Speak Up for Decency

 

At A Store

  • Be ready to speak up at any business you frequent.
  • Speak with the Manager

If you see an indecent display, speak with the manager but realize very few store managers have the power to change company policy.  Your reason in speaking to the manger is let them know of your concern and have them share with contact information of those in charge.

Do not be shrill, angry or threatening as you communicate concerns.  Business managers will respond better to civil requests which leaves the door open for further dialogue.  If you feel too much anger, come back and attempt it another day.

  • Create a Relationship

Recognize who you are dealing with.  Grocery stores are very competitive and they deal with families so you will find managers more willing and helpful.  Video stores deal with lots of different customers and are willing to stand their ground because they make money with illicit materials.   Creating a relationship based on mutal respect is the goal.  If they sense you want their business to succeed they are more interested in working with you.  Threatening to take your business elsewhere should only be a last resort. 

  • Gather support

Gather a group of local neighbors and friends and share contact information and common goals so when an incident arises you have back- up.  A vocal minority becomes the majority.

  • Don't give up  

Effective advocates have been known to spend 2-3 years working with businesses to create better rapport. 

 

In Your Library

  • Visit your local library to find out if they are complying with Utah law requiring them to have an Internet policy. 
  • Complete the library survey form to accurately access their policy and practice.
  • Scan the completed form and email it to your Women for Decency district leader or info@womenfordecency.org.

 

Billboards

  • Call and write the owner of the sign company displaying the ad and voice your opinion. 
  • Call and write the business being advertised and voice your opinion.
  • Cc the city who has ordinances and the district attorney's office then call them to find out if they received your statements. 
  • Consider forming a citizen's committee to request a highway beautification project that would eliminate signage altogther. Those who violate the law would think twice if their signage equipment came down permanently.

 

Request Businesses to Become Family Friendly 

Help rid your community of indecent displays at retail media outlets.  To create family-friendly retail outlets, and displays the following ideas may provide help:

Voice your concerns with phone calls and letters, seeking to alter store policies. Letters are a valuable tool because companies often keep written correspondence for reference. Citizens can S.P.E.A.K. up for decency by writing letters that include an introduction with a Sincere compliment, a statement of the Problem,  Education on the issue, requested Action, and Kudos for their time in considering your request. Here is an example of one such letter:


Dear Video Store Manager,
My name is Joe and I rent videos at Movies Tonight because I enjoy the large selection your store offers customers. I often bring my four children (ages five to thirteen) to rent movies at the Cambridge store located on 5th Avenue. (Sincere compliment)
I am concerned about the number of Playboy videos placed in the new release section at the eye level of children. The suggestive and soft pornography covers on the Playboy videos are highly offensive to myself and my family. (State the problem)
Because you do business in our city, I am sure you care about our children, youth and families. Videos like "Hollywood Sex Lives" promote the degradation and abuse of women. As a responsible owner, I am sure you will agree soft-core pornography fails to show the negative consequences such as AIDS, rape, relationships without commitment, and unrealistic sexual expectations. (Education)
For the safety of women, children, and families, I am requesting that Movies Tonight discontinue the rental of all Playboy-type movies. I look forward to your response and will call back on February first to discuss this issue with management. (Action)
Thank you for your time and consideration in reviewing my request. (Kudos)
Sincerely,
Joe Q. Public


What One Person Can do About Pornography

Download the free American Family Association resource with information on laws, understanding first amendment rights and more.