My problem/challenge for my thesis project was to find a way to encourage individuals into community activism and involvement through design.

My answer is MOBSAY, a non-partisan tool to empower individuals on the verge of community activism into taking the first steps toward "positive activism". 

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In essence, this is a positive activism jump-starter resource kit. With the basic idea that “you catch more flies with honey than vinegar", the project utilizes a more tongue and cheek tone with it's visuals. The idea is avoid the current overly charged political atmosphere and have a resource the is approachable and encouraging to thou who want to become more involved in their communities.

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The focus is on “how do I get involved and where do I find information” and less of a need for the “I am watching you” approach. There is a powerful desire for activism growing every day and while there are broad approach tools available there is a lack of more intimate and positive focused tools readily available. You will notice the phrase “positive activism” repeated throughout the project, that is very much by design.

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The basis of the project is 2 parts: the "BARK Box" (Basic Action Resource Kit) the the MOBSAY website. The BARK Box isa kit with fun and practical tools for community involvement. Inflatable protest signs, collapsible megaphone, Field Notes journal, DIY message t-shirt, postcards, violation cards and more items with a fun slant that help give a starting point for individuals.

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The MOBSAY website serves as an information resource with the cornerstone being the ability to generate a "report card" with local statistics that an individual can use to start an informed conversation with their neighbor or local politician about local items of interest.