In the last month, Rosemary Ravinal has spoken at public hearings and civic action rallies before hundreds of people. In preparation, the public speaking coach and veteran public relations pro realized that there are significant differences in the structure of remarks delivered in these settings. This column summarizes lessons learned and what experienced speakers and novices alike need to consider.
By Rosemary Ravinal
In a democracy, the right to speak up is fundamental. Whether in a local town hall meeting, a school board discussion, a public forum, a political rally, or a peaceful protest for or against government action, the freedom to raise your voice shapes the course of society. Engaging in civic discourse is crucial to maintaining healthy and vibrant communities. But it’s important to know what to say and how to say it.
A protest speech is a time-proven tool for rallying people around a cause, often characterized by urgency, passion, and a call to action. It’s distinct from other types of speeches in its tone, structure, and purpose.
What do you do if your goal is to win a budget approval at your company, or convince the powers that be expansion or spending crucial dollars now will bring long-term dividends down the road?
Here are five things to consider when crafting your speech:
1. Identify one clear message.
The core of speaking for a cause is the message. What are you fighting for? Whether it’s social justice, environmental protection, or policy change, your speech should center around one clear and urgent cause.
2. Start with a hook.
Capture attention immediately. This could be a poignant quote, a shocking statistic, or an emotional story. The opening needs to grab the crowd and set the tone.
3. Establish common ground.
Address shared values or experiences of the audience. Rallying people means connecting with them on a personal or emotional level. Use “we” more than “I” to build a sense of unity.
4. Use strong, emotive language.
Cause-related speeches are passionate. You’re calling for change, so your language should reflect that. Use vivid, forceful, and direct language to convey urgency. Make your sentences short and punchy.
5. Incorporate personal stories.
Stories humanize the issue and make it relatable. This also makes the speech more memorable and emotionally resonant.
Democracies thrive on participation. The very essence of change lies in your ability to express your opinions effectively, push for reforms, and demand accountability. From small, community-driven forums to nationwide movements, the importance of using your voice cannot be overstated.
Here the intention is to inspire change, challenge authority and mobilize action. The tone of activist speech is usually emotional, urgent, and provocative. The language is often bold and direct, focusing on justice, outrage, and a sense of collective empowerment. Audience engagement is crucial. For speeches delivered in places with varying sound quality, you want to keep your remarks shorter.
Business leaders and entrepreneurs who want to elevate their public speaking impact, executive presence, and media interview skills come to Rosemary Ravinal for personalized attention and measurable results. Services are available for individuals, teams, in-person and online, and in English and Spanish in South Florida and elsewhere. For more information please click here.
