Bridging Divides: Adapt or Stand Firm?

Welcome back, dear colleague!

In health advocacy, it can be challenging to understand the narratives and change them. Often, this leads to a dilemma: should we change our language to appeal to different audiences, or should we stick to our convictions regardless of how they are received?

Recently, we came across an interesting conversation between Andrea Baccarelli, Dean of the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, and Nir Menachemi, Dean of the Fairbanks School of Public Health at Indiana University, on how to frame public health messages so they have a greater impact, how to build bipartisan support for public health advocacy, and how to develop effective leadership.

Public health experts tend to believe that explaining things enough, presenting more data, or finding the perfect argument will change minds. What if the real issue isn't the information, but the relationship we have with people and communities?

There is no way to establish trust in a single conversation. Without trust, facts alone won't move people. Advocacy is not a one-time activity, and sometimes we won't succeed the first time. Instead, we should focus on building long-term relationships and trust within communities. By doing so, we can create a more receptive environment for public health messages and increase the likelihood of successful advocacy efforts over time.

Language can be a trigger. Certain words activate political reflexes, shutting down conversations before they begin. This has led many in public health advocacy to believe that success depends on "speaking their language"—framing issues in ways that align with different values, especially across political divides. Dr. Nir Menachemi’s approach in Indiana embraced this logic, successfully presenting public health investments as an economic and business-friendly decision, leading to a 1,500% funding increase in a deeply conservative state.

But what are we losing when we soften our language to gain political traction? Does sidestepping certain words help build bridges, or does it sweep fundamental truths under the rug? If we constantly adapt to avoid pushback, are we shaping the conversation—or letting it be shaped for us?

Two Sides of the Debate

1. Adapt the Message to Gain Support

• Public health is about improving lives—if shifting our language brings in more allies and resources, why not use it?

• Speaking in terms that resonate with policymakers and stakeholders increases the chances of passing essential reforms.

• A combative or rigid tone can alienate potential partners, while a forward-looking, solutions-based approach fosters collaboration.

2. Stay True to the Message—No Matter the Audience

• Reframing public health issues to fit a different narrative can dilute their urgency and lead to compromises that weaken long-term impact.

• Softening the message may mean avoiding uncomfortable but critical truths—like structural racism or deep disparities in health outcomes.

• Real progress isn’t always about winning over skeptics; sometimes, it’s about mobilizing those already inclined to act.

So, where do we draw the line between strategic framing and sacrificing what matters most?

We’d love to hear your thoughts, so here is a poll:

Check out the entire conversation here!

Coming Soon: The Courageous Clinicians Community!

We’re proud to share that the Courageous Clinicians Community will officially launch on March 10th! 🎉

This is more than just a community, it’s a space where clinicians and public health professionals come together to learn, grow, and lead change on issues like climate health, mental well-being, immunization, health equity, and more.

Why Join?

💡 Build deep connections with peers through action-focused learning teams.

📚 Gain real-world advocacy skills with practical courses & workshops.

🗣️ Engage in meaningful discussions on the toughest healthcare challenges.

🎙️ Join live events with inspiring changemakers in healthcare.

🤝 Get 1:1 coaching from experienced mentors & the People Power Health team.

💬 Who is this for?

✔️ Clinicians & public health professionals ready to take action.

✔️ Changemakers passionate about transforming healthcare.

✔️ Lifelong learners eager to lead and grow together.

This is your chance to be part of something bigger. The Courageous Clinicians Community isn’t just about discussion, it’s about action and turning advocacy into impact.

📅 Doors open March 10th, so be the first to secure your place here!

Until next time,

People Power Health Team