Thread by @TorontoStar

Unvaccinated family members or friends? Here's an experts' guide on how you can build COVID-19 vaccine confidence with empathy in hopes to avoid another pandemic wave.

From educators @TheAmirImani and @SabiVM #InTheirOwnVoices
thestar.com/opinion/contri…

Research on the previously vaccine hesitant also shows that more people were convinced by a family or close friend (22%) than a health care provider (10%).

"While they’re unlikely to be persuaded by us experts, they might listen to you."
thestar.com/opinion/contri…

Step 1) Arm yourself with good information.

Credible resources can be surprisingly hard to find. Official government info pages are a good place to start, they write.

Find more resources in the story here:
thestar.com/opinion/contri…

Step 2) Approach with empathy

You’re not there to be right or “win,” you’re there to try to convince them.
thestar.com/opinion/contri…

3) Ask questions more than anything else

There's a new conspiracy around vaccines every week. Lead the discussion with questions. Let them share what they’ve heard and why it worries them.
thestar.com/opinion/contri…

4) Give them an out

Falling victim to anti-vaccine rhetoric is not necessarily a measure of intelligence, and we’re not here to “win” the argument. Give the person the means to come out of the conversation with minimal embarrassment. thestar.com/opinion/contri…

In order to prevent another devastating wave, stave off lockdowns, allow more family get-togethers and to send our children to school, multiple strategies will be needed. One involves your help.

#InTheirOwnVoices @TheAmirImani and @SabiVM provide a guide:
thestar.com/opinion/contri…