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Workshop Offers Training on How to Discuss Politics
An interactive workshop in Newbury Park will take up the delicate matter of how to talk to people with different political views.
An interactive workshop in Newbury Park will take up the delicate matter of how to talk to people with different political views after the most divisive presidential election in recent history.
Bridging the Political Divide: Strategies for Constructive Engagement, presented by the Conejo Valley Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Community Forum, will be held on Sunday, Jan. 29 from 1:30 to 4 p.m. at the church at 3327 Old Conejo Road. The public is invited to learn about techniques for mindful communication based on critical thinking, self-reflection and insights about media influence.
The workshop will be led on Skype by Erin and Dave Ninehouser of the HearYourselfThink Project, a nonprofit organization fighting fake news and ideology-driven media reporting, and in person by communication coach and mediator Charlie Rebich.
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The impetus for the event arose from post-election questions and concerns about the direction of the nation, especially in matters of social justice. "How do we listen, talk to each other and build bridges with those with whom we most disagree?" said Randall Edwards, one of the lead organizers of the workshop.
The HearYourselfThink project has aimed its efforts at breaking down walls of polarization, building critical thinking and opposing fear-inducing narratives from right-wing media and fake news. Rebich works with individuals and organizations to optimize their communication skills. He recently launched a new project, “Real Conversations: Beyond the Divide, aimed at empowering citizens to have honest, civil and productive conversations about the nation's problems.
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Participation in the workshop is limited due to space restrictions. Those interested can reserve tickets at eventbrite.com using the Web link http//bit.ly/RSVPJAN29. There is a suggested donation of $15, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds.
Attendees should arrive early for registration, as standby tickets will be released at 1:20 p.m. for the 1:30 workshop. For questions, email forum@cvuuf.org or contact Randall Edwards through the church office at (805) 498-9548.