November 19, 2024; Washington, D.C.— This week, NPR is featuring stories and conversations taking a closer look at how people across the country are finding common ground on important issues despite their differences. Seeking Common Ground: Conversations Across the Divide will include stories on broadcast shows, podcasts, and NPR.org.
Through collaboration with Member stations, public radio journalists spoke with Americans from all backgrounds about how they are working together to navigate ideological and political differences. The week will also feature stories sharing how universities and religious institutions are addressing these challenges, and even how neuroscience and psychology can offer strategies to help during conversations about conflicting viewpoints.
"The stories from Seeking Common Ground intentionally look at people who disagree, yet some are finding ways to have constructive dialogue," said Edith Chapin, NPR Senior Vice President, Editor in Chief and acting Chief Content Officer. "The series provides insight into the lives and beliefs of a broad range of communities where different viewpoints coexist."
Series stories are appearing on Morning Edition, Weekend Edition, All Things Considered, Weekend All Things Considered, the podcasts, Short Wave and UpFirst, and in the NPR newsletter. Some of the topics include:
- How Washington's lieutenant governor is working with a local university to improve debate and policymaking in a more civically healthy way
- Former Southern Baptist presidents doing racial reconciliation work in the deep South
- How community chorus members in rural Colorado are finding understanding through music despite their political and ideological differences
- Religious leaders in Louisiana bringing together people of faith to address community problems
- How a conservative radio host and liberal politician began a friendship beyond their opposing viewpoints
About NPR
NPR's rigorous reporting and unsurpassed storytelling connects with millions of Americans every day — on the air, online, and in person. NPR strives to create a more informed public — one challenged and invigorated by a deeper understanding and appreciation of events, ideas, and cultures. With a nationwide network of award-winning journalists and 16 international bureaus, NPR and its Member organizations are never far from where a story is unfolding. Listeners can find NPR by tuning in to their local Member stations (npr.org/stations), downloading the NPR App or asking Alexa to "Play NPR." The NPR mobile app brings together the best of the NPR Network from around the world and right in your community — live radio, podcasts, the latest local and national news and more — available wherever you are and whenever you want. Get more information at npr.org/about and by following NPR Extra on Facebook, LinkedIn, Threads, and Instagram.
Media contact:
Danielle Wilson, NPR, mediarelations@npr.org
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