Table of Contents >
Chapter 33. Conducting a Direct Action Campaign >
Section 3. Criticizing Unfavorable Action >
Criticizing Unfavorable Action |
Tools & Checklists | Contributed by Phil Rabinowitz Edited by Bill Berkowitz |
Checklist
Here is a checklist summarizing the important points of the section.
What is criticizing unfavorable action?
You protest - usually publicly-that the action is:
__ Well-meaning, but ill-conceived action.
__ A public or private entity putting its own interests ahead of the public good.
__ Action, spurred by uninformed public opinion, that harms a cause or target population.
__ Actions that sweep problems under the rug.
__ Actions that are the result of unthinking prejudice or an ethnocentric world view.
Why criticize unfavorable action?
__ You criticize unfavorable action primarily to cancel or change it.
In pursuit of that goal, you may try to:
__ Spread the word about the situation.
__ Question the assumptions behind the action.
__ Correct false information.
__ Pinpoint what's wrong with the action.
__ Offer alternatives.
__ Garner support.
Who should criticize unfavorable action?
__ You choose spokespersons who are viewed as knowledgeable and trustworthy, with whom the audience can identify, and with whom they may be familiar.
When should you criticize unfavorable action?
__ You anticipate unfavorable action when possible, and criticize it before it begins.
__ You react to unfavorable action as quickly as possible in all instances.
__ You make your voice heard immediately when a previously unknown action comes to light.
__ You protest when new evidence of the unfavorable nature of an action surfaces.
__ You criticize immediately when necessary to prevent harm.
__ You continue to criticize until your succeed.
How do you criticize unfavorable action?
__ Do your research ahead of time
__ Be clear and specific
__ Support your arguments
__ Present clear alternatives
__ Offer to work with opponents
__ Assume the opponents are of good will unless you know otherwise
__ Use media to inform
__ Keep it up as long as necessary