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On January 30th the Ely Alliance of Braver Angels will tackle the tough topic of copper-nickel mining near the BWCAW.
Moderators from the Minnesota State Braver Angels will lead an expanded workshop format that is different from past gatherings of the group. Five to six participants will form two panels, one in favor of this type of mining and one opposed.
The purpose will be to create deeper understanding of one another’s viewpoints and to identify the values and concerns of the Ely community, find areas of agreement, and begin to seek solutions to problems. There is no attempt to persuade one another to change their minds.
Panel participants will be diverse in their age, time living in Ely, work situation, and connection to the issues around copper-nickel mining such as environmental protection and the economy.
Attendees who are not panel participants will be observers who will have the opportunity to provide comments and evaluate the workshop upon its conclusion.
Observers will help structure future Ely Braver Angels discussions focused on this topic.
This gathering will be held at the Ely Senior Center. All are welcome to attend as observers. The doors will open at 5:30 p.m. with the goal of starting the threehour workshop promptly at 6 p.m. Observers may leave at any time.
Moderators will guide the panelists’ discussion to strive for the goal of finding common ground, and will serve as timekeepers to ensure a well-rounded conversation in which each of the participants has the opportunity to present their views. As always, there will be cookies.
To learn more about Braver Angels, visit the website for the national organization at BraverAngels.org or go to the Ely Alliance Braver Angels Facebook page. Learn to disagree without being disagreeable.
