We talk about diversity a lot in the nonprofit sector, for good reason. Our society has an uneven power structure that contradicts some founding principles. The imbalance is often expressed as racial injustice, which is a big part of it. Less commonly, these days, we may talk about gender or age diversity. In geeky management trainings, I sometimes hear groups discuss diversity of personality types and work styles. All those dimensions are important. So is the one that few people are comfortable talking about. It’s summarized nicely by this map (click on the image below to find an interactive tool):
This, of course, is the 2020 U.S. election map by precinct. It shows the red/blue divide, the deep split that exists within and between communities and, often, neighbors. The map shows a sharp contrast in worldviews and illustrates a very basic communication gap. There are two worlds living side by side and increasingly unable to talk to one another. I wrote about this after the 2016 election and wondered if nonprofits, in their roles as community-builders, could help bridge the gap. I still wonder that. But now, it’s gotten even wider. And it’s not just in the U.S., by any stretch.
Much has been written about the differences between red and blue voters. Almost nothing’s been written about how to bridge the gap. On some issues—climate crisis, public health measures, election fraud—there’s literally no middle ground. How do you have a conversation about the divide, involving both sides?
The diversity discussion we’re increasingly comfortable having is about racial disparities and justice. That’s a huge positive step after decades of stagnation. The red/blue divide, which just led to the first invasion of the U.S. Capitol since 1812, is partly about race, but the largest groups on both sides are white. The gap isn’t as easy to summarize; it’s a hybrid of cultural, economic, class and racial issues, with the one common thread being that the two camps don’t communicate in meaningful ways. The events of the past few months underline its urgency. The map again shows a crisis hiding in plain sight.
When the integrity of the entire democratic system is endangered, we can’t keep kicking the can down the road. It’s time to start having the hardest conversations. Nonprofits are well positioned—as well as anyone—to fill this need.
What practices can you recommend from your experience? What theories do you have about what might work? Please comment here or email me, and I’ll share ideas in a future post.