Hometown Summit 2017

In the past year, we’ve witnessed violence at political rallies, expletive-laden voicemails, name-calling, and far worse. Sixty-nine percent of Americans agree that civility in public life has declined in the last few years, and two out of three voters say that the 2016 campaign was less civil than election contests of the past.  In local, state, and national politics, even the basic legitimacy of political opponents is routinely challenged; indeed, a widening regional and cultural gulf seems to hold no room for compromise. In an era of identity politics, taunting tweets, and lying disguised as “alternative facts,” how can we find the common values, truths, and vocabulary necessary for constructive debate? These civic innovators offer bold ideas for healing the rift.