EFFECTIVELY COMMUNICATE CULTURALLY COMPONENT INFORMATION TO KEY STAKEHOLDERS

Communicating about injuries and violence – including data, prevention activities, and actions for decision makers and the public – can be challenging. However, it is crucial that IVP programs can share injury and violence information in a manner that is linguistically and culturally appropriate for their audience. Whether communications are directed to policymakers, partners, or the public, it is important to ensure that they are understandable and easily accessible to all key audiences.

Information shared with community members and other stakeholders should not reinforce ongoing oppression or perpetuate health inequities. IVP programs should be sure to avoid language and images that could reinforce stereotypes and damaging narratives of the populations of focus. The program should also focus on the root causes of injuries and violence, highlighting solutions rather than criticizing an individual or population's actions.

Equitable communication requires improving the community’s access to information. The use of terminology that is culturally appropriate and understandable to the community is essential. In addition, IVP programs should consider the communication channels used to disseminate information. Public health messaging can be televised, aired on the radio, included in newspapers, and shared at schools, hospitals, and grocery stores; the more that public partners can expand the placement of information, accessibility amongst community partners will increase. Factors such as population literacy, language barriers/proficiency, and unreliable internet access, should be considered as IVP programs determine the best way to get information to the public in a timely manner.

If you are experiencing challenges or could use additional guidance regarding translation, or communicating with marginalized populations, your program's public information officer or an external consultant can be an excellent resource for additional communication expertise. Additionally, all staff should regularly attend DEI and health equity communications trainings to increase their individual capacity in this area.

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