Dear Newsletter,
We were both excited to learn about the
Braver Angels 2026 National Convention happening in Philadelphia and quickly signed up to attend as a red-blue pair! One of us (Doug) is a former GOP state legislator, and the other (Beth) is a long-time Democrat and health communicator. While we understand there can be wide ranges in what makes someone identify as blue or red, we appreciate that Braver Angels strives as much as possible for balance.
As co-authors of the award-winning book, Beyond the Politics of Contempt: Practical Steps to Build Positive Relationships in Divided Times, our work together has been strengthened by our differences. We have opened each other’s minds and hearts to new ways of seeing political issues, such as the importance of both activism and bridge-building.
To touch hearts and minds at the national level, it is critical that we build broad partnerships with others. In addition to our book, the Together Across Differences Substack has reached many organizations and groups interested in finding ways to address the national polarization challenge. One thing we have noticed, however, is that most of these groups lean heavily blue.
Braver Angels is weighted more toward blue members, too – yet we feel a strength for Braver Angels is proactively inviting reds to be part of our movement. Efforts like the red caucus, one-on-one conversations, debates, citizen-led solutions, and creation of the Braver Language Guide are important steps in this direction. A strength of Braver Angels is striving to be a welcoming place for ALL perspectives across the political spectrum, including the most partisan on both sides, along with moderates, purples, and others in the exhausted majority.
We know there are many blues on the convention waitlist, and we want to offer some suggestions on ways to reach out and find a red partner.
First, partner with someone you have been connected with in Braver Angels, whether in your local alliance or at a national event such as a Zoom debate or workshop. That is how we became connected, first remotely and then later in person.
Second, ask a family member or friend with different political views to attend. This could also be a great way to sustain a relationship that has been strained in these divided times.
Third, reach out to someone you don’t know very well, such as a neighbor who posts political signs or even a person with contrary views you saw at a political rally. Identify yourself and invite that person to have coffee. Learn about their family, childhood, and school experiences, work and career, hobbies, and other interests. Be curious and respectful, and ask how that person’s life experiences led to how they vote and think about politics. And, of course, share your story and how you became involved in Braver Angels. Your lives can be enriched, as will our nation. Positive change, starting two people at a time.
You can pitch the convention to someone who might be reluctant to attend by explaining how they can benefit. One thing we have come to understand in writing our book is that Braver Angels can attract more people by focusing on what we can do FOR them and less on what they can do for our organization. Suggest the convention as a great way to (1) learn ways to support personal well-being/mental health in these trying times, (2) learn positive steps to overcome challenging relationships with family or coworkers, (3) develop skills to engage with others to solve community problems, and (4) learn how to most effectively stand up for your cause while also being a bridge builder.
Good luck, and we hope to see you in Philadelphia!
Doug Teschner, New England Regional Leader
Beth Malow, Moderator and Debate Chair
PS Come check out our
Together Across Differences table with our books at the convention. We are a Braver Network partner and you can contact us at
bma...@braverangels.org. Also, make sure to check out our breakout session at the convention on “Creative Writing and Conversations on Courageous Citizenship.”
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