Public Opinion Monthly: Tracking Attitudes Toward Opportunity
Public Opinion Monthly was created with the mission of serving as an information hub of public opinion and media research across issues for the media, the public, and the U.S. human rights and social justice field. It is intended to help interested parties build understanding and support for human rights at home and social justice issues through better insight into what the public thinks about these issues. The hub is open to allies to get and give research information, and share their concerns with peer hubbers.
Understanding public opinion is the first step in successful advocacy: listening, deeply and fully, to the voices of those that you hope to influence. Responsible research yields insights that form the foundation of concise and targeted campaigns that can effectively move hearts, minds and policy to greater opportunity for all.
In-depth media research is also critical to effective advocacy efforts given the media's essential role in shaping public opinion. Through newspaper, radio, television, and internet coverage of current events, the public not only receives information, but also narratives. Every piece tells a story, and the information that is emphasized or omitted has a powerful effect in shaping perceptions and attitudes. Successful advocates understand that these narratives form the framework of public opinion, and they position their messages to either combat or reinforce them.
Public Opinion Monthly rounds up each month's polling and media research with an eye toward translating information to effective advocacy and communications. The information is drawn by public polling organizations, media outlets, academic or research institutes, advocacy groups, and The Opportunity Agenda's own studies.
Public Opinion Monthly is part of The Opportunity Agenda’s broader initiative to keep the field updated on U.S. human rights and related social justice developments in Washington, DC, and around the country. The initiative is generously supported by The Libra Foundation.
