An Introduction to Public Narrative

If you are in public life, you must learn to tell your own story. If you don’t, others will, and you’ll turn over authorship of your story to others whose interests may differ from your own.

—Marshall Ganz

The ability to have an honest conversation is a tremendous public resource. But today’s war-like approach to public disagreement has polluted the commons and compromised our capacity to disagree constructively.

We know from cognitive psychology that people process information through narrative – stories – that add deeper meaning to facts and information. Weak storytelling skills and misplaced confidence in the persuasive power of facts not only leave the public unmoved, but they can also trigger antagonism and contribute to polarization and ineffective advocacy. Strong public narrative skills can, however, not only deliver an inspiring message for change but also counteract misinformation and polarization.

What can I expect ?

This workshop explores how community leaders can use public narrative to improve their communication skills and cut through today’s toxic public discourse. Through hands on exercises and breakouts it offers participants an opportunity to develop their own public narrative.

Who should attend this Workshop?

The workshop is for Planners, Development Officers, Municipal Officials and others- with responsibilities in areas of public communication such as presentations, media relations and community outreach.