principles

The next generation of exuberant activists.

To guide our activism, here are the five MAU Principles:

1. Be exuberant: Since we’re ACTING UP for the rest of our lives–with children at our side–our activism needs to be sustainable and joyful. Studies show that negative confrontations cause women to politically disengage. The MAU movement is organized not against individuals or policies, but towards realizing our collective vision.
2. Follow the money: Every dollar spent, each tax dollar collected is a vote. It’s time to get educated about what we’re funding with our budgets—from personal products to the government policies our tax dollars support. If anyone knows how to shop, balance a budget and make sure everyone eats, it’s mothers. Make sure your dollars vote for a healthy future for all children.
3. Connect the dots: In a global economy, all children’s wellbeing is connected. They breathe the same air, walk under the same sun, and live in countries at war or peace with each other. We need to measure the true impact of our actions—our consumption, energy & trade policies and national security strategies—not only by how they affect our children, but children everywhere. My, your and her child’s future health & happiness depend on our ability to connect the dots today.
4. Take two-handed actions: There are two ways to create change: direct aid and systemic change. Direct aid attends to immediate needs—donating food or providing shelter. Systemic change involves a dedicated lobby working for policy change with persistence and patience. The two handed approach is the best way to create lasting change.
5. Know the power of collective action: One voice calling for universal basic education is great. One hundred voices, better yet. One MILLION voices and policies change and universal education is funded. Together, we can create a better world for children. The greatest challenge is to focus our energies on what unites us.