Group aims to
reach across the political divide, develop more respectful dialogue
CONWAY, Ark. (September 10,
2024)—Representatives from Braver Angels Arkansas will visit Hendrix College to
present “How to Have a Constructive Conversation Across the Political Aisle” on
Wednesday, September 25, from 5:30-6:45 p.m. in Lecture Hall C of the Mills
Center for Social Sciences (building 10 on the current campus map). The event is free and open to the public.
Braver Angels
Arkansas is the state chapter of
the national Braver Angels organization, which is a cross-partisan,
volunteer-led movement that aims to bridge the partisan divide. Their goal is not to change people’s views of issues, but to
change their views of each other.
“I’m delighted to welcome
state leaders from Braver Angels Arkansas to share their strategies about how
to meaningfully engage in political conversations with people who have
different views,” says Dr. Jonathan Hancock, Associate Professor of History. In
addition to his work in the classroom, Hancock directs Hendrix’s involvement
with Project Pericles, a consortium of colleges and universities that
promotes civic engagement within higher education.
“This work is difficult,
important, and necessary in our polarized times,” Hancock said. “The
communication strategies that Braver Angels will share apply not only to the
sphere of politics, but to conversations around a seminar table, microscope, or
locker.”
In the event of larger
turnout than Mills Lecture Hall C can accommodate, the organizers of the event
are prepared to move to nearby Lecture Hall A.
About Hendrix College
Founded in 1876, Hendrix
College is featured in Colleges That Change Lives: 40 Schools That Will Change
the Way You Think About Colleges and celebrated among the country’s leading
liberal arts colleges for academic quality, engaged learning opportunities and
career preparation, vibrant campus life, and value. The Hendrix College
Warriors compete in 21 NCAA Division III sports. Hendrix has been affiliated
with the United Methodist Church since 1884. Learn more at www.hendrix.edu.
“… Through engagement
that links the classroom with the world, and a commitment to diversity,
inclusion, justice, and sustainable living, the Hendrix community inspires
students to lead lives of accomplishment, integrity, service, and joy.” —Hendrix College Statement of Purpose