Upcoming Events

BA_Common-Ground_Workshop-Summary.pdf

Calendar of Alliance of Washtenaw County Events

Click here to add our calendar to your Google calendar.

Selected past events

Past Event: Discussion on "The Future of the American Presidency: How Should it Evolve?" on Tuesday, Feb 24, 2026

🤯 THIS is how we move forward! 🤯

Last Tuesday, I was blown away by the incredible citizens of Washtenaw County! We got together for a real conversation—not a partisan shouting match—about the most powerful office in the world: the Presidency. We dug deep into the Constitution, grappling with what the Founders intended for the Executive Branch and where the power truly lies. Forget the endless debates about specific leaders; this was about the office itself and charting a course for a stronger, more stable democracy.

In true Braver Angels fashion, we listened to each other—respectfully and curiously—even with wildly different points of view. The result? Thought-provoking ideas for Constitutional amendments to better define presidential power and balance the judiciary/congressional influences.

This is the work that changes the game. Less tribalism, more substance. Let's keep the conversation going!

Past Event: Skills for Disagreeing Better Workshop February 7, 2026, Ann Arbor District Library

We conducted a workshop at the Traverwood branch of the Ann Arbor District Library for a powerful afternoon of connection and skill-building. In a room filled with "Reds" (conservatives), "Blues" (liberals), and "Purples" (independents), we learned about each side’s core values and perspectives and worked to develop our LAPP skills through small-group exercises focused on:

Listening to understand the values behind a perspective
Acknowledging what you’ve heard to ensure the other person feels respected.
Pivoting to share your own viewpoint without demonizing the "other side"
Offering your own Perspective

The goal of our skill-building workshop was not to change minds, but to change how we treat each other. By learning to disagree respectfully beyond stereotypes, we take a step toward strengthening our connections and shared humanity.

Missed this session?

Don’t worry! The Washtenaw Alliance is committed to offering more free workshops in the coming months. We invite you to follow our calendar, our facebook, our instagram page, or email us at washtenaw-county-mi@braverangels.org to sign up for our newsletter to stay stay informed about upcoming opportunities to bridge the divide in our community.

Past Event: Skills for Disagreeing Better Workshop
January 25, 2026, Howell MI

We were thrilled to conduct a "Skills for Disagreeing Better" workshop for the League of Women Voters of Livingston County at the beautiful Howell Carnegie District Library. Despite the freezing temperatures, a hardy group showed up ready to bridge the political divide on Sunday, January 25, 2026.

Past Event: Family and Politics Workshop

November 16, 2025, Manchester, MI

Tired of politics ruining family time? There’s a fix!

We just wrapped up an incredible Braver Angels workshop, Family and Politics, that taught real, applicable skills for navigating those tricky political talks with loved ones. It’s not about changing minds; it’s about changing the conversation.

The work is happening, and these skills are vital for a healthy society (and healthier family get togethers!). Email us at washtenaw-county-mi@braverangels.org if you, your faith-based organization, or other group is interested in holding a workshop.

Past Event: a discussion on immigration.

October 16, 2025, Saline, MI

We had an engaging discussion in Saline on immigration. We were encouraged by our common compassion for the people involved. We were also humbled by the challenge of designing a system that actually works.

Past Event: Coliseum Debate - Who represents the working class?

May 18, 2025, Dearborn, MI

Harold Meyerson

Jason Krzysiak

Daniel McCarthy

Wilk Wilkinson

Who truly speaks for the working class? Is there hope that populism—of the right or the left—might truly serve this group that so often feels overlooked? What does this multifaceted group want, anyway?

We held a coliseum debate in person and live-streamed on YouTube (recording available). Our four panelists debated the possibility of political realignment and made the case for and against our resolution: Resolved - The Republican Party is the party of the working class.

Local attendees had the opportunity to connect with our speakers, our National Debate Team, Michigan Network and Washtenaw Alliance leaders and members, and others who care about working class politics and bridging political divides.

After the panel Q&A, we enjoyed a light reception of drinks and hors d’oeuvres.

Page updated

Report abuse