As we approach the upcoming election on November 5th, there is no doubt that our communities feel the heightened tension of polarization, uncertainty, and divisive news cycles. In times like these, resources focused on dialogue and deliberation offer powerful tools for bridging divides and fostering meaningful conversations. Over the past week, we have shared many valuable tools and have included those all here, along with some additional resources for your use. Dialogue and deliberation practitioners play a vital role in strengthening democracy through these challenging times. We encourage you to read through the resources below, along with a note from our team, and share additional tools in the comment section. ​

A Braver Way Podcast: Braving the unknown: Your election survival guide 

Link: https://braverangels.org/a-braver-way-episode-19/ 

• This link will go live on Monday November 4 at 4pm PST, instead of their usual Tuesday, to give listeners an extra day to listen before election day. They also made sure to talk about everything in a way that it won't be out of date as soon as election day is past. So if there's an extended period of time after election day where we don't know the winner - or the results are being contested - this episode will still be relevant during that time. 

Description: How can you navigate this election with integrity? No matter who wins… no matter what? In this special election week episode, Moni and April roll out a survival guide that lends wisdom to all this anxiety. Drawing inspiration from A Braver Way guests like somatic therapist Luis Mojica, trans activist Kai Cheng Thom, conservative podcast host Wilk Wilkinson, and many more, your politically red and blue co-hosts ask what it’ll take to manage the one and only thing we can control this election… ourselves.

​In light of growing polarization on university campuses, the article "More Deliberation, Not Debate" from the Stanford Social Innovation Review examines the current emphasis on debate as the dominant form of intellectual engagement in higher education. It highlights the limitations of debate, which often prioritizes winning over understanding, and proposes a shift toward deliberation as a more constructive approach. Deliberation fosters open-minded dialogue, critical thinking, and collaboration, encouraging participants to reflect on differing viewpoints and seek common ground. Through initiatives like deliberative mini-publics and classroom pedagogy, universities can better fulfill their educational and civic missions by promoting inclusive, productive discourse that addresses complex issues thoughtfully. Read the blog post below!

A Note from NCDD's Executive Director,

As we approach the U.S. presidential election, the stakes for democracy have never felt higher. Around the world, democratic systems are under immense pressure—polarization is intensifying, trust in institutions is fading, and civic participation is at an all-time low. These issues show up in our communities as division, disengagement, and a lack of spaces for meaningful conversations. But there is hope: these challenges aren’t insurmountable. At NCDD, we believe that dialogue and deliberation give communities the tools they need to navigate through these tough times. Mediators and facilitators—those who guide these collaborative processes—are uniquely equipped to help communities overcome obstacles by fostering inclusive dialogue, resolving conflict, and encouraging active participation in democratic processes.

Why Dialogue and Deliberation Matter Now More Than Ever

In times of uncertainty and division, people crave connection, understanding, and a way forward. Dialogue is not just about talking—it’s about listening, reflecting, and creating space for voices that have been marginalized or overlooked. It helps communities tap into their collective wisdom and creates environments where differences can be explored constructively. Deliberation strengthens democracy by encouraging thoughtful, informed discussions that lead to more inclusive, sustainable solutions. When we engage deeply with the issues that matter, we empower our communities to make decisions that reflect diverse perspectives and shared values.

Democracy thrives when people feel connected, engaged, and know their voices matter. Mediators and facilitators have the unique ability to create environments where meaningful conversations happen and collaboration is possible. They don’t just help resolve conflicts—they strengthen the foundations of democracy by fostering understanding, inclusive participation, and civic engagement. Through these efforts, they help communities come together, explore diverse viewpoints, and take collective action toward a more resilient, inclusive future.

Mobilizing Practitioners for Democracy: Local Action, National Impact

Mediators and facilitators are at the core of building stronger communities and a healthier democracy. That’s why we launched the Practitioner Mobilization for Democracy campaign—to activate, support, and equip these practitioners to drive democratic engagement across the country. Mobilization is about empowering them to take action locally—to lead conversations that matter, encourage collaboration, and foster community-driven solutions that strengthen democracy from the ground up.

Through this campaign, practitioners gain the resources, support, and inspiration they need to create spaces for meaningful dialogue and collective action within their own communities. This isn’t about waiting for someone else to act—it’s about equipping people with the tools they need to strengthen democracy right where they are. Whether they’re bringing together diverse voices to discuss pressing issues, facilitating problem-solving efforts, or encouraging broader civic participation, these practitioners play a vital role in ensuring democracy stays participatory and resilient.

