Using StoryCorps to Bridge America’s Political Divide
Recent polls confirm what many Americans feel, that the current political climate is dividing us. However, the nonprofit organization StoryCorps has launched an initiative to try to bridge this divide by finding common ground through sharing stories.
Bringing People Together Through Conversation
In a recent conversation hosted by StoryCorps, two men from different generations and opposite ends of the political spectrum sat down to chat. Patrick Kliebert, 29, who grew up in a conservative Catholic family, shared his background with Gary Snead, 66, a self-proclaimed “total liberal Activist.”
Their conversation was part of StoryCorps’ “One Small Step” program, overseen by Claire LeBlond. LeBlond explained that the program aims to facilitate face-to-face contact between individuals who may disagree politically, as a way to foster understanding and empathy.
Overcoming Assumptions and Finding Common Ground
The conversations facilitated by StoryCorps are not about changing someone’s mind or expressing opinions. Rather, they are about understanding the assumptions that may prevent people from truly meeting each other. By creating a space for respectful dialogue, StoryCorps hopes to show that disagreements do not have to be deal breakers.
Participants like Snead and Kliebert found common ground beyond their political differences, connecting over shared experiences of loss and grief. This shared humanity helped them take a step towards greater understanding.
LeBlond, who has facilitated numerous conversations through StoryCorps, noted that dialogue and empathy can go a long way in bridging divides. By actively listening and engaging with others, even those with whom we disagree, we can begin to break down barriers and build connections.
Ultimately, programs like StoryCorps’ “One Small Step” offer a beacon of hope in a divided world, showing that it is possible to find common ground and understanding, even in the face of political polarization.
