Why understanding “them” is more important than ever

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Post-election, what path will we take?

Now, just as before the election, many of us are angry at the “other side” and fearful of what they’ll do. That fear and anger leads to skepticism about lowering hostility and working to understand the “other side.”

But trying to understand each other is more important than ever. If you’re skeptical, we hope you read this week’s piece and share. And be sure to answer the survey question at the bottom of the article!

Read "6 Obstacles to Understanding"

News and views

Some news and views this week:?

• The problem with blind allegiance to a party. Sharon McMahon, Movement Partner and “America’s Government Teacher,” appeared on the podcast Armchair Expert. (And Builders gets a mention!) Listen now.
• “Whatever happens, love your neighbor.” A Democrat living in a red, rural area writes about the importance of seeing each other’s humanity.??
• Outlooks on Trump’s election. Framechange is a non-partisan publication aimed at helping people understand different perspectives on news and events. Read their compilation of views about Trump’s election.?

Movement updates

• Amplifying voices for peace. This fall, our partner organization Peaceworks is hosting sessions featuring Israeli and Palestinian peacebuilders at various universities.?Learn more.
• Thank you for your messages! Last week we asked for your thoughts about the election and received a lot. We may share some of those messages in the near future, but for now, wanted to thank you for writing.?

Make It A Habit: Join us in persuading others

We hear it a lot: “This political toxicity is entirely the other side’s fault.”

You can think, “My political opponents are worse,” and still be a vital part of this movement. Learn how to respond when someone objects to reducing political toxicity. Read this piece and share it when you see the opportunity:?

Read "4 Myths About Our Divides"

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