Research shows the American public has grown more polarized along partisan lines in the last two decades.
Recently, Colorado Matters began a series called "Breaking Bread." We gather people of different political stripes around a dinner table to see if they can find common ground.
Here are some other efforts underway in Colorado and across the country that try to build bridges:
- The 5280 Table: is an Aug. 10 event in Denver's City Park where people will dine along a mile-long table. The goal is to "encourage connectedness at a time when we need more openness, understanding and kindness between neighbors."
- Bridge USA/Bridge CU works with University of Colorado students to bridge the gap between political parties.
- Living Room Conversations encourages people to host small gatherings of people wth different views.
- Make American Dinner Again organizes dinners for people with different political viewpoints.
- Mediators Foundation has a goal to promote bridge-building initiatives that advance peace, justice and sustainability.
- The Centrist Project encourages centrist policies and encourages more independent candidates to run.
- AllSides.com provides multiple sides on news stories to give people a "fuller picture."
- National Institute of Civil Discourse supports elected officials who work collaboratively.