Why local communities may hold the answers to national political divisions

Key Concepts

• Bridging Groups: Organizations or initiatives aimed at connecting people across societal divides.
• The Upswing: A historical analysis (book of the same name) highlighting a period of civic engagement and moral revival in the late 19th century US as a response to societal challenges.
• Moral Revival: A shift in societal values towards prioritizing community, service, and obligations to others.
• Belonging: The fundamental human need for connection and acceptance, crucial for societal health.
• Mutual Aid Networks: Locally-based, voluntary systems of cooperation and support.
• Dehumanization: The process of perceiving others as less than human, contributing to polarization and conflict.

America at a Crossroads: Finding Connection in Community

This report, part of Judy Woodruff’s “America at a Crossroads” series, examines the role of community and connection in addressing the deep divisions within the United States. The piece focuses on the idea that rebuilding civic health may begin not with large-scale political solutions, but with strengthening bonds at the local level.

The Search for Belonging and the “Upswing” Parallel

The report draws heavily from the 2020 book The Upswing: How America Came Together a Century Ago and How We Can Do It Again, co-authored by Shaylyn Romney Garrett and political scientist Robert Putnam (featured in a previous “Crossroads” report). Garrett and Putnam identified parallels between the current era and the Gilded Age – a period of rapid technological change, economic inequality, and political corruption. Contrary to expectations, Putnam’s research revealed that the response to these challenges wasn’t primarily economic, but a “moral revival.”

As Robert Putnam stated in February, “Economics was the last thing to change…the first thing to change was cultural change. It was a moral revival.” This revival involved a renewed sense of obligation to others and a focus on community well-being.

Garrett emphasizes the fundamental human need for belonging, stating, “As human beings, one of our deepest, deepest needs is to feel a sense of belonging. And when we don't have that sense of belonging, our nervous system is literally on fire.” She argues that a lack of belonging contributes to extreme views and behaviors, fueling polarization.

Beyond Intellectual Exercises: The Importance of “Heart-Centered” Connection

Garrett critiques many current “bridging initiatives” as being overly focused on intellectual debate and political identity. She argues that simply attempting to bridge Republicans and Democrats misses the crucial element of emotional connection. She questions whether these initiatives are “really hitting people in the heart, if we're actually changing their feelings toward other people.” Garrett points to the “dehumanization of the other side” as a key driver of extreme polarization.

She advocates for experiences that foster “genuine unity and genuine camaraderie” that are divorced from politics. Instead of actively seeking out those with differing political views, she suggests focusing on shared humanity and mutual support: “let's just leave politics out of the conversation entirely and approach each other as human beings who are engaged in trying to get by in the world.”

Real-World Examples: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and Individual Stories

The report highlights the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints as an example of a mutual aid network that fosters community. The story of Tom Tague, a Richmond, New Hampshire resident who relies on volunteers from the church for help with chopping firewood after receiving a pacemaker, illustrates the practical benefits of such networks.

Peter Brown, a 20-year-old member of the church, shares his personal experience of overcoming loneliness through service projects. Before joining, he described feeling isolated, stating, “Since I was in school, I never really had any friends…There was a generic friend where I would wave and say hi in the classroom. But when school was over, there's no really ever opportunity for me to get to know someone.” He now finds purpose and connection through his involvement with the church, saying, “It makes me feel like I'm valued, I'm able to help others.”

Carol Buffum, another member of the church from Brattleboro, Vermont, recounts her own experience with isolation following a severe infection that altered her appearance. She found solace and acceptance within the church community, and now seeks to create a similar space for others in her apartment building: “If we don't do something, it's not going to get better. And I just want to make it better.”

Shifting Focus: From Institutions to Individuals and Communities

Garrett argues that the solution to societal divisions lies not in relying on new institutions or philanthropic funding (which is facing increased demand and potential cuts), but in individuals taking initiative within their own communities. She emphasizes the importance of teaching children that success is not solely about economic gain, but about “creating communities that thrive, which means giving, serving, thinking about something bigger than myself.”

She poses a direct challenge to viewers: “If you're one of the majority of Americans who don't know your neighbor, why don't you start by going and meet your neighbor? Introduce yourself. Ask them if there's anything that you can do for them.” She suggests that even small acts of connection can have a significant impact.

Conclusion

Woodruff concludes by framing the report within the context of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, stating her continued commitment to reporting on the nation’s progress towards “a more perfect union.” The central takeaway is that addressing America’s deepest divides requires a shift in focus from political solutions to fostering genuine human connection and strengthening community bonds at the grassroots level. The report suggests that rebuilding civic health is not about finding common ground on ideologies, but about recognizing our shared humanity and actively supporting one another.