Great advice! In our outrage it’s too easy to keep highlighting the lies. Reframing will take a little practice but this strategy is very logical once we think about it.
Once again, thank you, Antonia. I’ll be sharing widely. I’m distressed that asking folks to change their verbal behavior can exacerbate fear and denial before it triggers change, but we have to just keep on asking.
I don't think I do that but instead will share things like your posts and others on here that have something important to explain about what is happening. I have to admit though that I have limited exposure to anyone that thinks differently. I do run across a few. What I hope to do is get more people involved in the fight to save our country. Just saying that....Thank you for what you do!
It is emotionally draining to hear, and mentally fight back the endless torrent of spew. The volume used has its own purpose, to exhaust and demoralize you. For myself, I have to turn the the comments around, as referenced, to define the real truth in other words and avoid the original catch phrases. You must also identify a new positive purpose/outcome or goal to fight FOR something. No matter how small, taking positive action gives renewed energy.
Thanks for your very helpful perspective. Is there a trick to reframing by using just a few words or short phrases that are as catchy as the lies? Do you have a post about that somewhere?
It's not a trick. Republicans' short phrases were all backed by lengthy narratives elaborated on radio programs and by news figures. We have to tell different narratives, and only then will our "bumper sticker phrases" work.
I have done workshops for state party leaders through the Association of State Democratic Committees under Ken Martin, but he's been busy lately. It would help if people sent my stuff to him or posted it in comments on his social media. He knows who I am but maybe could use a reminder!
The truth sandwich should only be used when you absolutely must convey the information and there is no way to paraphrase or reframe what is being said. 99% of the time, we're just repeating to say, "look what a-holes they are," which isn't important news or persuasive.
1. Others on podcast have similar, but not identical writings on what to say, what not to say. For example, Jess Piper, Jessica Craven, or Anat Shenker-Osorio. I would find it helpful to point out where you folks agree. This helps us who are willing to do the work, but sometimes subscribe to too many podcasts for ideas on what to do, what to say, and when to do both.
2. In football, there is a penalty called piling on. I feel I am about to do that. Your title chould be "what do say so others can hear what you are saying and writing. But, I am not a crisp writer
Great advice! In our outrage it’s too easy to keep highlighting the lies. Reframing will take a little practice but this strategy is very logical once we think about it.
Once again, thank you, Antonia. I’ll be sharing widely. I’m distressed that asking folks to change their verbal behavior can exacerbate fear and denial before it triggers change, but we have to just keep on asking.
Thank you, Antonia, for continuing to educate us on how to reframe our messages to not unintentionally reinforce Trump’s and the GOP’s lies.
You are right on! Let’s go farther… the DNC/blue bigwigs should buy air time on Fox and send these competing messages to rural and Maga uneducated.
Antonia - You are spot on!!! We have to start debunking these false claims … and not feel guilty about being “fact checkers”.
I don't think I do that but instead will share things like your posts and others on here that have something important to explain about what is happening. I have to admit though that I have limited exposure to anyone that thinks differently. I do run across a few. What I hope to do is get more people involved in the fight to save our country. Just saying that....Thank you for what you do!
It is emotionally draining to hear, and mentally fight back the endless torrent of spew. The volume used has its own purpose, to exhaust and demoralize you. For myself, I have to turn the the comments around, as referenced, to define the real truth in other words and avoid the original catch phrases. You must also identify a new positive purpose/outcome or goal to fight FOR something. No matter how small, taking positive action gives renewed energy.
Preach! I will begin reframing immediately!
I cannot help but ask why you had to chose that title for your post that blasted into my email inbox just now. Seriously?
This is my life on Substack lately.
I come across an interesting writer/community, so I subscribe.
And then eventually I have to quit because it's just too much.
Lather, rinse, repeat. It is so frustrating.
Thanks for your very helpful perspective. Is there a trick to reframing by using just a few words or short phrases that are as catchy as the lies? Do you have a post about that somewhere?
It's not a trick. Republicans' short phrases were all backed by lengthy narratives elaborated on radio programs and by news figures. We have to tell different narratives, and only then will our "bumper sticker phrases" work.
I recommend you start reading back through my archives to learn more! https://reframingamerica.substack.com/archive
Antonia, you have been hacked
Thanks!
Have you shared your tips with the Democratic leadership? They should be educated on this!!
I have done workshops for state party leaders through the Association of State Democratic Committees under Ken Martin, but he's been busy lately. It would help if people sent my stuff to him or posted it in comments on his social media. He knows who I am but maybe could use a reminder!
https://bsky.app/profile/kenmartin.bsky.social
Great post, but I wonder if your recommendations negate the Lakoff Truth Sandwich of truth, lie, truth?
The truth sandwich should only be used when you absolutely must convey the information and there is no way to paraphrase or reframe what is being said. 99% of the time, we're just repeating to say, "look what a-holes they are," which isn't important news or persuasive.
thank you. Your writings provide unique insight.
Two constructive thoughts:
1. Others on podcast have similar, but not identical writings on what to say, what not to say. For example, Jess Piper, Jessica Craven, or Anat Shenker-Osorio. I would find it helpful to point out where you folks agree. This helps us who are willing to do the work, but sometimes subscribe to too many podcasts for ideas on what to do, what to say, and when to do both.
2. In football, there is a penalty called piling on. I feel I am about to do that. Your title chould be "what do say so others can hear what you are saying and writing. But, I am not a crisp writer
Too much stuff in my email for sure! Wish it was easier to delete. Cuz it's really crowded!
I cannot help but ask why you had to chose that title for your post that blasted into my email inbox just now. Seriously?
This is my life on Substack lately.
I come across an interesting writer/community, so I subscribe.
And then eventually I have to quit because it's just too much.
Lather, rinse, repeat. It is so frustrating.
Sorry! I didn't mean it as click bait. That's what I call this horrible habit of parroting all of their BS verbatum without even saying why its wrong!