Braver Angels Minnesota

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Domestic politics taking on 'characteristics of war', former U of M professor says

Kare11 News, Sept. 10, 2025

"Charlie Kirk shooting prompts calls to address US political violence. Bill Doherty, co-founder of the nonpartisan nonprofit Braver Angels drew historical parallels to an earlier era of political violence."

"Doherty said addressing the nation's deep divisions requires collective responsibility. 'We've all contributed to this and we have to tobether find a way out of this toxic division we have.' "

Expert on civility in politics discusses moving forward after political violence: "We can survive this if we decide we've had enough."

WCCO News, Sept. 11, 2025
"In the aftermath of the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk that sent shock waves across the country, Bill Doherty is reflecting on how we got here as the country grapples with yet another act of political violence...We learned that when you create the right environment for people to listen to each other, express themselves in non-inflammatory ways, that people have more in common than they realize, and that they can lower the temperature and they can find common ground," Doherty said.

He said how we move forward starts with each of us condemning violent and extreme rhetoric when we see it, especially if it comes from individuals with whom you agree.

"We survived the Civil War. We survived the 60s. We can survive this if we decide we've had enough," he said. More...

Statement from National Braver Angels on the shooting death of Charlie Kirk

Sept. 10, 2025

Today has been a devastating day for our nation. There are no words for the loss of Charlie Kirk. Our hearts are with his family and loved ones.

It’s on each of us to stop this dangerous cycle of mutual destruction. No matter where we stand on the political spectrum, here’s what we must do in the wake of this tragedy:

The immediate priority is to not escalate an already precarious situation. Do not throw fuel on the fire through attacks and counterattacks over responsibility for this act of violence. We’ve gotten ourselves into a deep hole. The first thing we must do is stop digging.
Second, we must tone down the apocalyptic rhetoric that our democracy will not survive the leadership or ideology of any one side. When the survival of the American experiment is at stake, violence can seem justified and even heroic. We must believe in ourselves that we can hold onto our democratic republic even amidst profound disagreement.
Third, we must use this moment to soul-search what we’ve allowed to happen in our political culture, from the national to the local level, and in our families and friendships. Polarization is a “We the People” problem, not just a “those politicians” or “those talking heads” problem. We have a role to play.

For years, we’ve unleashed bitter contempt on our fellow Americans who think, speak and vote differently, creating a toxic cycle to which both sides contribute. Change begins with each of us examining how we see and think about those who hold views we believe are wrong. We must challenge the dominant cultural narrative that pits us in a war of good versus evil, tribe versus tribe. Then, we must demand the same of our leaders.

Together, we can define for this country what courageous citizenship means—modeling a constructive civic response that rebuilds trust and puts us on a path toward solving problems together. Now is the time. Our country depends on it.

Doherty, Thiemann: Let's approach the gun argument differently this time

St. Paul Pioneer Press op-ed, Sept. 4, 2025
"In the aftermath of horrific events like last week’s school killings, communities follow a sadly predictable pattern. First comes shock, grief, and denunciation of the shooter. Then, blame begins to spread — sometimes toward institutions such as schools or first responders, sometimes toward the shooter’s family or group affiliation. Before long, the public conversation hardens into bitter conflict over gun laws. That’s where we’ve landed within a week as the governor considers a special session of the Legislature."...

..."In Minnesota, Braver Angels held a Common Ground workshop that brought together advocates for more restrictive gun laws and staunch defenders of Second Amendment rights. Using a structured process — ground rules, trained moderators, and a focus on three domains (values, concerns, and solutions/policies) that required unanimous support — the group surprised even themselves: They reached agreement on 28 items." Here's the Points of Agreement.

We're NOT trying to change anyone's mind on issues, but we often DO change how we see each other.

In our current political climate, individuals with differing political viewpoints not only hold contrasting opinions on various matters but also exhibit a growing animosity toward one another. This discord is detrimental to our communities, our nation, and the well-being of our children. It is imperative that we rediscover the means to engage in respectful and civil discourse once more. If you're skeptical about the feasibility of this endeavor, we once shared your doubts as well.

Are you a Braver Angel?

As individuals, we try to understand the other side's point of view, even if we don't agree with it.

In our communities, we engage those we disagree with, looking for common ground and ways to work together.

In politics, we support principles that bring us together rather than divide us.

Join conservatives, liberals, libertarians, progressives, unafilliated and
independents working together to make a difference in Minnesota

Three ways to get started

Zoom Open House

Whether you're new to Minnesota Braver Angels or a longtime member, our monthly online Open House is a welcoming space to ask questions—especially ones you might hesitate to ask elsewhere.

The Minnesota Braver Angels state coordinators are here to listen, support you, and help find answers.

Come as you are—this is a casual, unscripted space for all Minnesota Braver Angels.

Visit Events to register.

Attend an event

We offer events in Minnesota to keep you engaged and connected. Whether you're looking for social gatherings to meet new Braver Angels, or discussion groups to exchange ideas, we got you! Plus, stay tuned as we continue to expand our event offerings to bring you even more opportunities.

You can also check out national online experience, such as debates, or set up a 1:1 conversation with some who holds a different viewpoint.

Take a free eCourse

Check out the free eCourses, on the national Braver Angels website, developed by experts in communications and depolarization. They run about 40 minutes, and provide an effective and safe way to interact with people in difficult situations. Topics include: Managing Difficult Conversations; Families & Politics; Skills for Bridging the Divide; and more.