Tabling 101
Tabling is a great way to raise awareness of Amnesty International, its campaigns and your group! If done right, tabling can be a way to promote awareness of human rights, take action on a specific campaign or issue, recruit new members and even fundraise!
What is tabling?
"To table" (the word table in verb form) is to set up an actual table covered with information and eye-catching displays, staffed by knowledgeable and eager young activists (that's you), to educate and involve people in their campaigns.
Tabling works best if you:
- Aren't afraid to step out in front of the table or initiate passers-by in conversation. Be outgoing - some people might be too shy to approach you!
- Set up the table in a high visibility area
- Have a minimum of two people at the table
- Set a finite amount of time that you will be at the table, and divide that time into shifts
- Are high energy and enthusiastic about what you are doing
- Are efficient (getting to the point quickly, yet thoroughly)
- Keep record of what you accomplish. How many signatures were gathered, or actions signed? You may wish to set a goal before you start and see if you can reach it!
Where to Set Up a Table:
- In a centrally located area on your campus, such as the main hallway, a common study area, a school cafeteria or library, faculty lunchrooms, parking lots/garages, etc.
- In your local community, such as at a local shopping mall, downtown area, community fairs, and grocery stores.
- At conferences and other events with large populations. Student activity nights, rallies or even school sporting events will provide you with a large audience.
- Mix it up once in a while! Be sure to set up your table in different spots to catch different groups of people. Some students might never visit the library - so catch them in the cafeteria next time!
Checklist: What to Have at the Table:
- The Table - This is very important! To table, you need a table. Be sure to be aware of the size of your table and the area around it. Is there a wall space behind the table to hang the banner?
- Banners - Whether paper or cloth: make them big, make them bold & challenging, make them colourful! Aim for simple clear messages that are positive and easily read from a distance. Make sure you have a clear plan for how to hang up your banner -- and a plan B should your run into problems (tip: duct tape can be very useful in a crisis!).
- Supplies - pens, tape, thick markers, extra paper. Be prepared!
- General information/campaign information - Have a good quantity of information available about Amnesty International and its campaigns. Be sure to have lots of copies of our new brochure on hand. You can also create your own simple one page flyers by down loading information from Amnesty's website: www.amnesty.ca.
- Information on your group - Create a handout with information on where and when your group meets and who can be contacted for more information. If you have some upcoming events or are looking for volunteers, be sure to add that information too!
- Action Opportunities - Have a simple action that people can do right away such as signing a petition or postcard. Have quotes and success stories on hand for anyone asking about Amnesty's effectiveness. The "Amnesty Works" display and booklet are an excellent resource for this.
- Donation Jar - You'd be surprised how quickly spare change can add up! Have a note on or near the jar explaining how donations will be used for your human rights campaigning.
- Conversation Space - Some people drop by a table for only a moment or two while others like to stick around for more information or to engage in a debate. Try to provide a space beside your table for extended discussions.
- Tabling Skills - Ensure that your volunteers feel comfortable answering questions about Amnesty International and your group's actions. Pair up newer members with older members or hold a special meeting to go over the basics of tabling.
- Radio, TV/VCR or Internet Hook-up - If you have the equipment and access, set up a computer with Amnesty's website so people can surf or a TV & VCR with Amnesty Public Service Announcements or videos. Play background music from musicians that have supported human rights work, such as Matthew Good, Sting or U2. For more information, you may wish to check out AIUSA's Music For Human Rights.
Portions of this sheet have been taken from the Physicians for Human Rights Student Activism Guide http://www.phrusa.org/students/campus_action.html#1
