Quick Start for Program Advocacy
Don’t know where to begin your campaign to support and save your French program?
Here are some starting points.
First, the basics. What do I need to do to get started? The checklists compiled here can help you organize your campaign. There’s a checklist for K-12 teachers. And there’s a separate checklist for university-level programs, since their processes can be quite different from those in K-12 programs.
Second, a list of 15 arguments that help you organize what you and your supporters want to say. The list spells out reasons why French programs are worth saving and includes quotes from real (successful!) letters sent to decision-makers.
Third, more “talking points” you can include in your own arguments: facts, figures, and information about the importance and relevance of the French language today. Like the “15 Arguments” document above, it has a bibliography that may be useful for your own further research.
Why Study French? Talking Points
Fourth, if you want to read an in-depth exploration of rationales for retaining and strengthening French programs, check out Margot Steinhart’s essay “French in Fashion.”
Fifth, take a look at the videos in “Video Stories: The World Speaks French.” These short video segments of allies and supporters of French programs range from a major corporation’s CEO to other professionals to parents and students (and more!). They may give you additional arguments to use. And they may inspire you to ask your own supporters for helpful statements (see below for “testimonials”!)
Youtube link for Video Stories
Sixth, a set of questions to use as you solicit testimonials from students, parents, or others. It’s a great idea to have the words of allies to speak on behalf of your program, and this can help you prompt their responses.
Finally, here are links to other sites and pages you might want to check out: