Reframing the American Dream
Format: Multi-platform test
Alphonso Mayfield – SEIU Florida Public Services Union.
We tested the “Let’s Create More Ways to Reach the American Dream” narrative in four spaces: a local elected official’s social channels, an influencer’s platforms, independent policy journalism, and a community survey and convening with seniors.
What We Learned
- Across all platforms, housing costs, stagnant wages, and shrinking opportunities across generations dominated the conversation.
- People know what “The American Dream” means to them – personally and collectively. People were more engaged when we framed “The American Dream” as something evolving, not fading.
- Messages from trusted community voices resonated more, and sparked more attention and engagement.
The American Dream narrative is simultaneously fracturing and evolving. People still believe it’s achievable but recognize how difficult it’s become to achieve in practice. This reveals that effective wealth narratives must address major systemic barriers while keeping hope and agency alive.
Creator’s Tip
Start with trusted community voices and 'warm up' the audience with simple, emotional stories before introducing complex policy connections. Frame challenges as solvable through collective and community action rather than individual effort alone.
