Why RedBlue?
“Democracy requires space for compromise, and compromise is best won through acknowledging the legitimate concerns of the other.”
- Daniel Yankelovich, Christian Science Monitor, 2004
95 percent agree with the statement: “Our country is strongest when it is united and together and therefore we need to find common solutions to our problems that both Democrats and Republicans agree with.”
- Aspen Institute Survey, July 6, 2006
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Communication Ground Rules
Communication Ground Rules are used in face-to-face and online dialogues to help support participants' intentions for open, constructive conversations. Previous participants have taught us that the following Communication Ground Rules have helped them to engage in deeper, more stimulating, and productive conversations about divisive issues.
Confidentiality
I am free to repeat to anyone what I write in the dialogues. Unless given explicit permission by my partner, I will not re-post, copy, or forward the content of what my partner has written.
Voluntary Participation
If my partner or I do not wish to respond to a particular question, we will write "pass." We will accept each other's right to pass, without making inferences or drawing conclusions from this.
Personal Speaking
I will ground what I write in my own personal experience and not speak on behalf of any groups of people (for example, all men/women, conservatives/liberals, African-Americans/Latinos/Asians/whites, religious or ethnic groups, etc.).
Sharing Airtime
I will make space for my partner and not be overly wordy.
Listening for Understanding
I will bring my curiosity and read what my partner writes for the purpose of understanding, rather than for agreement. When I do not understand or agree, I will try to learn about where my partner is coming from, rather than try to persuade, convince, or negotiate with them.
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