A New Way to Message for Democrats
Wear your politics proudly!
by Susan Morgan
As a communications professional turned grassroots organizer, I have paid close attention to Democratic strategists Dan Pfeiffer, Simon Rosenberg, Anat Shenker Osario, and others. All speak of the importance of individuals spreading pro-Democrat messaging. The need is underscored in this crucial election cycle where the mainstream news media has practiced both-siderism in lieu of fact-based reporting and abdicated its duty to defend American democracy.
But HOW do we become what Rosenberg calls “information warriors?” Social media is an option, but increasingly the algorithms of the mainstream platforms like Facebook and Instagram are deprioritizing political posts. Plus, as grassroots organizers and volunteers, we all know that face-to-face interactions are widely considered the most impactful way to influence voters.
The idea of using a T-shirt for citizen-led messaging was born in late 2023 as I chatted with some Indivisible Marin volunteers. They had just returned from a day of canvassing in CA-13 in California’s Central Valley. In 2022, Democrats lost that highly flippable House district by just 564 votes. Indivisble volunteers told me that many neighborhoods they canvassed had hi-tech Ring doorbells, forcing them to talk to residents only through the Ring camera. “Wouldn’t it be great,” we all reflected, “if what the residents saw as they looked to see who was at the door was a clear and positive message about Democrats?”
In the ensuing months, this initial idea was developed further. Input came from a range of experts and grassroots leaders. Soon a pilot T-shirt project was launched. The message was clear: Dems Make Life Better!
Feedback from around the country was immediately enthusiastic:
“These T-shirts are ingenious.”
“The best message and delivery system for Democrats I've seen.”
“Can't wait to wear mine around town. Should lead to some interesting public discussions."
"Loud and Proud - If the journos won't do the job, we will!"
“I canvass. It helps save time for me to see people's reactions quickly.”
Political influencers also reacted positively. Jessica Craven, Substack author of “Chop Wood, Carry Water,” says, “Messaging is so important—once people realize what Democrats’ positions are they're with us! These shirts communicate those positions in a succinct, truthful, and clear way. Brilliant!” And Robert Hubbell, author of “Today’s Edition” says, “The number one request (read: complaint) I hear from readers is that Democrats must do a better job of messaging. Well, here it is: ‘Dems Make Life Better.’”
The pilot project led to a new website — www.demsmakelifebetter.org — with a broad range of merchandise designed for us all to become walking, talking billboards for Democrats. The merch includes unisex, fitted, and toddler tees in English, unisex and fitted tees in Spanish, embroidered caps, lawn signs, buttons and even a dog bandana. All items are made in the USA and union printed.
Key goals of the Dems Make Life Better campaign are to spark conversations, raise awareness, and inspire others to learn more about the positive impact of electing Democrats. Perhaps a fellow shopper will compliment your shirt and express a shared perspective. Conversely, someone may express a different viewpoint. BOTH scenarios are great opportunities to engage. To help you do so, the DMLB site features materials to foster engaging conversations:
Each order will ship with ten business card-sized handouts with the URL website for further information.
A “Meaningful Conversations” guide provides tips on engaging in constructive conversations, emphasizing the importance of open dialogue and active listening to foster understanding and connection.
A “How Dems Make Life Better” summary includes concrete examples of how Democratic policies and initiatives enhance the lives of all Americans.
For more information and to visit the Dems Make Life Better online store, visit https://www.demsmakelifebetter.org/. Let’s all spread the word and get out the vote in the most visible way possible - by wearing Dems Make Life Better apparel with pride!
I was in Modesto canvassing in my Dem Make Life Better t-shirt. After canvassing, I went to dinner with friends, still in my t-shirt. One man kept looking at me and smiling, and later the woman he was with came over and said how much she agreed with me. I received one glare as I was leaving, but that was not a problem for me. As Kathy said, wearing these t-shirts in red or purple areas is really good, because it shows we are proud of being Democrats and not afraid to show our support.
Awesome to see a smiling pic of our “friend” Shawn wearing his t. He convinced me months ago and I’ve been wearing a t since February .Not a single, negative response in my MAGA Florida county! PLEASE join us, especially if you live in a RED area. As Simon Rosenberg says….We need to be loud and proud !!
👕🛒🪧