This is the first tutorial in our three-part series on op-ed writing. In this tutorial, we discuss the human rights approach to climate justice, how writing is a powerful tool for activism, how to identify what to write about, newsworthiness as a tool for getting your story out, and why you are the right person to tell your story and highlight the stories of your community.
LINKS MENTIONED
• Op-ed example: www.dailymaverick.co.za/artic...
MAIN TAKEAWAYS
Human Rights Approach to Climate Crisis:
• The Climate crisis is a human rights crisis with roots in colonialism and capitalism and requires an Afrocentric approach in Africa
• Our advocacy and writing should emphasize the human rights approach while focusing on solutions tailored for African communities, and challenges dominant Western narratives that people and planet are separate issues
Non-Fiction activist Writing and Narrative Building:
• Non-fiction writing is crucial for shaping narratives in climate activism.
• Key strategies include organizing information, incorporating storytelling, using compelling language, strategically framing issues, connecting to values, emphasizing urgency, exposing issues, relying on research, addressing counterarguments, offering solutions, issuing a call to action, and fostering alliances across organizations.
READ THE TRANSCRIPT OF THIS TUTORIAL
• docs.google.com/document/d/1P...
LEARN MORE ABOUT ACA
• Our website: www.africanclimatealliance.org/
• Download the ACA Activist Guide: www.africanclimatealliance.or...
• Browse ACA’s downloadable resources: www.africanclimatealliance.or...
• Follow ACA on social media:
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Twitter: / afrclimalliance
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