Messaging and press releases
Political parties have the influence and resources to put their ideas into the public domain and shape public opinion on issues. One of the ways parties do this is to send out press releases, statements, social media content and comment on their policies, issues and local activities. The topics you talk about and the angle your communications take is just as important as the language you use in promoting equality and achieving equal representation.
Some actions you should consider include:
- Regularly reviewing the types of stories you are putting out through your communication channels to check for unconscious bias
- Give equal communications coverage to different sections of your party. For example, if you are publicising the work and campaigns of your disabled person’s network less than other committees and groups think about why and what you need to do to change this
- Write a communications and media policy which includes how you will promote equality and diversity
- Be aware of not staying silent on issues affecting people from underrepresented groups which people from overrepresented groups might think are less important
- Consider how people from underrepresented groups could input into communications strategies and influence how issues affecting them are communicated by the party
