If your institution has had a conflict involving racism or sexism, you might develop messages that highlight the institution's response, the benefits to learning that come with diversity, and the growth that can ultimately result from conflict. A majority think diversity education can help bring society together at a time when the nation is growing apart. Washingtonians believe that diversity has a positive effect on both the general atmosphere on campus and the education of students. Next, try to consider the story from the viewpoint of a reporter. Then, practice short answers that reinforce your main messages.
Experience is the best teacher.
Consult with experts at your institution's public information office or with colleagues who have had successful experiences with the media. As colleges and universities have become more diverse, some student newspaper editors have been slow to include diverse voices and perspectives in their coverage. As a result, student newspapers occasionally become sources of tension. In some recent incidents, students have stolen, burned, and defaced student newspapers to protest the tone of the coverage or a lack of coverage of diversity issues. In recent years, more student newspaper editors have worked to raise awareness of the many kinds of diversity on campus and to reflect the perspectives of diverse student bodies.