The Practitioner Mobilization for Democracy campaign is a call to action for mediators, facilitators, and civic engagement professionals to step into their communities and make an impact. By guiding thoughtful, inclusive conversations, these practitioners help build stronger, more connected communities—and, in doing so, they strengthen democracy itself. Learn more and get involved at: www.ncdd.org/practitionermobilization.html.

Growing the Power of We: NCDD’s Membership Campaign

At the heart of democracy is the power of connection—of people coming together to listen, share, and collaborate on solutions that reflect everyone’s needs. This belief in community-driven action is the foundation of NCDD’s “Growing the Power of We: Dialogue as the Heartbeat of Democracy” membership campaign. Learn more at: www.ncdd.org/membercampaign.html.

In this critical moment for democracy, NCDD invites you to join a growing network of mediators, facilitators, and civic engagement professionals who are dedicated to fostering inclusive dialogue and deliberation. As a member, you gain access to tools, resources, and opportunities to engage in nationwide efforts that promote civic participation and build meaningful connections across perspectives. Membership opens doors to a vibrant community of practitioners who are committed to deepening democratic engagement through dialogue and deliberation.

By becoming a member of NCDD, you’re stepping into a movement that believes in the power of dialogue to strengthen democracy—one conversation at a time. Together, we are growing the Power of We, creating spaces where every voice is heard, differences are respected, and collective action takes root. Your membership doesn’t just support the work of dialogue practitioners—it helps build a more resilient, inclusive democracy that reflects the values and perspectives of all its people.

Join us today in our efforts to strengthen democracy by fostering connection, understanding, and collective action. The time to act is now, and NCDD is ready to welcome you into this important work of creating a thriving, participatory democracy. Join NCDD at: www.ncdd.org/join.html.

For a resilient democracy,
Keiva Hummel
Executive Director, NCDD - National Coalition for Dialogue & Deliberation

​Over the past two years, Natasha Seegert, Associate Professor and Director of Conflict Resolution at the University of Utah, has used the documentary The Basement Talks to facilitate classroom discussions on abortion. In three of her classes, including those for K-12 teachers and undergraduates, the film prompted deep, empathetic dialogues, where students expressed greater complexity and uncertainty around the topic. By integrating reflective dialogue questions, Seegert helped students navigate their differences with generosity and empathy, ultimately revealing common values despite divergent views on the issue. These discussions empowered students with a framework for handling divisive topics with dignity. Read more in the blog post below and learn more here.

On July 1st, NCDD along with several partners, launched the Practitioner Mobilization for Democracy (PMD) to engage mediation and facilitation practitioners in fostering democratic engagement and resolving conflicts. The virtual event featured keynote speakers Ken Cloke and Joan Blades, who emphasized the importance of dialogue in strengthening democracy and building community trust. The initiative aims to mobilize practitioners for pro-democracy efforts, with opportunities for involvement through monthly forum calls, resources, and joining the organizing team. Learn more in the post below and join the mobilization!

Celebrate this Fourth of July with the return of A Braver Way podcast for its second season, featuring real-life stories from across the political spectrum. Their first episode aired July 2, 2024, and dove into the fierce rivalry between Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton, exploring how their partisan clashes can inform our political disagreements today. Tune in to discover how Americans are taking the toxicity out of politics and fostering productive conversations. Read the blog post below, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, or learn more here.

"Everyone’s In" (EI) is a new initiative from NCDD friends, the National Issues Forums Institute (NIFI), designed to facilitate respectful and inclusive discussions on controversial political issues. It aims to promote understanding and learning, with a focus on elections and voting. The program employs updated forum formats and materials for both online and in-person settings, incorporating informal polls, background information, and thoughtful dialogue to ensure inclusive participation and engagement on political subjects. Find resources and upcoming training opportunities in August to support using the EI guides. Read more in the blog post below and learn more here.

NCDD Member Organization, Essential Partners, and local YMCAs are launching a two-year project funded by a $224,000 grant to create a network of community bridge-builders across the U.S. Using the Reflective Structured Dialogue approach, they will train YMCA staff, volunteers, and youth leaders to foster inclusive public discourse and enhance social cohesion. The initiative aims to empower communities to navigate differences and promote a sense of inclusion and belonging. Learn more in post below and on EP's site here. 

Everyone's In introduces an innovative online forum format, fostering courteous conversations on challenging issues. Developed by NCDD Member Organization, The National Issues Forums Institute, it ensures inclusive participation through anonymous polls and equal footing for all participants. Learn more in the blog post below and on the NIFI site here.