Wednesday, January 14
(virtual)
Crisis Communications in a Trumped-Up Digital Age
Next up in our DA Italy Speakers Series -
We are proud to present Zach Forbes, Deputy Digital Director for the Office of the Mayor and City of Chicago, in conversation with Jane Zaloga, as they discuss Chicago’s political confrontations with the Trump administration:
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Federal Overreach: President Trump used unconstitutional federal power against American cities, including Chicago
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Coordinated Intimidation: From National Guard deployments to “Operation Midway Blitz” to federal funding cuts, the Trump administration and the alt-right coordinated social media and press tactics to overwhelm and intimidate those who disagree
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Rapid Response: Mayor Brandon Johnson, alongside Governor JB Pritzker, community organizers, and business leaders established the Protecting Chicago initiative to support rapid responders and defend Chicagoans of all backgrounds
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Digital Strategies: The Mayor’s Press Office used an arsenal of digital tools to combat an onslaught of misinformation – including broadcasting a unifying message against authoritarianism – catalyzing a massive 1,100% growth on their social media platforms from 34k to 420k+ in six months
By listening to Mr. Forbes’ real-world experiences -- under the most intimidating circumstances from the Trump administration -- we’ll learn what it takes to communicate more effectively, and to strategize, defend, and support our democratic principles.
Click below to RSVP and receive the Zoom link.
WHEN
Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at 07:00 PM Rome Time
WHERE
This is a virtual event. See the event description above or RSVP for virtual participation options.
CONTACT
Kelly Feenan
[email protected]