How to use social media to combat drug violence

Illegal drug trafficking and the violence it spawns can splinter a community and silence its members. But you can fight back! Use social media to unite your voice with others' – and make the power of one the power of many.

WARNING: Know the law in your area. If your country does not permit or value free speech, consider the risks before voicing your opinion.

Step 1: Create a watchdog group
Create an online citizen watchdog group to monitor your local community. Use a variety of media: a blog, videos, photos, a Twitter feed, comments, helpful resources and links, and whatever else will serve your needs best.

Step 2: i-report
Report acts of violence via social media as they’re happening, a process called i-reporting.

Step 3: Create a support network
Create an online forum for victims and their family as a support network.

Step 4: Recruit
Cast a wide net to reach a diverse audience. Encourage respected community members, students, artists, NGOs, nonprofits, and local business leaders to participate in your watchdog group, follow your Twitter feed, and join your social-networking page.

Step 5: Protest
Organize mass events. Start an online petition, or stage live or virtual protests against drug violence. Determine the action that will make the most impact on your situation, and whether it’s safer to carry it out in person or online.

Step 6: Share your success
Let one success lead to another. Share the methods behind your most effective grassroots online efforts and follow like-minded groups to learn from their achievements. Now, watch your world change, one person at a time.

Fact: The organization SOS Mexico, which began in 2008 to combat violent kidnappings, allows people to submit videos, comments, tips, and photos to their web site and social-networking pages, turning every citizen into a security monitor.