There is one thing Americans agree on. Over 80% of Americans agree that our nation is more divided than it has ever been in their lifetimes.
There have always been divisions in America. Disagreement is part of living in a democracy. The problem is in how we communicate with this disagreement.
More than 1 in 3 Americans have permanently broken off a key relationship due to politics. Often these breaks are with close family members.
The current divide in America has become a social change challenge.
Recently I learned about the Dignity Index. A practical tool for people to monitor their words before they regret them. It was started in 2022 by Tim Shriver. It is a method of evaluating language. At one end of the spectrum shows contempt for others and at the other end affirms their value as a person. At the top of the spectrum is a point where no matter what I will still treat you with dignity.
I even took the Dignity Pledge:
As an American who knows and loves my country, I am convinced there is no America without democracy, no democracy without healthy debate, and no healthy debate without dignity; therefore, I pledge to do more to treat others with dignity, not contempt.
I encourage you to learn more and take the pledge, be part of the healing. Go to dignity.us.
I’m Dan Kenney and this is my perspective.
