As we navigate through our current political tensions, shifting demographics, and even technological advancements, many people are left feeling completely connected or disconnected from their community. We’ve become accustomed to a visceral, almost subconscious attachment to our opinions – it’s hard not to feel defensive when your opinion is questioned or your beliefs are challenged. It’s far easier to surround yourself with people whose thoughts align with your own than to engage in a discussion where active listening, empathy, and understanding are essential. This salon reminded us that our personal opinions and beliefs do not have to be universal. It’s OK to have a unique opinion on politics, on religion, on the removal of Confederate monuments, but it’s paramount we practice patience and open-mindedness.
Vulnerability is difficult, awkward at times, and even more challenging with a group of individuals you’ve never met. With diverse backgrounds and experiences, our worldview is intimate and sharing it with strangers can be daunting. We saw this vulnerability firsthand in each of our conversations that veered from political to personal, disappointing to encouraging, and funny to hilarious. If this group was representative of our community, it is apparent that the willingness to listen and appreciate the perspectives of others yields empathy in its truest form. The salon brought tears, laughs, and hugs, and reminded us all what we have in common: a love for our community and the desire to make it better. We are social creatures. Shared values and common purpose define communities but the focus on understanding unfamiliar perspectives, the bravery to share opinions, and the opportunity to empathize are the foundation.
By Miya Kusumoto
“You can’t progress as a society when you have this kind of [political] asymmetry. It’s impossible.” Here is Arthur Brooks’ TED2016 talk, A conservative’s plea: Let’s work together, that was shared at our salon.- Take a look at the photographs from our “Civil Discourse” Salon here.
- Ready to take action? Join us in participating in Better Together Day, a national day of action and speaking up against intolerance organized by Interfaith Youth Core.
