Depolarizing Ourselves

Note: This Free event is to be attended in person (Promo Code: "BRAVER").

Faith-Sponsored Workshop Overview

For people of faith, civil discourse begins in recognizing the image of God in our conversation partner. Since we are all children of God, our approach should involve mutual respect. Respect, not agreement, is an essential key for a healthy discussion. This workshop addresses how we may inadvertently be complicit in, or possibly even encourage, polarization.

Abraham Lincoln’s famous 1858 quote, “A house divided against itself cannot stand.” refers to Matthew 12:25 – “Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand.” As members of the faith community, we are ones who can bear witness to the importance of unity and togetherness; and - even more importantly - we can be a ministry of reconciliation to others.

Polarization is fueled by how we talk about those on the other side of an issue. Too often, we ridicule, dismiss, or stereotype our fellow citizens. When Braver Angels addresses “polarization,” we are not referring to healthy disagreements over issues or philosophy. We are addressing how we regard and talk about large groups of people -- people who happen to be on the other side of the political aisle.

Goals

In this 2 hour session participants will learn:

• How to be more aware of their own “inner polarizer”
• How to be critical without demonizing, dismissing or stereotyping large swaths of the population

Who Can Attend?

Anyone interested in examining their own inner polarization and learning strategies to disagree without condemning or ridiculing others.

The workshop will go from 10am--noon and afterwards all are welcome to stay for lunch.

*Tickets are Free, Donations Help As a spam prevention measure, you must use promo code BRAVER during registration to secure your spot in the workshop. Donations beyond the free ticket support Braver Angels, 501(c)3. Braver Angels does not ask for a donation if the participant is making one to their faith organization.

Questions? Contact Ingrid Wysong, iwysong@braverangels.org

** This event is open to the media upon approval. Send requests to press@braverangels.org.