I spent today observing a Red/Blue workshop conducted by Better Angels (https://www.better-angels.org/).  This organization’s slogan is “Let’s Depolarize America”, and they aim to do just that.

I observed four self-identified conservatives (Reds) and five self-identified liberals (Blues).  Over the course of a day, this group engaged in facilitated exercises to identify stereotypes, find common values, and ask questions of each other.

I was privileged to spend a day observing how the power of listening to each other opens us up to recognizing an other’s inherent humanity.   This realization leads to greater understanding and respect for people holding some views that are very different from my own.

The purpose was not to change anyone’s mind.  The Better Angels’ goal to dial down the polarization was achieved in this small group today.  This organization is in the process of growing so that more and more people can have this experience.  What a worthy enterprise!