When out and about in the Valley, you’ve likely noticed people protesting policies they find harmful and unfair, and other folks expressing support for the opposite side. Our society needs people willing to stand up and fight for what they feel is right, but we also need neighbors with differing views to be willing to sit down and have the hard conversations that lead to deeper understanding, increased trust, and civic renewal.
Enter Braver Angels, America’s largest grassroots organization working toward political depolarization. Formed in the wake of the contentious 2016 presidential election, Braver Angels has grown to more than 14,000 members, with 120 local alliances made up of Reds and Blues and offerings including workshops titled “Disagreeing Better” and “Depolarizing Within.”
Hoping to bring the spirit and principles of Braver Angels to the Valley, a group of us have begun to meet monthly to brainstorm ways for Reds and Blues to talk to each other, learn from each other, and build stronger community. Our goal in this work is not to change anyone’s mind but to build trust — a crucial element of democracy — through active listening and respectful dialogue.
Political bridging is hard work. It requires openness, courage, and humility. But we believe that change is possible one conversation at a time. To quote Braver Angels member and neurology professor Beth Malow, “Sometimes the most subversive thing you can do is talk with someone you disagree with.”
If this appeals, we hope you’ll join our next meetup. We meet third Saturdays in Easthampton. For details, email ma-coordinators@braverangels.org.
Linda Clark, Rachel Markowitz, Chris Weaver, and Tad Staley
Easthampton, Northampton, and Amherst