The Declaration of Peace

Peace Movement Sets Sept. 21 Deadline for US Plan to Chart New Course on Iraq — Thousands to Take Action if Plan Not Established

CHICAGO, MONDAY, JULY 24, 2006:
The Declaration of Peace is a nationwide campaign to establish by September 21, 2006 a concrete and rapid plan for peace in Iraq, including:

• A prompt timetable for withdrawal of US troops and closure of bases
• A post-occupation peace process for security, reconstruction, and reconciliation, and
• A shift of funding from war to meeting human needs

Thousands of people across the U.S. have signed The Declaration of Peace pledge, a commitment to take nonviolent action if Congress does not pass legislation establishing this comprehensive plan for peace in Iraq by September 21, The International Day of Peace.

Media Contact: (773) 777-7858
press@declarationofpeace.org

Sample Resources for Declaration of Peace Media Work

Below are sample press resources for local organizers to use for media work related to Declaration of Peace events (The content of documents in Word and in PDF are the same):

Sample Documents as Word Files:

Sample Press Advisory [doc]
Sample Local Press Release [doc]
Media Talking Points [doc]

• Learn what interests particular editors and slant your press releases accordingly.
• Keep your press release non-rhetorical and concise—limited to one page if possible.
• Make sure the press release includes the “who, what, when, where and why.”
• Make sure you include address, building and room number so reporters can easily find your event.
• Put your news hook in the first paragraph and other information in descending order of importance.
• Give it an exciting, headline-like title.
• Include the name, phone number and e-mail of a contact person.
• If your organization has a web site include the address
  

A tool in the “PR toolbox” to influence public opinion that is often under utilized by activists is editorial board meetings.

The purpose of arranging an editorial board meeting (EBM) is to influence the editors to support your position on an issue and write an editorial. You should not be intimidated to call to arrange an EBM especially for your local newspaper.

My experience, working with dozens of newspapers around the country, is that they are more than willing to meet with clients I’ve worked with time permitting. You want to call weeks in advance and try and stay away from election periods when editors get extremely busy meeting with local candidates.

Accessing the media is easier than most people realize. The most important thing is that you do something. If you haven’t worked with your local media now is the time to begin. The following is a list of suggestions on how to get the Declaration of Peace into your local media.

Write a Letter to the Editor - Call your local newspaper first; ask for the editor in charge of the letters to the editor section and inquire what the guidelines are for submitting a letter. If your letter does not appear in a few weeks it is appropriate to call to make sure they received it. At that time you can ask if they intend to run it. The editorial page is highly read.