Public Statement to the Media – A Lesson from Doreen Lawrence

The impact and lessons to be learned from the tragic story of the Stephen Lawrence case are numerous and complex. The guilty verdicts given to two of his murderers sends many messages to criminals, victims, police authorities, families, politicians and the general public.

Following momentous events like this, those directly involved or affected are often called on to make public statements to the media that will then subsequently be shown and reported on across the media.

What are the points to make in such a speech?

Take a lesson from Doreen Lawrence OBE, mother of Stephen Lawrence, a lady of whom it can undoubtedly be said has had greatness thrust upon her. Having met and talked with her personally, it is her determination allied with great humility that is most impressive.

Her statement outside the steps of the High Court is not very well delivered (she falters a few times, loses her place, struggles with her words), but the content is an object lesson in how to capture the right tone for such a public statement.

Opening: Thanks and acknowledgments

Theme – this is not a cause for celebration: Whilst many responses to these verdicts will understandably be focusing on the impact of the verdicts (indeed Stephen’s father Neville did talk of his joy), Doreen keeps a strong sense of perspective with this theme, which she repeats a few times through her speech. Unsurprisingly, it is this message that has dominated the airwaves.

Tone: Dignity – it is noticeable that she does not descend into vitriol or triumphalism, but maintains a steady and focused demeanour. This gives a sense of gravitas and authority to her words.

Timing: 3.5 mins – keep it short. The impact of a speech is inversely proportional to its length. The longer the speech, the less its impact. Think of some of the greatest speeches ever given, and you will notice how short almost all of them are.

Messages: Despite speaking for only a few minutes, she is able to pack the speech with several messages: her relief at the verdict, anger at the police incompetence, the continued prevalence of racism today

Conclusion: She closes with a poignant reflection that she invites us to share. She asks us to think of her son, not as a murder victim, but as ‘bright, beautiful young man, who any parent of whatever background would have been proud of‘. This is powerful because it is the only point at which she calls on the audience to use other senses (asking us to visualise Stephen himself). Referring to ‘parent of whatever background’ is a simple but unifying message as it draws on the universal truth that all parents love their children, and means that all parents of all races will feel included in her message. It is a call for unity.

Closing: She closes with a personal statement from a mother ‘I miss him with a passion and hopefully now he can rest in peace‘. This brings us to the final message of the speech, which emphasises her humility ie just a mother grieving for a son she loved.

Much to learn from and admire in this speech. Most of all though I hope Stephen Lawrence’s family can accept this moment as a singular peace of positive news in their continued struggle to secure justice for their son.