THESE TIPS will help you engage effectively and know when it’s time to step away.
Be polite… to a point
- If someone is bullying, report them. You don’t have to accept harassment.
- If someone says something offensive, especially comparing vaccines to tragedies like the Holocaust, it’s okay to clearly and calmly say that it’s harmful and unacceptable.
Use “we,” not “I” or “you”
Saying “we” helps make conversations feel more inclusive. It also keeps the tone open and respectful.
We don’t have to agree, but we can agree to keep things respectful. We all want what’s best for our kids.”
Don’t escalate, and don’t take the bait
If someone gets heated, don’t sink to their level. You can call out bad behavior kindly and then step away.
Know when enough is enough
If you’ve gone back and forth several times and things aren’t moving forward, it’s okay to walk away. Sometimes continuing the debate only spreads more misinformation.
Let people know you’re stepping away
If you just disappear from the conversation, it might look like you had no response. It helps to end with a short, respectful message:
I don’t think this conversation is going anywhere helpful, so I’m stepping away. If you ever want good, science-based info, I’d be happy to help.”
Report misinformation
Social media platforms all have ways to report harmful or misleading content. Taking a moment to do this can help slow the spread of false info.
Look for three dots in the corner of a post or tweet, then choose “Report.”
Helpful Links:
And finally… it’s okay to step away
If you’ve tried, but the person just isn’t ready to hear it, that’s not a failure on your part.
Try saying:
I’m sorry you’re not in a place to consider the facts right now. If that changes and you’re looking for reliable info later, I’m here.”
LET'S DO THIS TOGETHER...
for our kids, for our communities, and for a healthier future for all. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been an advocate for a while, thank you for being here. Your voice matters.
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