Tools for Communicating Your Beliefs

Communicating progressive positions in ways that are effective, drawing on shared progressive values, and do not perpetuate right-wing assumptions and models, is a skill well worth learning.

The most prominent teacher on how to affect policy change and opinion, in this time of cultural civil war, is George Lakoff, of the Rockridge Institute.

"Don't Think of an Elephant: Know Your Values and Frame the Debate," is Lakoff's brief and easy-to-read guide to effectively communicating your views.  People around the country are discussing this book and using this tool to challenge their elected officials and the media.

Available from independent book seller, Powells for $10. (Also at local bookstores.)

Frameworks Institute is another group that does great work on framing, particularly on children's and health and human service issues. Check out their publications, including their "E-Zines".

When asked about the first, refer to the latter:

Tax Relief = Baby Tax, Fiscal Child Abuse
Same Sex Marriage = The Right to Marry
Trial Lawyers = Public Protection Attorneys
Environmental Protection = Poison-free Communities
Fiscally conservative = Fiscally responsible
Abortion = Ending a pregnancy
Privatizing Social Security = Gambling with our Nest Egg

Practice by Writing a Letter to the Editor