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Our nation’s founders envisioned the ideal of a “more perfect Union,” sustained by principles of justice, domestic tranquility, safety, the common good and liberty for all. While we have not always lived up to these goals, the aspirational quality of our striving to achieve them is a central animating feature of American democracy.
In recent years, months and days, our progress has been threatened by politically motivated violence. In June, Minnesota Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were killed at the front door of their home. State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, were shot by the same perpetrator. Last week, Charlie Kirk, an influential conservative activist, was killed during an appearance at Utah Valley University. These acts, and others intended to silence political discourse, cause us to worry deeply about our ability to respectfully exchange ideas in ways that can strengthen our democracy and anchor us to our shared humanity. As presidents of two Minnesota colleges that often are characterized as being at opposite ends of the political spectrum, we together grieve violence, political or otherwise, and issue a call for peace, reconciliation and civility — in our public discourse and our regard toward one another.
Last year, Macalester College and University of Northwestern-St. Paul launched an initiative with Braver Angels (a cross-partisan movement designed to bridge the partisan divide and strengthen our democratic republic), seeking to prepare students for lives of purpose and civic engagement. Alongside nine students and one faculty member from each school, we meet every two weeks, alternating between campuses.
As the leaders of our respective college communities, we’re part of these gatherings, building meaningful and lasting relationships. We all share a meal together while listening, asking questions, discussing and learning. Last year’s pilot program was so successful that we’re continuing it this year.
At these gatherings, our conversations can be difficult and truly personal. We often disagree, but we leave with deeper and more honest friendships than when we began. We also learn to find common ground. We agree that we share the same telos — a more perfect union — even though we may differ on what that looks like and how best to get there. We discuss politics and policies, and we discuss the sources of our convictions. We learn to speak charitably of one another. And, with humility, we honor our shared humanity and the dignity of every person. We are better for it. Our students are better for it. Our society is better for it. Our college campuses should be a place for the open exchange of ideas, not violence.
We know that words matter. Rhetoric matters. And language sometimes can be used to inflict harm. Can we learn to debate in the open marketplace of ideas without demeaning and destroying people, families, lives and livelihoods? Can we learn to be respectful toward people with whom we disagree? Can we enjoy a meal, rich conversation and laughter with someone who votes differently than we do? The answer to all of these questions should be a resounding “yes” — even if it’s scary, and even if we don’t get it right on the first try. At Macalester and Northwestern, we will continue this work because we want to create a more hopeful world together.
