Over the past several months, I've written about the importance of strengthening our democracy—not by defeating one another, but by learning how to work together despite our differences.
Last month, it was my privilege to attend the Braver Angels National Convention, joining over eight hundred people from across the political spectrum. Convention attendees included members of Congress, thought leaders, and many with innovative ideas to improve our country and the effectiveness of our government. All who were there share a common belief: our country can do better!
I returned home encouraged—not because I discovered a magic solution to America's challenges, but because I met people who are committed to doing the difficult work of rebuilding trust, one conversation at a time.
All participants were encouraged both to sign the Braver Angels pledge, which was unveiled at the conference, but to also establish a personal pledge or commitment.
My pledge was to "move from witness to participant".
Following the convention, I reflected on those five words.
It's easy to watch. It's easy to criticize. It's easy to become frustrated with politics, the media, or "the other side." It is much harder to step forward, engage respectfully, and become part of the solution.
That idea connects directly to what I've been trying to accomplish through Speak Up for Good Government, my work with Voice of the People, and my involvement with Braver Angels.
Whether we're facilitating conversations about immigration, promoting public consultation, exploring ways to address gerrymandering, or simply encouraging neighbors to listen to one another, the goal is the same:
Move from observing our democracy to helping improve it.
Several themes emerged repeatedly throughout the convention:
First, we often overestimate how divided we really are. While our disagreements are real, most Americans want many of the same things: safe communities, economic opportunity, fairness, and a government that listens to its citizens.
Second, meaningful relationships begin when we challenge our own assumptions. One speaker reminded us that "no one is as simple as they seem." That observation resonated with me because it reflects what I witnessed in our two Northeast Ohio Common Ground Workshops. When people listen with curiosity instead of certainty, common ground becomes much easier to find.
Third, incentives matter. As I continue exploring and promoting gerrymandering reform, I was encouraged by conversations about safe congressional districts, communities of interest, and ways to strengthen accountability between elected officials and the people they represent. The conference reinforced my belief that improving our democratic institutions requires more than electing different people. It requires creating systems that encourage collaboration, responsiveness, and genuine representation.
Perhaps the most hopeful message of the convention was that renewal begins with each of us.
There was also a recurring emphasis on turning conversation into action. Dialogue is essential, but it is only the beginning!
The real challenge is finding practical ways for citizens to influence public policy, strengthen their communities, and continue working together after the conversation ends.
In the weeks ahead, I'll be following up with new partners, continuing our immigration dialogue efforts, advancing gerrymandering reform efforts, and exploring additional opportunities to collaborate with organizations committed to healthier civic engagement.
If there's one lesson I brought home from the Braver Angels National Convention, it's this:
America doesn't need more spectators. It needs more participants.
Our democracy has never depended solely on elected officials. It has always depended on ordinary citizens who choose to stay engaged, listen respectfully, and work together to solve difficult problems.
That's a challenge worth accepting.
Next month I'll provide updates on gerrymandering reform and on some of the organizations I learned about at the Braver Angels Convention.
As always, I welcome your thoughts, ideas, and constructive feedback. The conversation continues—and I hope you'll continue it with me.
