Courageous Conversations: Let’s Talk (Political) Parties!
Saturday, April 1, 2023 — 10:30 am to 11:30 am
Join us for an open, respectful conversation about political parties.
April 1, 2023
Event Information
When
THIS EVENT HAS ENDED
Saturday, April 1, 2023
10:30 am to 11:30 am
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Where
Berlin-Peck Memorial Library
234 Kensington Road
Berlin, CT
Where do our major political parties stand today?
How do you feel about the options you have on voting day?
In this conversation, we’ll talk about why people in one party often don’t understand why someone can vote for another party, what is and isn’t working in our political parties, and the ways our own values may align with or differ from the parties for whom we vote.
Prior to the conversation, please read the articles and take the Political Typology Quiz.
Be Prepared
Prior to the conversation, please read this month’s articles. Printed copies are available at the Library.
Americans not only divided, but baffled by what motivates their opponents
A report from PennState by Eric Plutzer and Michael Berkman
Beyond Red vs. Blue: The Political Typology
A report from the Pew Research Center
Political Typology Quiz
A quiz by Pew Research
Dive Deeper
Optional Reading/Listening
Besides the resources listed below, you may also choose to do further reading from other sources. If you do so, keep these guidelines in mind:
- Choose a reputable source
Check out the credentials of the author or publication and look for a fact-based article or book. Don’t waste time reading opinion pieces from someone who’s trying to rile you up. - Exit your echo chamber
Look for a thoughtful article or book from someone whose opinion differs from yours. Learn what the other side says and keep guideline #1 in mind when you choose this source.
The Two-Party System and Views of Differences between the Republican and Democratic Parties
A report from the Pew Research Center
What Republican Parents Really Want by Patrick T. Brown
An article from the New York Times. Click here to use your Berlin-Peck library card for free access to the New York Times online.
What are Courageous Conversations?
Courageous Conversations is a small-group discussion series that will provide an opportunity for people of all backgrounds and viewpoints to discuss important local, cultural, social, and political issues in a safe environment where differing opinions, patient listening, and respectful discussion are welcomed as a necessary part of building connection with others and identifying shared values. Participants may be asked to read short articles, books, or listen to podcasts prior to the meetings and will be asked to abide by our shared discussion guidelines.
Library staff will facilitate the conversations and ensure that all participants have the opportunity to share in the discussion.
The event is in person and attendance space is limited; please remember to register.
More Conversations
Check out the Courageous Conversations page for a complete list of upcoming and past conversation topics!
Photo and Video Disclaimer
The Berlin-Peck Memorial Library, as a public place, reserves the right to photograph and record groups and individuals using library services and attending library programs, and to publish those photographs and videos publicly in its newsletter and on social media outlets. Please contact 860-828-7125 with questions.
Accommodations Statement
If you require special accommodation for any library sponsored event, please call 860-828-7125 or email library@berlinpeck.org at least ten (10) days prior to the event.