Grounds for Dialogue - Cultivating Understanding Across Divides
Our nation is experiencing deepening political polarization, leading to social division, frustration, erosion of trust, and increasing difficulty in addressing shared challenges. Grounds for Dialogue responds to these conditions by creating a structured, welcoming space for honest and courageous conversation across political differences. This event is not a debate and not an exercise in persuasion. Instead, it is designed to foster connection, understanding, and the rebuilding of social cohesion. Participants will engage with one another as fellow community members, practicing careful listening, reflecting on personal values, and exploring complex issues with curiosity rather than defensiveness. Through moderated roundtable dialogue, participants will: - Practice deep listening skills that reduce defensiveness and increase understanding - Explore challenging civic issues while remaining grounded in shared human values - Build relationships across political and social divides - Strengthen the foundations for civic cooperation, trust, and community safety Grounds for Dialogue is part of an ongoing effort to help Houstonians reconnect with one another and develop the skills needed for more constructive personal and civic conversations. Event Details Date: Wednesday, January 14, 2026 Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM Location: IM Houston – Great Hall, 3303 Main Street, Houston Format: Structured, facilitated dialogue in small groups with trained, neutral moderators Hospitality: Coffee and pastries provided Admission: Free and free parking in the building w/ security onsite Topics: Option 1: Unauthorized Immigrants and Deportation Option 2: Police Traffic Stops—Weighing Safety, Fairness, and Effectiveness Option 3: Either topic/No preference Hosts & Partners Grounds for Dialogue is co-hosted by Chief of Staff Leah Wolfthal, Houston City Council Member Julian Ramirez, and Houston City Council Member Sallie Alcorn, in collaboration with Braver Angels and IM Houston. Participants of all viewpoints are welcome. *Tickets are Free. Use promo code BRAVER during registration to get a free ticket. Questions? Contact Rodrigo Martins Rodrigo.Martins@houstontx.gov or 832.393.3350, G. Leigh Anderson ganderson@braverangels.org or 713.962.0895 ** This event is open to the media upon approval. Send requests to press@braverangels.org
