This article was originally published in BPM Magazine. Read the full version of the magazine here.
Through An Activist’s Eyes
Having had a passion for social justice from a young age, Claria Cutajar grew up to work with Malta’s most influential activist organisation, Moviment Graffitti. Between juggling her university work, focusing on her hobbies, and fighting for what she believes in, Claria’s life is an interesting blend of different rhythms.
Her journey with Moviment Graffitti started in 2021 after attending a couple of meetings. Upon meeting the members, she found that the organisation was made up of like-minded individuals who shared the same drive and passion as her.
During her day-to-day life, Claria classifies herself as medium BPM. However, giving speeches in front of crowds, marching through the streets, and having sit-in protests cause her BPM to undoubtedly rise. Claria embraces feelings of anxiety and doesn’t let herself shy away from pursuing activism.
While she has never had second thoughts about becoming an activist, she does say that it’s easy to get burnt out due to the many issues that need to be tackled. ‘I wouldn’t say I had second thoughts on being an activist. You can’t just stop being an activist. You owe it to your fellow activists and also to the people, and the community you’re working with. They are at times almost relying on you. You’re not able to stop just because you want to. It’s about what the group and the people need.’
However, being an activist comes with its fair share of backlash. Claria is no stranger to feeling anxious and stressed while protesting, especially when faced with counter-protests and harmful comments. But Claria doesn’t let these things get in the way of her passion. The beautiful community built by Moviment Graffitti allows for a safe space for activists, where everyone has each others’ backs.
When asked what advice Claria would give to her younger self, she replied ‘If I had to look back on my younger self, I’d just say keep going. Stick to it. There isn’t something in particular I’d change. The mistakes you make along the way are a teaching moment for you’.
Looking back on her activist journey, Claria explains that she joined Moviment Graffitti at the right time. Throughout these three years, she was able to channel her frustration towards social issues into a concrete purpose, whereby with the help of the other members, actual change could be achieved.
A memorable moment for Claria was the overnight camping demonstration in Mosta due to trees being uprooted in the square. Having to sleep in a tent on the pavement was a new experience for Claria, but with the team’s and the residents’ support, they continued their fight. Another was the fight against turning Marsaskala’s bay into a private marina. Moviment Graffitti was joined by residents who shared the same issues and concerns. Banding together as a whole was an inspirational moment as everyone was working as a community for a cause they cared deeply about. ‘It’s also empowering when it’s not us as activists leading the fight, but residents grouping together’.
While being an activist can take a toll on a person, Claria advises anyone interested in joining the fight to simply ‘go for it’. Becoming an activist means making other people’s voices heard and fighting for or against different issues. At the end of the day, one doesn’t become an activist for themselves, but for society.
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