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8 lessons for Americans who want to work together
Participants discussed practical ways to rebuild trust and reduce division as philanthropy groups seek new approaches, Kennedy said.
Nearly 600 leaders representing grant makers, community foundations and grassroots groups gathered in Seattle recently at the Civic Commons to strategize on bringing Americans together amid intense polarization.
Against a backdrop of rising division across politics, class, race and faith over the past five years, Americans have grown exhausted by constant conflict, prompting this collaborative response.
Scholars, veterans of conflict zones and peacebuilding architects participated alongside coalition leaders; their first conversations aimed to connect across race, class and age while addressing local business and regional economic concerns.
Members committed to directing a faith-based grant program for local community connection, as former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern emphasized organizing around shared values during her keynote address.
Philanthropy and nonprofit sector leaders view this gathering as a catalyst for systemic change, with strategies discussed ultimately building coalitions that bridge divides by organizing communities around shared values.