So I've been pretty active with my local Occupy for a few months now, and it's become a pretty big part of my life. I've helped plan some big actions and am on a couple committees. My question is whether or not to mention this in personal statements, on my resume, and so on. It's a contentious issue, and I'm afraid admissions boards won't be happy about it. On the other hand, I'm applying to Environmental Economics programs, and environmentalists tend to be activism-minded people. On the same hand, anecdotally it seems to me that most outside support for Occupy comes from those with higher education. I have no citation for this, just my experience talking to people in bars and stuff.
A little more about my involvment: I work on logistics stuff. My activity is mostly focused on promoting the flow and dissemination of information (e.g., creating info sheets for new-comers). I do not advocate violence in any way, I advocate for fundamental change in the relationship between business and government. I occasionally march in the street, which I suppose is against the law as written, but I believe my right to march in the street is protected by the First Amendment regardless of a permit. I have never been arrested for my actions, thought I have had a brush with a riot shield or two.
Thanks for you help!