Toxic Polarization: What’s the left got to do with it?

September 15, 2021

The United States is polarizing faster than any other democracy. This discussion explored the question: how is the left contributing to toxic polarization and how is the left part of working to help build social cohesion? Speakers focused on the problems, challenges, and solutions and the need for intragroup work on the left.

Speakers:

• Debilyn Molineaux, President and CEO, Bridge Alliance

• Erica Etelson, Author, Beyond Contempt: How Liberals Can Communicate Across the Great Divide

• Steve House, Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives, Braver Angels

• Liz Hume (Moderator), Acting President and CEO, Alliance for Peacebuilding

Resources

• 7 Deadly Sins of Politi-Speak

• Citizen Connect

• The Drama Triangle

• Outrage Manipulation

• TED Talk: How to Fight Prejudice Through Policy Conversations

• Civility as Restorative Justice

• Why I’m Leaving the Cult of Wokeness

• Understanding Undecided Voters

• Living Room Conversations: Friends and Family Conversation Tip Sheet

• Digital Peacebuilding Playbook: Social Media