Letters, Phone calls
and Faxes |
Once false studies have been spread in the
media, they create the illusion of scientific accuracy. Once
rooted in the public perception, they are difficult to change.
For example the manipulation of public opinion through the misuse
of polls is a serious threat to the South African democracy and
to the freedoms of its citizens.
The claim that public opinion polls show strong
support for stricter gun legislation is incorrect. Many of these
highly politicised polls are fraudulent.
Every media and website poll
has shown strong support for firearms ownership.
The only way of changing the
false public perception created by media reports is to challenge
the data presented and the media for publishing unchecked
factoids.
Good points in writing to the media.
- Keep your letter short to
100..200 words or less.
- Focus on one or two main
ideas.
- If possible, type your
letter.
- Send it as soon as you
can. FAX or email it.
- Communicate clearly.
Express a forceful opinion on one side of the issue.
- Avoid prejudice and
statements that bring firearms owners into disrepute.
- Write your letter in
response to a story or editorial printed in the
newspaper.
- The first sentence is the
most important, so write it carefully. Proof-read.
- Research information is
available from many internet sources.
- Once you have a good track
record, try writing opinion pieces (650-750 words).
- Many editorial pages
welcome letters that challenge the newspapers
viewpoint.
- Avoid personal attacks,
concentrate on the views or opinion.
- Include your name, phone
number, address and signature for verification.
- Be diplomatic by
correcting distorted facts and avoiding abusive language.
- Work in small writing
teams to pool ideas and help one another.
- Feel free to copy and
distribute this information to other interested people.
The South African
Firearm Forum has a number of good
letter writers and much experience that you can draw on. They
would be only to happy to help you.
Copyright © 2001 Crimefree South
Africa, all rights reserved.