Finding common ground (in a time of political diversity)
AS I SEE IT
By Rev. Jimm Innes
POLITICAL issues are becoming more complex as our society grows more diverse and less tied to traditional beliefs.
This diversity makes conversations on these topics increasingly challenging. Often, people do not share the same values or understand each other’s views, making it tough to find common ground.
For instance, when discussing school policies, some individuals advocate for including religious teachings, while others support a secular approach to education. These contrasting beliefs in education mirror similar divisions in other areas, such as healthcare, where opinions often clash regarding the fundamental right to access services.
In healthcare debates, perspectives differ: some argue that free healthcare is a basic right, while others maintain that individuals should bear the costs of their own services. These discussions have revealed significant divisions within our society.
Consider the topic of Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID), which highlights how our moral compasses can point in different directions. Alternatively, reflect on the landscape in Canada and the United States, where the gap between political views is becoming more pronounced every day.
The bottom line is to be careful about whom we tell what and how we say it when we do decide to open up. It is unfortunate that not everybody believes in creating an inclusive and nurturing community, nor do folks necessarily accept or agree with the boundaries of a ‘woke’ mindset. Many are finding themselves confused or pushed too far.
If someone is brave enough to discuss a controversial topic, especially with strangers, they risk encountering views that clash with their own. I have made the mistake of expressing viewpoints that, surprisingly to me, have sparked resentment, arguments, and even distance between me and the other person. It was never my intent to do so, but one never knows how strongly people feel about certain issues, nor how they will react when provoked.
When individuals hold tightly to their beliefs, it hampers collaboration. Some shy away from sensitive topics for fear of backlash, while others raise their voices too loudly, creating animosity. Both behaviours can lead to isolation and deeper divisions.
Many others, perhaps less opinionated, choose to stay in the background, hesitant to express their opinions on controversial issues out of fear of conflict. This trend is increasing as our communities become more diverse and demand greater political and social sensitivities. This manner of silence, though safe, can lead to fragmentation and even deeper divisions and misunderstandings.
Understanding and compassion are crucial in our diverse society; however, many roadblocks hinder our ability to express these feelings. Not the least of these are cultural misunderstanding, moral entrenchment, ingrained prejudice, lack of education, and plain-old emotional defensiveness.
There is no easy answer to managing the intricacies of our contemporary social sensitivities and the growing complexity within political viewpoints. Many well-intentioned efforts can, unfortunately, make matters worse. As I see it, the best we can do is to become aware of our subtle opinions and inherent biases and engage honestly and sincerely with the things we struggle with. And, as we do, so it is important to accept that we’re going to make a lot of mistakes. Most likely, we will get bitten on occasion.
Rev. Jim Innes is the rector of St. John's, Grand Bend with St. Anne's, Port Franks.