States, enslaved individuals used quilting to encode messages and symbols for escape routes in the Underground Railroad.
Today, crochet continues to play a pivotal role in activism. From conservation activism, with projects like crocheted coral reefs raising awareness about climate change and the destruction of marine ecosystems to women’s rights with the iconic pink “pussyhats” from the Women’s March, or gay rights with community projects like quilts commemorating the lives of AIDS victims.
modern examples of craftivism
Craftivism for Awareness
Have you checked out We Were, We Are? It’s my own
Craftivism for Fundraising
Of course you can fundraising from selling any items but many people make items related to the cause as a way to further support the cause, since the dedicated item would likely be a conversation starter.
Is that confusing to envision?
Take for example my support of Palestine.
I could choose to just donate a portion of sales to a grrassroots organization on the ground and continue making baby booties and teethers.
Byt instead I chose to make watermelon keychains and hairclips!
The watermelon is a well-known symbol of Palestine and so this not only donates to the cause but also spreads awareness – because you can bet that someone will it and comment on it (they are just that cute!)
The Power of Handmade in a Mass-Produced World
This tradition of crafting as a form of resistance is a poignant reminder of why handmade matters in a mass-produced world. Unlike factory-made goods, handmade items carry intention, care, and meaning in every stitch. They stand as a quiet rebellion against disposable culture and remind us of the value of human connection and creativity. (Read more about why handmade matters in a mass-produced world and how it ties into sustainability and mindful consumerism.)
Crafting is inherently inclusive. It crosses boundaries of gender, race, and class. It is a declaration of hope and resilience—a statement that beauty, love, and unity can thrive even in the darkest times.
As we navigate this new chapter of history, let us embrace the lessons of our past. Let us use our skills, our voices, and our collective creativity to push back against hatred and division. Let us craft symbols of solidarity and strength, and let every stitch be a thread that weaves us closer together.
How Cozy Daisy Stitchery Is Expanding Its Mission for Civil Rights
It is because of this that I will be adjusting Cozy Daisy Stitchery’s brand mission. I originally focused on my passion towards sustainability, family and access to education but now I am expanding that to include civil rights that are being threatened and social issues within the US as well.
Silence is complicity and I will be showing my children to stand up for their fellow man and woman. Sometimes doing the right thing is the hardest thing to do.
To my fellow crafters, parents, and dreamers: this is our time to act. Crochet that scarf in the colors of pride. Knit that blanket for a refugee child. Share your creations, and with them, your unwavering support for those who are fighting just to exist.
We cannot let the cruelty of the moment overshadow the humanity within us.
Together, we can craft a kinder, brighter future—one stitch at a time.
What will you create or purchase to make a difference?
Cozy Daisy Stitchery has an entire shop collection for activism so be sure to check out my craftivist creations and know that 15% will be donated to the ACLU.
