(THE THREE R's)
STEP 1: REVIEW
- If you see an offensive ad, film, sitcom, etc., jot down a complete, objective statement of facts: e.g., contents, date and time, where it was shown or broadcast.
- Find out who is the person responsible. If an ad, the head of the company. If a TV show, the head of the network. If a movie, the head of the studio. Get his or her title, address, and telephone number.
STEP 2: RESPOND
- WRITE a short, simple letter stating your objections to what you saw or heard to the person in charge. Phone calls or emails should be used only as follow-up methods. And ALWAYS photocopy your letters, sending a copy of each to the following:
- The Public Relations Department of the studio, radio station, etc.
- Letters to the Editor of your local largest daily and/or weekly newspaper.
- The Anti-Defamation representative in your local area (usually your largest local Italian American club or organization.)
- The NIAF Media Institute (1860,19th St., NW Washington, DC 20009.)
- Your own file, for future reference.
- If or when you do receive a response, send copies to your local Anti-Defamation group and the NIAF Media Institute. They can then advise you on how to evaluate a proper response, either from you or from them.
STEP 3: READ
- Communicate with other Italian American activists via email or faxes to support other media offences throughout the country.
- Read as much as you can about Italian/Italian American culture. You can use these facts in your anti-defamation efforts. Send for the NIAF's free study, Italian Americans in U.S. History and Culture, a large (9X12) stamped ($1.65) self-addressed envelope to: NIAF FACT SHEETS, 1860 19th St., NW Washington, DC 20009).
- IMPORTANT NOTE: If you see a POSITIVE ad, film, etc. send a complimentary letter pronto. This is a powerful way of circumventing future negatives because it encourages the person or persons to capitalize on the good vibes of being praised. Try it. It works!
[Prepared by Bill Dal Cerro]
|
