The HIV and AIDS epidemic in Native communities is a complex issue that is difficult to convey in a few short sentences but when involving the media it is important that we convey our key messages concisely. These are the key messages that you should include when you pitch reporters and when your spokesperson gets interviewed.
One way to think about defining your key messages is to take your issue and write talking points (a few short sentences) on:
- What is the problem (what's your frame of reference, what's the impact)?
- What is the solution?
- What is the action you are asking people to take?
Sample Media Talking Points for National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day
Problem: HIV and AIDS are growing fast among American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian people. Though we have the smallest racial/ethnic population, we have the third highest rate per 100,000 persons (above Whites) of AIDS diagnoses. Few Native communities are aware of the magnitude of the HIV and AIDS threat to our communities.
Solution: The National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is held on the first day of Spring, March 20, 2008. It is a time for American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian communities and allies to raise awareness to the devastating effects HIV and AIDS have had on Native communities.
Action: Please join the combined effort of Native communities and allies across the nation to raise awareness around HIV and AIDS by helping to:
- Get an HIV test and learn your HIV status OR
- Learn more about HIV/AIDS and how to protect yourself and your community OR
- Organize a National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day event to raise awareness in your community
Any of the three actions or a combination of these three actions could be used in your Media Talking Points. However, keep in mind that it is important to keep the action message short and simple.
Create your own Media Talking Points:
• Problem:
• Solution:
• Action:
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