About Braver Angels

Welcome!

Braver Angels is a nation-wide movement bringing Americans together to preserve what makes our nation strong. We work in communities, institutions, and around kitchen tables, rooted in the belief that respect and courage can heal our divides through the Braver Angels Way. Whatever your values, background, or schedule, there’s a place here for you. Join us in restoring civic trust. Learn more about the national organization on the Braver Angels website.

Here in Benton and Linn Counties, the Braver Angels Mid-Willamette Valley Alliance is working in our local communities by holding workshops, debates, and public presentations designed to bridge the polarizing political divide we experience in our country. These events allow liberals and conservatives to get past the destructive stereotypes so we can have civil conversations about real issues that lead to productive problem-solving. Find out what's happening locally at our alliance website.

Our Approach

• As individuals, we try to understand the other side's point of view, even if we do not 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.

The Braver Angels Rule

We’re guided by the rule that Red and Blue leaders are equally represented at every level of organizational guidance. Our members range from working class to affluent and come from many backgrounds. Our constant striving is to be an organization reflective of the country we seek to serve.

The Braver Angels Way

• We state our views freely and fully, without fear.

• We treat people who disagree with us with honesty, dignity and respect.

• We welcome opportunities to engage those with whom we disagree.

• We believe all of us have blind spots and none of us are not worth talking to.

• We seek to disagree accurately, avoiding exaggeration and stereotypes.

• We look for common ground where it exists and, if possible, find ways to work together.

• We believe that, in disagreements, both sides share and learn.

• In Braver Angels, neither side is teaching the other or giving feedback on how to think or say things differently.