About this session

The landscape is shifting. Extreme opposition to our work is no longer fringe: it is organized, more visible, and more strategic. Attacks on global agencies and major funders are threatening prevention work across the field, and effective messaging has never been more critical. Our response must be clear, strategic, and grounded in hope. How we talk about our work right now can make all the difference.

This session helps you craft affirmative, prevention-centered messages that counter opposition and inspire action, and gives you a clearer picture of the discourse shaping our field.

What we cover

Countering opposition starts with strategy. In this session, we explore where to begin:

1️⃣ Know your opposition — Who are they? What do they care about? What do they say about you?

2️⃣ Set realistic objectives — What's actually feasible right now? Can you neutralize your opposition, minimize their impact, or find common ground?

3️⃣ Make a plan — Identify who you need to convince, what actions will move them, and when you have the greatest opportunity to act.

Once you have your strategy, it is time to craft your messaging. Use the opposition message box like a tennis court: if the conversation is happening in their boxes, you are not in control. Don't play their game. Pull the conversation back to your side.

Explore the Countering Opposition Worksheet to map your strategy and draft your messaging.

Want more sessions like this one?

This webinar is part of To Zero's Learning Lab series, developed to strengthen the communications infrastructure of the field working to end childhood sexual violence.