Description

Launched in 2016, Better Angels is a bipartisan citizen's movement to unify our divided nation. The organization is committed to teaching practical skills for communicating across political differences and, where possible, making a strong public argument for depolarization.

It seeks to bring red and blue Americans together into a working alliance, building new ways to talk to one another, participate together in public life, and influence the direction of the nation. Better Angels does not ask people to change their minds about issues. Rather, it strives to give Americans a chance to better understand each other, to recognize the values and experiences that inform our political philosophies, and ultimately to recognize our common humanity.

The organization's establishment was inspired by the words of President Abraham Lincoln — "We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies. Though passion may have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection. The mystic chords of memory…will yet swell the chorus of the Union, when again touched, as surely they will be, by the better angels of our nature."

There's a lot of stress these days among family members and friends who are divided politically. The current polarized public conversation doesn't help! That could be a recipe for a difficult Thanksgiving and more stress during family gatherings over the winter holidays. The Better Angels Skills Workshop is a great opportunity to learn skills for having respectful conversations that clarify differences, search for common ground, and affirm the importance of the relationship regardless of differences in views.

After a presentation, you will have an opportunity to practice conversation skills. You will practice in a pair with someone of your same political persuasion — red or blue. If you fall somewhere in the middle, you can choose a side for purposes of practicing the skills.

The workshop will be led by Karen Reiner and Randy Freeman. Karen recently served as NJ/PA Regional Coordinator for Better Angels. Randy is now the Regional Coordinator for NJ. Both Karen and Randy are Better Angels-trained moderators. The event is being organized by Randy and her husband, Ken Freeman (HBS MBA '73). Randy reminds Ken that she too attended HBS . . . even if just for Dr. Barrie Greiff's Executive Family course.

Please bring along a simple lunch and beverage or bring a snack and look forward to a wonderful late lunch in Montclair.

Please note that no refunds will be issued.