Learning Across Differences Ideas Forum - April

The Council on Foundation’s Learning Across Differences Ideas Forum, is a new quarterly virtual discussion series that highlights leading thinkers and their ideas for how we can come together, not apart. We begin our 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 that explores these questions 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?