But how do you take the power back? How do you yell shark and get people to listen when they've been desensitized by an ocean full of fake sharks?

Start with yourself. Prefer better alternatives whenever possible.

If you have the means: Start hosting. Contribute (code, tutorials, docs). Spread the word. Contribute funds to projects. Answer support questions/GH issues/forum posts from people who are having issues.

When it comes to people you know and interact with, start with the “low-hanging fruit” (individuals who have skills/interest in technology or are already agreeing about the problem).

Be the change you wish to see in the world.

I used to be outwardly and loudly critical of the system and people supporting it, but that got me nowhere, just isolated. When I stopped all criticism and just started aligning my life how I would like others to live, I finally started to get somewhere.