George Lakoff June 17, 2005

Howard Dean calls Dr. Lakoff ?one of the most influential thinkers of the progressive movement.? His latest book Don?t Think of An Elephant has opened the eyes of progressive groups and individuals across the country. Lakoff seeks to transform the political debate, revitalizing progressive discourse by reframing progressive policies in ways that speak to shared American values. Conservatives have already realized that individual issues need to be linked to an overall moral and ethical perspective. They have seen how issues fit together and they have created a language of conservatism that reflects their values. In the process, they have appropriated fundamental American virtues, such as freedom and compassion, and have given them conservative definitions. They have trained their advocates, policymakers, and media spokespersons in the use of this language to move public discourse in a conservative direction. They have successfully reframed issue after issue to make their language the everyday language of much of America. Lakoff?s American Voices appearance will be one step toward reframing the political debate, reclaiming progressive values, and exploring the shared values among very different progressive organizations.

Dr. Lakoff has appeared on television and radio programs, such as Now and All Things Considered. He recently briefed over 100 members of Congress on strategic framing of political issues. Labor unions, environmental groups, reproductive rights groups, peace groups, religious organizations, social equity groups, human rights groups and many other progressive organizations are clamoring for access to Dr. Lakoff and his work.