Area Nonprofit Hopes to Combat Political Polarization

A nonpartisan nonprofit based in nearby Monterey County has teamed up with for-profit entities in the hope of getting people to speak politely to one another about one of the topics that seems to always start fights: politics.

The effort is called Love, Respect and Kindness, or LRK for short, which also happens to be the values it wants to instill as antidotes to societal polarization and political division.

The campaign kicked off Aug. 1, encouraging individuals to take a pledge and then share their commitment with friends and on social media with the hashtag #LRKMustDoBetter.

"With depression levels expected to rise by 50% this election season and 55% of Americans feeling angry about politics, we hope people will take the pledge and contribute to a healthier and more respectful political discourse," said Elliot Sands, executive director of Live Faith First, the driving force behind LRK. "Our pledge is where good intentions transforms into action. Change happens one pledge at a time."

The pledge consists of the following:

1. I will see value in ALL people.
2. I will acknowledge that a person is more than their political opinions and should be treated with LRK, even when I disagree with them.
3. I will be part of the solution by embodying LRK in my in-person and online interactions.
4. I will live LRK.

LRK offers a variety of opportunities to get involved and stay connected, including access to courses and a 30-day gratitude journal. These resources are meant to foster meaningful conversations grounded in understanding and respect.

"This isn't about changing anyone's beliefs," emphasizes Elliot "It's about changing how we treat each other despite our differences. In today's divisive political climate, fostering love, respect and kindness is crucial. Every pledge is a step towards a more compassionate society."