The Politics Online Conference is a gathering of some of the most forward-looking thinkers who work in political and advocacy communications.  And with technology moving so quickly and broadband increasing the range of participation tools, it’s important to take a moment, or in this case a panel session, to reflect on how communicators can ensure the inclusion of multicultural communities.

After noting that over 75% of Americans are regular Internet users and that we’re expected to hit over 100% mobile penetration in U.S. by the end of 2012,  a representation of different races and ethnicities, the following panelists shared their insights on best practices for reaching and engaging minority communities online in the panel that I moderated:

• Matt Reyes (Voto Latino and Founder of Twitteros.net)
• Bill Meierling (Multicultural Outreach, Edelman)
• Dalia Mogahed (Gallup Center for Muslim Studies)
• Navarrow Wright (Maximum Leverage Solutions)

When I asked what strategies are most effective for communicating with their respective communities, I received a diverse and valuable range of advice.  Here are a few of the tips:

• It’s not necessary to translate communications into other languages.  The information can still reach the vast majority of “acculturated” and “unacculturated” people.
• It is necessary to be aware of cultural nuances (but don’t tailor your communications too much).
• Trends of technology usage tend to be more generational, rather than based on ethnicity.  Encourage (and teach) digital literacy in order to increase participation.
• The substance of your message and credibility of your organization are as important as the medium.
• Low-fi technologies still work, so don’t forget email and SMS.

Panelists ultimately agreed that the Internet, social media and other new technology tools bring with them unprecedented opportunity.  And now, thanks to the exceptional advice of these panelists, communicators are empowered with the knowledge and awareness necessary to maximize diversity!

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