NCJ Number
231608
Date Published
2009
Length
52 pages
Annotation
This practice guide provides tips for "media advocacy" for juvenile detention reform, which involves engagement with the media in promoting such reforms.
Abstract
Written specifically for juvenile justice advocates and officials, this handbook provides step-by-step media approaches to promote the system reforms achieved through the Juvenile Detention Alternative Initiative (JDAI), which is being promoted by the Annie E. Casey Foundation in order to reduce the detention of juveniles while encouraging the development of alternative community treatment and services for delinquent youth. A variety of approaches are proposed for interactions with the media that can promote juvenile detention reform and the development of community-based alternatives for youth. One approach is to develop proactive strategies that highlight juvenile justice reforms, particularly the most important outcomes and achievements. A second approach is to respond to juvenile justice stories in media news by pointing out and encouraging corrections in common misconceptions. A third approach is to cultivate relationships with media officials and select individuals to be informed, trusted sources for media contact. Another approach is to promote and provide the media with juvenile justice systems' latest data and statistics. The guide provides an overview of how the media can help achieve reform goals; offers tips on how to coordinate a proactive media campaign that involves an appealing public message; and outlines the time-tested details of writing a press release, giving an interview, and influencing public perceptions. Key resources are suggested for how to shape public opinion in support of juvenile justice reform; and sample op-eds, letters to the editor, and press releases are provided. Examples of positive media coverage are appended.