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The Ely Alliance of Braver Angels will continue its work in 2025 to depolarize the Ely area community and create a greater understanding of various viewpoints on controversial topics.
Focused on creating more civil conversations and seeking common ground and potential solutions to challenges faced by Ely citizens, Braver Angels meets once or twice a month. Gatherings welcome participation from anyone willing to have honest conversations with the goal of better understanding the opinions of those who think differently, without trying to change anyone’s mind.
The first two meetings of 2025 will take place at the Ely Senior Center at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 7 and Thursday, Jan. 30. Gatherings are planned for different days of the week so that people with regularly scheduled monthly meetings will have an opportunity to attend some of time.
Jan. 7 will be a review of Braver Angels’ principles and practices using the national organization’s program “Navigating Difficult Conversations.”
The focus is on hearing and understanding another’s differing point of view and responding in a way that increases their understanding of your point of view.
“This is an ideal time for newcomers to learn about the skills and for past participants to brush up on their approach to those tough conversations with friends, family, and co-workers,” said Johnnie Hyde of the Ely Alliance of Braver Angels.
On Jan. 30 the gathering will be the first Ely Braver Angels discussion of copper- nickel mining.
There have been many requests to address this topic, which is arguably the most polarizing issue in the Ely area.
The format is likely to be two panels each made up of three people. One panel in favor of mining and one opposed, who will share their personal experiences that have formed their opinions and seek points on which they can agree.
Other participants will observe and then have an opportunity to share their perspectives in small groups.
“This session will undoubtedly identify the need to dive deeper into the mining issue and form the basis for future discussions,” said Hyde.
You can learn more, stay up to date with meeting plans, and sign up for the Ely Braver Angels email newsletter at the Facebook page Ely Alliance Braver Angels or email [email protected].
For resources to help with difficult conversations in your relationships, visit BraverAngels. org. If you want to know more before attending a gathering, come a halfhour early and speak to one of the steering committee members.
Gatherings are free, but donations to cover the rental costs are encouraged. There are always cookies and camaraderie.
