Get your opinion heard
When you see something in the media that makes you angry write to someone about it. Don't seethe in silence - get your opinions heard!
Find out who is the editor of the newspaper, the producer of the programme, the the broadcaster, the company using the advertiser, the partners or financiers who are associated with that media item. Register your complaint with the decision makers and lean on the people with the power to make changes. Let them know what you think of the way they represent women. Criticise lazy stereotypes and challenge them to actively promote gender equality... before half their audience votes with their feet!
When you see something in the media that makes you angry write to someone about it. Don't seethe in silence - get your opinions heard!
Find out who is the editor of the newspaper, the producer of the programme, the the broadcaster, the company using the advertiser, the partners or financiers who are associated with that media item. Register your complaint with the decision makers and lean on the people with the power to make changes. Let them know what you think of the way they represent women. Criticise lazy stereotypes and challenge them to actively promote gender equality... before half their audience votes with their feet!
Letters to the Editor
If you are ever confronted with offensive or sexist representations of women in the media, write to the editor, broadcaster or producer. The Letters to the Editor (LTE) sections of newspapers, magazines, TV and radio programs can be effective platforms for influencing and informing public opinion, or a call out for governmental officials to act or respond on a certain issue.
LTEs are often, but not exclusively, in response to issues previous reported by the publication. They are an effective vehicle for lodging complaints if the publication has misrepresented an issue and for supporting or opposing an editorial position.
If you are ever confronted with offensive or sexist representations of women in the media, write to the editor, broadcaster or producer. The Letters to the Editor (LTE) sections of newspapers, magazines, TV and radio programs can be effective platforms for influencing and informing public opinion, or a call out for governmental officials to act or respond on a certain issue.
LTEs are often, but not exclusively, in response to issues previous reported by the publication. They are an effective vehicle for lodging complaints if the publication has misrepresented an issue and for supporting or opposing an editorial position.
- PublishaLetter.com is a useful resource for writing letters to the editor.
- Press Complaints Commission direct link to their online complaint form
Unsuitable Advertising
The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) is responsible for regulating advertisers and media owners, ensuring they adhere to a set of codes. These codes are "designed to ensure that advertising does not mislead, harm or offend. Advertising must also be socially responsible". Anyone can complain to the ASA via their online form.
Lobbying the Government
Letter writing may be viewed as a benign activity, but real change has be achieved through lobbying. It is a vital part of the democratic process in this country and has been used effectively to lobby for more equitable representations of women and girls in the media. For example you could lobby your MP to sign the Early Day Motion 151 on the media, advertising and eating disorders.
You can find more details of your local MP, their positions on gender some equality issues and how to contact them here. Remember, your MP is your politcal representative, make sure they know where you stand.