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1. Force yourself to listen to it. We know it's tough, but someone's got to do it.
2. Document it. Sometimes only a talkshow host's loyal following hears the most outrageous thing that he says. You need to be able to document exactly what was said (and when it was said). Record the show, and be sure to label and date your tapes.
3. Keep track of the worst statements. Transcribe the most offensive comments [if possible]. Transcripts are easier and cheaper to distribute than audio tapes. Having a one-page list of quotes educates people and motivates them to action quickly. A "worst of" tape can also be very valuable.
4. Inform others who will take action. If you have a group of people interested, setting up an email list, or a quick response phone or fax tree, is a good idea.
5. Call in to the show. Call the on-air line during the show and try to challenge the racism, sexism or homophobia calmly and directly. It often doesn't take much to demonstrate the absurdity of bigoted arguments. If several people call in, it can change the entire show.
6. Write letters to station managers or owners. If the host doesn't respond to criticism, those who run the station need to know how offensive the program is. If you are part of a group or coalition, you might want to request a meeting as well.
7. Notify other outlets. Newspapers, non-commercial radio stations or other media might be interested in stories about talk radio. Send a press release including a few of the worst quotes and the dates they aired. Be prepared to offer a tape for documentation.
8. Build a coalition. Contact organizations that have a particular interest in challenging hate speech—like civil rights, religious, feminist and gay rights groups—and have organizational resources devoted to the issue.
9. Organize a demonstration. If you have an active coalition, a demonstration can draw attention to the problem and put pressure on the station at the same time. Large signs or placards and a one-page flyer with some of the worst on-air statements by the host and your coalition's demands will educate passersby.
10. Keep the pressure on. Even if the station doesn't balance the hate-jock, or allow an on-air discussion of hate speech, just publicizing bigoted statements changes the terms of debate. Hate flourishes when other views are not heard. By challenging it as often as possible, you diminish the ignorance that is necessary to racism, sexism and homophobia.
For more information, read FAIR's Bob Grant Success (Extra!Update, 6/96).
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