A new chapter of the national nonprofit Braver Angels officially formed in Riverside on July 12, bringing together residents committed to reducing political polarization through civil dialogue and community engagement.
Nine members attended the inaugural meeting at Crest Community Church and pledged to work together on the initiative, according to co-chair Chani Beeman. She and co-chair Rich Vandenberg will lead the alliance for its first year.
"Today we officially formed a Riverside Alliance for Braver Angels! We had 9 people show up and commit to working together on the effort," Beeman said. "We had several interested but unable to attend, so I think we are off to a strong start. Rich and I have committed to a year as the co-chairs."
Braver Angels, a national citizens' movement founded in 2016, works to bring Americans together across political divides through workshops, debates and community activities. The organization takes its name from Abraham Lincoln's first inaugural address appeal to "the better angels of our nature."
The Riverside Alliance plans to host events and activities designed to help community members engage constructively across political differences. The group builds on momentum from a successful workshop held in February at Hunt Park's Renck Community Center.
At that earlier workshop, Vandenberg emphasized the organization's core mission: "The goal of Braver Angels is not to change what people believe but to change how they see one another. We should passionately defend what we believe to be right and just, but true strength comes when we have the courage to listen to opposing perspectives."
Vandenberg and Beeman, who come from different political backgrounds, exemplify what's possible through this approach. They have built a strong relationship based on their shared love of Riverside.
Details about upcoming programs will be announced as the alliance develops its local initiatives.
More information: To learn more about the Riverside Alliance, visit their Facebook page or learn about the national organization at braverangels.org.
