SerpApi.Org
The Fourth of July has come and gone but Minnesota events are still happening to observe America's 250th anniversary.
There are community discussions, blending a deep look into the nation's founding with the shared values of residents. The Minnesota Humanities Center and partner organizations are crisscrossing the state with an initiative called "The Declaration of Independence and Liberty, Then and Now.”
Kevin Lindsey, CEO of the center, said the conversations involve a full reading of the document and comparing it with the Constitution. Lindsey noted it helps attendees gain perspective on the U.S. living up to its principles, even during turbulent times.
"This reminder of the difficulty of really grabbing hold of the American experiment and really breathing life into it does take work," Lindsey emphasized.
Moving forward, Lindsey feels the events can propel people to think about pushing for a more perfect union that truly serves the people. Organizers said the talks are grounded in curiosity and respect. The last event for this free summer series will be held on the evening of Aug. 13 in Moorhead.
The gatherings are co-led by the grassroots organization Braver Angels, which works to reduce polarization.
Chris Schoenherr, a moderator for the group, said the organization's involvement touches on the Braver Angels philosophy, which believes Americans generally want the same things when measuring quality of life. To get there, people have to see the value in others, even if they do not vote for the same party.
"We all believe and feel the way we do about a particular issue for a good reason, something that happened in our life (got us to that point)," Schoenherr pointed out. "Once you have heard their story, they're a human."
Schoenherr admitted there are still skeptics who feel "the other side" will not listen with respect in day-to-day conversations. Schoenherr stressed inviting people with strongly partisan views to events like these might open their eyes, even if it takes a while.
Lindsey added attendees are asked about the structures of government and whether there is still intentionality in fulfilling the nation's ideals. Lindsey noted there seems to be a general response: The will of the people is no longer a priority within powerful circles.
"There's really a need to recommit to the idea of really listening intently to what people want," Lindsey emphasized.
