Resilient Communication: A New Crisis Communication Strategy for Homeland Security

Current crisis communication plans and guidance at all levels of government focus almost exclusively on communication during a crisis, rather than a comprehensive approach that also addresses the timeframe well before and well after a disaster. Furthermore, existing crisis communication strategy does not include approaches to enhance resiliency in individuals and communities affected by disaster. A case study of the 2007 Greensburg, Kansas tornado assessed the crisis communication strategy surrounding the disaster to assist in the development of a new comprehensive crisis communication strategy for homeland security. The case study revealed the need for homeland security leaders to reframe crisis communication by considering disasters as the norm, not a rarity. The case study also found significant benefits to utilizing a complex systems approach in crisis communication strategy, specifically the pragmatic complexity model. New crisis communication approaches were recommended including a public partnership approach and a resilient messagingsurvivor psychology approach. The research recommendations also included specific before and after message themes to engage the public and help them become more resilient. The case study and research concluded a state-level strategy would be most beneficial and would allow specific messaging to be delivered by leaders familiar to the community affected.