Working with Media

A growing number of right-wing groups have sprung up on college campuses nationwide. These well-funded groups promote anti-feminist, anti-abortion, and anti-lesbian and gay messages on campus. Part of an FMLA’s job on campus is to redirect the media’s attention from these right-wing groups and provide a feminist perspective on local, state, and nationwide events. In order to achieve this goal, FMLAs must develop and deliver effective media messages.

Press Chair

The Press Chair is an elected position of leadership in the FMLA. The Press Chair acts as a liaison to campus and community press, garnering press coverage for the group whenever there is an opportunity. The Press chair coordinates the media strategy for each event with the Public Relations chair. The Press Chair should contact a Campus Organizer for suggestions about getting press, developing press lists, writing media advisories and press releases, and setting up interviews for the spokesperson. The Press Chair is responsible for collecting all press clippings to send to the Campus Team.

Create A Press List

Contact campus and local newspapers and ask for the names of reporters who cover women’s and feminist issues. Take note of TV stations, newspapers, and reporters who have given reliable and favorable coverage of these issues in the past. If your campus has a public relations office, ask them for a list of local media.

Contact other progressive organizations to see if they have press contacts. Collect all names and contact information. The Press Chair should keep and frequently update this file.

Planning is crucial

Take the time to design an effective strategy to achieve your press goals. Set deadlines and start planning early, just as you do for other components of an action.

Media Tips & Resources

Download Chapter 7 - Publicity & Media of the Organizer's Binder for more information.