Better Late Than Never

Why We Should Celebrate “Late to the Party” Activists

Photo by Artem Maltsev on Unsplash

There’s this unspoken hierarchy in activist circles. The “old guard” who’ve been grinding away for decades, battle-scarred & weary, sometimes look sideways at the newbies who only just got woke. You’ve probably heard the whispers: “Where were you before?” or “Why did it take so long?” Maybe you’ve even thought it yourself.

But here’s the truth: some people had to be buffered from the full brutality of politics to survive. They didn’t get a front-row seat to the slow dismantling of democracy or the quiet cruelty of systemic oppression because life’s already got enough punches to the gut. They were busy raising families, working multiple jobs, healing from their own trauma, or simply trying to stay afloat. And that’s okay.

Now, they’re showing up—late to the party, sure, but with fire in their eyes * fists raised higher than ever. And that vim & vigor? That fresh energy is exactly what movements need to keep fighting.

Here’s why we should drop the judgment & celebrate the late bloomers:

1. New Energy Breaks Burnout Cycles
Activism is exhausting. The people who’ve been doing this for decades? They’re tired, & rightfully so. Fresh faces bring fresh energy, new ideas, & a hunger that can re-ignite the movement’s momentum.

2. They Bring Different Perspectives
People who weren’t always tuned in bring unique life experiences & viewpoints. Sometimes, their insights can help movements evolve, avoid old mistakes, or reach new communities.

3. It’s Not a Competition
Activism isn’t a game of who started first or who has the longest resume. It’s a collective effort to build a better world. Every voice, every hand counts, no matter when they joined.

4. The Stakes Are Higher Now
For some, the moment they finally understood what was at risk was too urgent to ignore. Politics &icy aren’t just abstract anymore—they’re life or death, freedom or oppression. When people finally see that, their commitment is fierce and real.

5. Building Bridges, Not Walls
Shaming newcomers only fractures movements & drives people away. Instead, we grow stronger by welcoming, mentoring, & learning from each other.

If you’re an older activist, remember what brought you here: probably a moment of awakening or heartbreak. If you’re a newer one, know that your passion is valid, & you’re exactly who we need.

So next time you hear “late to the party” whispered like a criticism, flip it on its head. Because better late than never, & we’re all stronger for it.

~AK