Resource Type:

How To

Posted On: Aug 22, 2008

Posted By: Heather Hamilton

Description:

A Message Builder from the U.S. in the World Initiative, Prepared for the Peace and Security Initiative

This Message Builder is a resource for advocates of stronger, more coherent U.S. policies to deemphasize the role of nuclear weapons. It is a follow-on to the 2008 Peace and Security Legislative Strategy Retreat (PSLSR) and is based on recent public opinion research and consultations with the planning committee of the PSLSR and senior Capitol Hill staff. It differs from previous USITW guidance due to its specific intent: To facilitate the preparation of messaging points for direct communication with Members of Congress and their staff. The recommendations in this guide, for example, use some words and phrases that would be considered jargon if the audience was the general public; this guide also urges a stronger focus on national interest than might be appropriate in talking with mainstream Americans, who are more likely to want a synthesis of interests and values. Additionally, this guide draws heavily on suggestions from senior Hill Staff about the messages that – in their experience and informed opinion – would be most likely to resonate with Members of Congress in this political season. The Hill Staff’s suggestions did not always coincide with the instincts and habits of peace and security advocates. Of particular note was the Staff’s strong recommendation that advocates not ask politicians to support abolishing nuclear weapons; instead, Staff
recommended talking about deemphasizing the role of nuclear weapons and walking (not running) down a path toward a nuclear weapons free world.