The polarization of American politics has become a frequent topic in our news. Many researchers assert that this polarization is not only increasing but is often accompanied by antipathy and sometimes violence. And it is not just happening "somewhere else"; the effects of these divisions are being felt in many neighborhoods.

At the same time, organizations are emerging with the specific aim of bringing Americans together. One such organization is Braver Angels, a volunteer-led, nationwide movement bringing Americans together across the political divide to talk and work together. They use workshops, debates, and skills training in a variety of settings to help Americans with opposing views understand the other’s point of view, look for common ground, and come up with ways of working together. Braver Angels offers community and corporate training workshops, ongoing red-blue alliances to work on issues of common concern, debates in schools and on college campuses, and a council of scholars who offer analysis and possible solutions. Similarly, Millions of Conversations transcends divides by uniting Americans around common values for a shared future. The Millennial Action Project seeks to activate young leaders to bridge the partisan divide and transform American politics. The Care Lab strives to bring people and ideas together, across divides, to create a care-centered world. The Listen First Project is a collaborative movement of 400+ organizations participating in national campaigns and strategies to heal America by bridging divides. Interfaith America inspires, equips, and connects leaders and institutions to unlock the potential of America's religious diversity. Citizen University equips citizens around the country with the tools, ideas, and relationships needed to make civic culture change take root. Public Agenda is a nonpartisan research and public engagement organization dedicated to strengthening democracy and expanding opportunity for all Americans. Convergence convenes people and groups with divergent views to build trust, identify solutions, and form alliances for action on critical national issues. Essential Partners equips civic leaders, community stakeholders, and organizations to hold constructive conversations about the values, views, and identities that are most essential to them in building more inclusive, open, and healthier communities. BridgeUSA empowers young people from across the political spectrum to fight for a less polarized society. The Mediators Foundation supports and enhances the work of bridge-builders, peace-makers, and civic thought-leaders. The One America Movement equips faith communities to confront division and work together across political, racial, and religious divides.

Whether you become a Braver Angel or join another similar group in your area, become a part of the movement to bring Americans together through constructive cross-partisan engagement.

Habib Todd Boerger in Practicing Democracy in Your Neighborhood