Workshop to build respect and better understanding in politics in Wimberley

“...I am for whatever will hold America together, full stop. I see it breaking in a million pieces and my every political impulse has to do with wanting it to hold together, to endure, to go forward in history and the world…” These words were written recently by Peggy Noonan, a conservative columnist for the Wall Street Journal.

Like Peggy Noonan, many Americans—on the left and the right—are worried about the current state of the American Experiment. Political turmoil in the aftermath of the 2016 election of President Trump, violence, and the sense of simmering discord creates pervasive anxiety. Better Angels (named for words in President Abraham Lincoln’s first inaugural address) is one nonprofit working to improve relationships between conservatives and liberals.

The idea began days after the 2016 election. Could seven strong Clinton supporters and a similar number of strong Trump supporters be brought together and participate in a structured program that would help them discover better understanding, learn ways to disagree respectfully, and even find areas of common ground? By December 2016, participants and program leaders came together for what eventually became known as the first Better Angels Red/Blue workshop. Results were so positive that it has grown into what can be described as a movement.

A key to success is the commitment of Better Angels to maintain the rule of balance between red (conservative-leaning) and blue (liberal-leaning) participants in their workshops, leadership, and even the sources of their grant funding. In less than three years, chapters (or “alliances”) have spread to all 50 states. To date more than 8,000 people have participated nationally.

The local alliance, Better Angels Central Texas, is scheduled to hold their first Red/Blue workshop in Hays County on November 21, 6-9 p.m. in Wimberley. The workshop is free. Registration is thru BetterAngelsCentralTexas.org . Seats are limited and registration is required. Click on “Events” at the top of the page.

Trained, certified facilitators will conduct the workshop. They will lead Reds and Blues in structured conversations designed to break down stereotypes and find where they agree. Registered observers are allowed but may only speak during breaks.

Local co-organizers Mike McNeil (Red) [email protected], and Susan Raybuck (Blue) susan.[email protected] are available to answer questions or help with the registration process if needed. When this workshop fills up, those interested in attending a future event can request to be added to the email list for Better Angels Central Texas.