I have always believed in supporting platforms that aim to give a voice to the people, which is why Change.org has been my go-to option for rallying support on important issues. However, I have found myself increasingly frustrated by their practice of pre-selecting monthly donations for change.org during the checkout process. This experience makes me hesitate to support Change.org financially, as it feels like an imposition rather than a choice. 

Many users, like myself, feel pressured to contribute this additional amount when checking out because the donation box is already ticked. This practice may unintentionally mislead contributors who might not notice they are giving more than they intended. According to a survey conducted in 2022, over 60% of users prefer to make informed, voluntary decisions when it comes to donations, without pre-selected alternatives.

By automatically selecting the donation option, Change.org risks losing the trust and continued support of its user base. This could ultimately lead to decreased overall contributions, both to the causes promoted on the site and to the platform itself. The essence of donations is rooted in willingness and empathy, and pre-selection undermines this fundamental principle.

To build a more transparent and ethical donation process, Change.org should consider removing the pre-selected donation option. Instead, providing a clear, opt-in choice would empower users to contribute out of genuine support rather than obligation. This change could enhance user experience, trust, and satisfaction while ensuring continued, voluntary financial backing for the platform.

Join me in urging Change.org to adopt a more user-friendly approach by eliminating the pre-selection of donations at checkout. Sign this petition to support a choice-driven, ethical funding model that respects user autonomy and champions the spirit with which Change.org was established.