Messiah University to offer free events on productive disagreement across divides
Messiah University will host two free, public events aimed at fostering respectful dialogue and strengthening relationships across political differences.
“Bridging Relationship Divides in an Era of Political Polarization”
Dr. Bill Doherty, marriage and family therapist and professor emeritus in the Department of Family Social Science at the University of Minnesota, will deliver a lecture addressing the growing challenges of political polarization and its impact on personal relationships and communities.
In his presentation, “Bridging Relationship Divides in an Era of Political Polarization,” Doherty will explore how the current “red/blue” divide affects families, friendships and civic life. Drawing on more than a decade of work on depolarization and reconciliation, he will discuss the roots of polarization and offer practical ways individuals can preserve important relationships while engaging thoughtfully across political differences.
Doherty taught family science and marriage and family therapy at the University of Minnesota for 38 years and is widely known for his work on strengthening families and communities. He is the co-founder of Braver Angels, a national citizen initiative that brings conservatives and liberals together to reduce political polarization and build mutual understanding.
This lecture is sponsored by Messiah University’s Department of Human Development and Family Science, the Honors Program, the Graduate Program in Counseling and the Mid-Atlantic Council on Family Relations.
Important details:
Date: Thursday, April 16
Location: Parmer Hall, High Center, Messiah University
Time: 7 p.m.
Admission is free and no ticket is required.
Braver Angels “Skills for Disagreeing Better” Workshop
Messiah will also host a Braver Angels “Skills for Disagreeing Better” workshop, an interactive event designed to help participants communicate more effectively across political and ideological differences.
This workshop invites attendees to explore the values and concerns that shape differing perspectives while developing practical skills for respectful, productive conversation. Participants will learn how to engage in disagreement without escalating conflict, fostering greater understanding even in the presence of deeply held differences.
Braver Angels is a national organization dedicated to bringing Americans together across political divides, equipping individuals with tools to strengthen relationships and build a healthier civic culture.
This workshop is sponsored by the Conservatives of Messiah University Club and the Department of Human Development and Family Science.
Important details:
Date: Saturday, April 18
Location: Hostetter Chapel, Messiah University
Time: 1–2:30 p.m.
Admission is free and open to the public; registration is required.