discourse moderation

Our Commitment

As two individuals who hold strong political views ourselves, we constantly struggle to find the balance between listening and advocating, and we don’t have the answer! What we are working to do is encourage people to initiate conversations, share their stories and experiences, and hopefully learn from one another. It is about shaping the space and parameters to have a discussion. 

Extremes Backfire

There’s no buts about it—the current political climate is frustrating and harmful. Engaging in these conversations can be exhausting. While it is not possible to have conversations when one individual denies the humanity of the other, these conversations can help us understand each other better. Demonizing and villainizing the other is not helpful, and research has shown, can actually push people more to the extremes—this is known as the ‘backfire effect’.

Conversation Guidelines 

• We do not engage in conversations that are malicious or hateful at their core.

• Safety first! Stepping outside of our comfort zones does not mean we should jeopardize our safety. 

• Show respect & expect respect. It is okay to leave the situation if there is not mutual respect shown.