Contents

Tips on making your views on US-India relations heard throughout the United States.

Giving India a Voice in the US

Taking Action to the Airwaves

Talk radio is the town meeting of our time. It is potentially the most democratic and interactive medium we have.
- Mark Sommer, Journalist, Director
Mainstream Media Project

Talk radio as a news or research source is not as factual or informative as print media, but there is no better way for you to support particular policies, refute common fallacies, advance overall ideas, or educate and inspire citizens to take action in support of India. Research has shown that the listening audience for this medium is "remarkably non-ideological," and tunes in just to hear a diversity of opinion. Those who typically call in are ten times more likely to claim an ideological identity. It is for this reason that your voices and ideas are of such critical importance.

Many interest groups have long recognized radio as a powerful method of reaching Americans, and have developed targeted, strategic efforts to market their messages within this medium. Those of us seeking to promote US-India relations should also do so.

Tips for Calling In

1. Study the Subject

Knowing the ownership and format of the stations you listen to helps you target your actions to them for maximum effectiveness. Michael Harrison, editor and president of Talkers, the leading industry publication on the topic states: "Know your show, know your host, and know your station. Not understanding where the listeners are coming from could actually hurt your cause."

We suggest targeting shows that are essentially balanced forums with a diverse audience. For these, base your arguments on simple and fundamental principles -- democracy, freedom of religion and the law.

2. Target the Show

Know what time and day the program is on. Follow the announcements of upcoming programs and the topics they will be discussing. The show topic does not have to be centered on India in order for you to call in and make a reference or draw a parallel.

3. Define Your Goal

You probably will only be given two minutes or so for your call. It will be much more effective if you concentrate on your goal the entire time you are on the phone. Jot down a quick "cheat sheet" with your most important comment at the top to remind you. Frame your points in the context of the show's topic.

Craft your message in populist terms, keeping in mind compassion, common sense and understanding.

4. Pick Up the Phone

When you pick up the phone, be prepared for some delays. For nationally syndicated shows, be prepared to be kept on hold or to get a busy signal numerous times. You may want to begin calling 10-15 minutes prior to airtime in order to get through. Whatever happens, don't give up.

When you do get through, you may be questioned about what you are going to say. Offer your main point and identify yourself as being concerned about the topic of that day's show.