In the summer of 2024, the volunteer-led organization Braver Angels orchestrated a remarkable event in Kenosha, Wisconsin. The gathering brought together 750 individuals from across the political spectrum, ranging from college students to octogenarians, to engage in meaningful dialogue about pressing issues and potential solutions beyond partisan lines.
Braver Angels, founded in 2016, has been working tirelessly to bridge political divides across the United States. With over 70,000 members nationwide and local alliances in all 50 states, the organization has been at the forefront of combating political polarization through workshops, debates, and events.
The Washington Post interviewed 30 participants, revealing a spectrum of perspectives on the nation's fractures and sources of hope. Michael Hernandez, a 25-year-old conservative Democrat from Connecticut, shared his experience of heated family debates, emphasizing the importance of maintaining relationships despite differing opinions.
Brandon Lawson, a 52-year-old Republican from Ohio, stressed the need to consider opposing viewpoints: "You gotta take a step back and try to look at it from their side." This sentiment aligns with Braver Angels' "red/blue" workshop model, which aims to foster understanding between conservatives and liberals.
"Peace does not come by force. It can only be done with cooperation and understanding."
Naiomi Lundman, a 46-year-old unaffiliated voter from Wisconsin, highlighted the value of international experience in problem-solving and creating hope. Her perspective resonates with Braver Angels' approach to constructive conversations and their "Depolarizing Within" workshop, which encourages participants to examine their own biases.
The organization's efforts extend to younger generations through initiatives like "Braver Angels for High Schools." Jasmine Kemp, a 21-year-old student from Illinois who leans blue, expressed disappointment in the current political climate but found hope in the passion of youth for various issues.
Ron McFarland, a 69-year-old Republican from Iowa, shared a personal story of family conflict over political views, emphasizing the importance of historical perspective and resilience. This experience underscores the need for Braver Angels' "Families and Politics" workshop, which addresses family conflicts arising from political differences.
Carolyn Peterson, a 43-year-old professor from Ohio who leans blue, discussed the challenges of fostering intellectual diversity in the classroom. Her concerns reflect the broader societal issues that Braver Angels seeks to address through its various programs and online skills training for constructive conversations.
The Rauchers, Jane Connor (79, Democrat) and Steve (83, Republican), offered a unique perspective as a politically diverse couple. Their emphasis on dealing with issues rather than politics aligns with Braver Angels' focus on problem-solving and cooperation.
As the United States approaches another election cycle, the work of Braver Angels and the experiences shared by these participants offer a glimmer of hope. By fostering understanding, respect, and civil discourse, there is potential for healing the nation's deep-seated divisions and moving towards a more united future.