Library to host civic engagement lecture series

The Albert Wisner Public Library, located at 1 McFarland Drive in Warwick, recently announced a series of talks and workshops designed to provide “a comprehensive understanding of how elections work, from registration to casting a ballot, and to equip you with the skills to discuss these topics with others.” Patrons will learn about the fundamentals of the voting process, the importance of civic engagement, and strategies for having constructive conversations about politics.

Below is a list of the upcoming talks to take place in the coming months.

Sept. 14: The Braver Angels approach to depolarization in the U.S.

Enjoy an informative film followed by a discussion on Saturday, September 14 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Are you dismayed by political division in America and interested in being part of the solution? Don’t despair. Come learn about Braver Angels, the nation’s largest cross-partisan, volunteer-led organization dedicated to bridging the partisan divide and to depolarizing American politics.

Bringing together Americans from across the political spectrum, Braver Angels teaches new ways to communicate, collaborate and engage in public life for the benefit of our communities and to strengthen our democratic republic. The short film “Crossing the Continental Divide: The Braver Angels Approach to Depolarization in the United States” will be shown, followed by discussion moderated by bipartisan representatives of Braver Angels. Light refreshments will be served.

Oct. 5: Skills for disagreeing better

This workshop helps participants learn how to understand the values and concerns of those who differ from them politically and teaches skills for communicating across differences and finding common ground. Light refreshments will be provided. This workshop will take place Saturday, October 5 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Nov. 9: Family and politics — How to talk with loved ones on the other side

Family relationships are becoming casualties of our toxic political environment. Family members are having nasty political arguments, avoiding each other, or even cutting off lifetime relationships. If you want to preserve important family bonds while still being true to your values and political beliefs, this workshop, slated for Saturday, November 9 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. is for you!