The AAA Press Office offers resources to help members promote their work and share anthropological knowledge with public audiences. For media relations assistance, please contact Damon Dozier at ddozier@aaanet.org, or call 703-528-1902 ext. 1163.

Media Relations Guide

The AAA has prepared a comprehensive guide titled, "Anthropology & Media: A (Nearly) Pain-Free Guide to Working with the Press." The guide is available here.

The following the six tipsheets included in the guide: 

• Is it News?- Includes a series of questions to help you determine whether your item is newsworthy and promotable.
• Making Contact- Tips on identifying press to promote your news to.
• Writing Press Releases- Guidelines for crafting a professional press release.
• Press Release Starter - A template of standard elements to help get you started on pulling your release together, plus a sample press release.
• Interviewing - Pointers on handling interviews, including those for TV and radio; how to handle "off the record" situations; how to decline to comment; and post-interview tips.
• Editorial Options- Explains opinion and commentary opportunities worth exploring.

Additional Resources

The following is a list of Web-based content - created by AAA and others - that offers further advice and insights about the media:

• AAA Members in the News - A listing of articles, TV/radio appearances, and op-ed articles that feature AAA members. For members, MIN can offer insight into the areas of anthropology that are getting news buzz. 
• Texas A&M Anthropology in the News - This university Web site offers an up-to-date listing of anthropology-related newspaper stories.
• Center for Anthropology and Science Communications- Get ideas from this center on how to present information to the press.
• Society for Professional Journalists and Poynter Institute - These organizations offer guidance and training to professional journalists and others interested in journalism. They can be helpful in exploring journalism ethics and practices.