DENVER - Earlier this week Colorado Governor Jared Polis hosted “Repairing the Breach In a Time of Political Polarization" an event put on as part of the National Governor’s Association Disagree Better Initiative to help bridge the divide in American politics. Governor Polis was joined by former Governor Bill Owens and Tim Shriver, CEO of the Special Olympics and co-creator of The Dignity Index, to discuss how individuals can disagree better with respect and build a greater sense of belonging for all Americans. 

“As public leaders, we have a responsibility to lead with dignity and respect. Research shows that when political leaders stand together publicly and commit to constructively addressing our differences, we can have a depolarizing impact,” said Governor Polis. 

“It’s not our disagreements that cause our divisions,” said Tim Shriver. “It’s treating each other with contempt when we disagree. Luckily, when contempt drives us apart, treating each other with dignity can bring us back together – and that gives all of us a role to play in our healing.” 

They were joined by former media editor and academic leader Paul Edwards of the Wheatley Institute and a panel of religious leaders including Rabbi Emily Hyatt of Temple Emanuel, Dave Runyon from CityUnite, and Ms. Shara Smith of the Interfaith Alliance of Colorado. 

“We are people of faith and despite our theological differences, many of our faith traditions share grounding values of love for our fellow human beings and respect for all people's inherent dignity,” said Rabbi Emily Hyatt. 

The event was supported by the National Institute for Civil Discourse, the Wheatley Institute, and One American Movement. The event provided individuals with the language and tools to have health disagreements across differences and help bridge divides in America.