Introduction
Elected authoritarian leaders understand the power of stories. They use narratives to dominate public conversation and consolidate power through lies, distortion, fear, and division. Yet they also speak in simple, accessible language, creating a sense of belonging to engage overlooked communities. Identifying this helps us understand their appeal and how to counter it.
That's where this volume of the Anti-Authoritarian Toolkit comes in. It focuses on narrative strategies: six plays designed to help you present your messages, connect emotionally with voters, and build resilient political movements. Each play offers tested approaches to capture attention, inspire action, and foster long-term engagement—not just moments of mobilization, but lasting communities of trust and participation.
We show how to ground messaging in real concerns, craft universal themes that unite diverse groups, and use humor and symbols to engage people. We also explore how to break through authoritarian shields—exposing corruption, betrayal, and the harm hidden behind false promises. These plays have been put into practice in diverse environments where narrative control was key to resisting authoritarianism.
Throughout, we emphasize narratives that reflect people's lived experiences—showing how political change can improve the daily life of citizens. When messages mirror familiar and prevailing struggles and hopes, they become more authentic, mobilizing, and credible.
But narrative is only one dimension of political action. We are not an empty marketing company. Real change comes through organizing, delivering, and governing. The strongest and most lasting narrative is built through action—through tangible delivery and earned trust, not just words.
Our goal is to equip you with the tools to take control of public discourse and reshape our communities around values of unity, hope, and shared humanity. Because the stories we tell can turn the tide.
With love,
Nika Kovač. Executive Director, D-Hub.
Download the Volume Today
Take your copy with you and learn how to fight back against authoritarians