There can be little doubt that political polarization in America has reached levels unprecedented in our lifetime.
A January 2020 research paper authored by economists from Brown and Stanford Universities found that “Political polarization among Americans has grown rapidly in the last 40 years…a phenomenon possibly due to increased racial division, the rise of partisan cable news and changes in the composition of the Democratic and Republican parties.”
It seems our ability to discuss – let alone solve –our most important problems has been eclipsed by finger-pointing, partisan echo chambers, conspiracy theories and social media memes.
At LAF’s virtual forum on Wednesday, November 17, a panel made up of the chairs of the Buncombe County Democratic and Republican parties, along with the leader of a statewide non-partisan organization, will discuss where we are and try to identify practical ways to build bridges between people with widely divergent views. We’ll also invite you to contribute your ideas on solutions.
Dreama Caldwell is Co-Director of Down Home North Carolina, a statewide non-partisan organization focused on connecting with residents of North Carolina’s rural counties. She has worked in early childhood education, hospitality and political advocacy to help build power for the working class and poor people. She lives in Alamance County.
Jeff Rose is Chair of the Buncombe County Democratic Party, focusing on engaging voters around Democratic politics and issues on a local level year-round. Professionally, he works to provide technology and engineering support to state Democratic parties and campaigns nationwide.
Glenda Weinert is Chair of the Buncombe County Republican Party. She has owned and operated a multi-site child care business and a private duty home health company. She is now a franchisee for a fast casual restaurant chain with multiple locations in Buncombe County. She also has served on a number of local nonprofit boards and commissions.
Because of the importance of the topic, and our desire to engage as many people as possible, this free forum will be available via Zoom to any interested persons – whether or not they are members of LAF. Please invite your friends to register. The program will begin at 12 Noon and end at approximately 1:30pm.