Influencing Politics / Power & Politics
Overview
Note: Content was shared via WhatsApp chat, now also in email format (with AI formatting assistance)
This week explored how to influence political systems and understand the dynamics of power in politics. We discussed strategies for engaging with decision makers and navigating political processes to create change.
✅ Action Items
Week 6 Feedback
Quick feedback really helps us refine the program and keep improving.
Complete Feedback📚 Resources from Week 6 (Optional Extras)
Investigation/Documentary
📰 Greenpeace / Michael West investigation into fossil fuel ties with major parties (2019)
Good example of how to trace influence behind the scenes
📺 Video
Podcasts
- 🎧 Inside Politics – Changemaker Chat with John Robertson (Via the Commons Library)
- 🎧 RECOMMENDATION! Changemakers Podcast - Available on all major platforms
- 🎧 Extra: 100 Climate Conversations - Great interviews with a wide range of innovators and leaders
https://www.100climateconversations.com
📁 Session Materials
Access all materials on the shared Google Drive:
- Week 6 slides
Week 7 Preview
Venue: 55 Exchange Place
Time: 5-5:30pm arrival for food, 5:45pm sharp start
Topic: Influencing Public Opinion (Media & Messaging)
Presenters: Guest speakers from journalism and education sectors
What We'll Explore
- How mainstream and social media shape narratives and public opinion
- How changemakers can engage media strategically to amplify their message
- Some of the ins and outs of how media works
Key Concept: The Overton Window
Understanding how public attitudes shift over time and how you can help expand what's "politically possible."
Pre-Reading/Watching for Week 7
Requested Watching
Optional Reading
Lobbying & Advocacy
Narrative Change
Story-Based Strategy
Overton Window Overviews
Session Format
We'll start with prepared questions for our guest presenters, then open it up for discussion.
Bring your curiosity!