Ever feel the common, courteous course of conversation has devolved to “Us and Them?” For many, what used to be simple disagreements and debates have broken down into contentious arguments or worse, driving communities, businesses, and even families looking for solutions to calm the course of this polarization. Business leaders, school administrators, political leaders, and more have intentionally looked for ways to address these difficult discussions, striving for a more peaceful and productive community conversations. An event being held in the coming days will work to do just that.
Image source – braverangels.org
On March 4th, there will be a special event held by the organization, Braver Angels, to help those in attendance see the signs of polarization in their day-to-day exchanges and discover ways to navigate them and potentially reduce the risks of contempt and ridicule that can arise from polarized thinking. The program, called “Depolarizing Within,” is provided free of charge for all ages.
More on the event from the Braver Angels’ registration page:
“Polarization can be driven by how we talk with like-minded people about those on the other side. Too often, we stereotype, dismiss, or ridicule our fellow citizens who support the other political party, its leaders, and its policies.”
“This free 3-hour workshop teaches participants:
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- How to be more aware of their own “inner polarizer”
- How to be critical without demonizing, dismissing, or stereotyping large swaths of the population
- How to constructively intervene in polarizing social conversations with like-minded people.
“Who can come? Anyone interested in examining their own inner polarization and learning strategies to disagree without condemning or ridiculing others.
DATE: Saturday, March 4th, 2023
TIME: 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM
LOCATION: Osceola Golf Course clubhouse – 400 E Fayette St, Osceola, IA 50213
Those interested are asked to register at the button below:
Braver Angels works with colleges and communities across the U.S., including media and political organizations to help bring a civil course of conversation to often challenging issues.
For more information about Braver Angels, you can visit their web site at braverangels.org.
This event is sponsored by the United Women in Faith of the Osceola United Methodist Church (Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/oumciowa/).
If you have additional questions or would like more information on attending the event, please contact Anne Murr, amurr@braverangels.org.