How To Organize a Demonstration
Depending on how well it is organized, how many people participate in it, how convincing its message is and how much coverage other media outlets devote to it, a demonstration can be an effective tool of media activism.
When and where to demonstrate
Make sure you have a convincing case of media bias-- unfounded accusations serve only to delegitimize your cause as well as future attempts at media reform. Also ensure that all other avenues have been exhausted, i.e. phone calls, letters and meetings have not worked. The best place to demonstrate is in front of the media outlet itself. Choose a time that makes it convenient for as many activists as possible to attend, and when most employees at the media outlet can observe the demonstration (e.g. early morning, lunch time, late afternoon).
Publicity
Try to allow at least a week to publicize your demonstration. Advertise through flyers, local community forums, newspapers and radio stations, and other activist groups and newsletters. (Community radio stations like the Pacifica affiliates will often announce demonstrations.) Include a name and number for information about last-minute changes.
Placards and signs
Distill the gist of your case and recommendations into a few pithy phrases and slogans. Most passersby do not have the time or inclination to chat with demonstrators, so it is important that your placards catch their attention and convey the message. Once you have their attention, they are more likely to take your fact sheets and other information.
Press packets and information sheets
Make sure you call the press well in advance, so that your demonstration gets reported. Prepare a detailed documentation of your case (e.g. photocopies of articles, letters to the editor, and the editor's replies), along with some recommendations (e.g. an apology from the editor or director, an expanded and more diverse panel of experts). Also include a one-page cover sheet which briefly summarizes the main points of your case. Remember: Don't burden the press with excessive information, but make sure your allegations are backed up with sound evidence. Give copies of the one-page cover sheet to passersby as well.
Slogans and chanting
To draw attention to your demonstration, you may want to chant catchy slogans. Try not to sound belligerent—think about the impression you are making on the targets of your demo and on passersby. Make your point in mainstream language that gives the greatest number of people the opportunity to agree with you. You want to show that you are the reasonable and principled side. Keep in mind that you are not calling for media censorship, but constructive reform.
Other details
You should brief one or two of your more articulate activists to be spokespersons to the media when they seek interviews. Be clear on what your main message is and make sure everyone who is interviewed stresses it. If you have planned a sufficiently large demonstration, you might want to include a few speakers too, so you may have to plan for a public address system, a podium, more information packets, a facilitator to conduct the event, etc.
How to Promote Programs onto TV
How to Get a Video on Cable Access
How to Organize a Speaking Event
