Learning Across Differences Ideas Forum - The Connection Opportunity

We begin our Learning Across Differences Ideas Forum series on April 23. Join the Council, More in Common, and the Walmart Foundation for an in-depth discussion of new More in Common research entitled The Connection Opportunity: Insights for Bringing Americans Together Across Difference. The report explores questions related to social connection and offers actionable insights for how philanthropy can play a pivotal role in rebuilding the connections that sustain a thriving, pluralistic society. 

Research shows that social connection isn’t just important for individual well-being– it’s also essential to societal and democratic health as well. Yet, these days, Americans are increasingly disconnected and divided, reporting record high levels of loneliness and also distrust in both institutions and each other. One solution to this problem is getting Americans to reconnect with one another, especially across lines of difference. But do they want to? Do they value connecting with those who have different backgrounds and beliefs? And if so, what’s preventing them from forging those ties?