Do Something.
Welcome Citizens!
Going forward post the 2024 election, we’ll need to continue talking with one another.
We’ll need to be clear about the goals of Project 2025. Gen Z has a crystal clear breakdown of Project 2025.
To secure a democratic future the 2026 midterm election, could become a very real way of setting limits on the damage the in-coming Administration can do to democracy by installing a functioning legislative branch to check a no-holds barred executive branch—as the Founding Fathers intended.
A democracy is us creating inclusive communities.
The way to get people comfortable is to talk in person, one to one.
That matters more than anything.
—Heather Cox Richardson
How to Start a Conversation
What do you think about _______?
I’m really concerned about _______ because of _______. How about you?
I know you care about _______. I do too - which is why I’m worried when I see _______ happening.
Have you heard about _______? It’s really concerning to me. What do you think?
I just learned about _______, and it’s freaking me out! What do you think about it?
Formula
Ask a question/start the conversation.
Listen to understand the concern vs react.
Acknowledge the other person’s feelings.
Find common ground (We agree that all kids should feel welcomed at school…)
Move to a “that’s why,” statement. (That’s why I can’t support policies that exclude LGBTQ+ kids from…)
Share your values - shift the conversation to your terms (make it personal).
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Issues, candidates, voting information.
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It's easier for people to find common ground on issues than parties or specific candidates.
People will make decisions on voting and candidates they support based on issues.
Issues can be tied to values - which is more powerful for persuasion than facts.
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Persuadable and unengaged likeminded
Frustrated with politics or may see both sides as same
Considering skipping some races
Regular voters who may join you in this effort
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Ask about/bring up issues
Talk about voting this year
Use Rally to find information to share and start convos
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Avoid using R and D labels
Focus on local/state elections - less polarizing
Not a one-and-done conversation - keep having the convo
Lead with empathy and LISTEN
I get it, I hear you
I totally get where you are coming from
If this were true, I would be just as concerned as you
I share some of the same concerns
Do not use, "but." Instead use, "that's why..."
Know when to walk away.
