The Ely Braver Angels Alliance will hold a gathering on Dec. 11 at 6 p.m. at the Ely Community (formerly Senior) Center.
There will be a review of skills for having conversations with respectful disagreement and the roles family members may take in political discussions, all focused on having a more enjoyable time with friends and family during holiday gatherings.
Another topic will be the new focus of the national Braver Angels organization on courageous citizenship, which seeks to reduce the feeling of powerlessness and fear in the face of political violence and turmoil. This effort includes workshops on citizen-led solutions to community issues. Details on these programs can also be found at BraverAngels.org.
In January, the Braver Angels Ely Alliance will hold a structured discussion that will include state Rep. Roger Skraba (R-Ely) and state Sen. Grant Hauschild (DFL-Hermantown).
These two have a history of “reaching across the aisle” and working together to benefit northeastern Minnesota communities, although they may disagree on many issues.
The date for that gathering hasn’t been set yet.
There will also be a social event with free food and beverages and plenty of conversation on Jan. 29 at the Boathouse from 5-7pm. Updates and future events can be found at the Ely Alliance of Braver Angels Facebook page.
The Braver Angels Ely Alliance was formed two years ago and has hosted gatherings most months since then. The steering committee members are balanced between liberal and conservative, and people of all political persuasions are welcome to attend the gatherings and share their viewpoints in respectful conversations.
The goal of Braver Angels conversation is to deepen understanding of one another’s beliefs, not to change those beliefs. Braver Angels hopes that by reducing hateful attitudes, name-calling, and demonizing, citizens can achieve the holiday messages of peace and goodwill.
