Members of the Braver Angels New York Alliance joined CEO Maury Giles at Via Brasil in Midtown for a wonderful dinner full of hearty laughs, political conversation, and organizational updates. With the National Convention imminent, volunteers and staff discussed their thoughts, hopes, and recommendations for what we plan to be a momentous gathering of individuals across the country who believe in the call to action that is the 250th birthday of our nation. 

The Community Forum on Immigration brought together neighbors, educators, students, and community members from across the political spectrum for an evening centered on curiosity, honesty, and human connection. Hosted as part of the Citizens Commission on Immigration initiative, the 90-minute forum created space for participants to move beyond political talking points and engage with the personal realities of immigration in America today.

The evening began with reflections from pre-selected panelists, whose stories highlighted the many ways immigration shapes communities, identities, and opportunities. Some shared family histories of immigration, while others reflected on experiences with citizenship, language barriers, cultural transitions, and the economic and social impacts immigration has had on their communities. Participants listened closely as stories of hardship, resilience, gratitude, and hope unfolded across the room.

Following the panel, attendees engaged in facilitated dialogue, discussing policies they support and reflecting on how their values and experiences shape their perspectives on immigration. Participants also had the opportunity to ask questions and explore actionable policy ideas in a respectful, community-centered setting.

Despite moments of ideological tension, the event fostered openness, goodwill, and meaningful conversation. Strangers found common ground through shared concerns about family, work, safety, belonging, and opportunity. While attendees did not leave in complete agreement, many expressed appreciation for a space where nuanced conversations could happen without hostility or judgment.

A special thanks to our moderator Deborah Knox and to Fourth Universalist Church for welcoming us into their space. Additional thanks to all volunteers and Alliance members who helped plan and facilitate this event!

Macaulay Honors College - 35 W 67th St, New York, NY 10023

The discussion of Beyond the Politics of Contempt brought together approximately 40–45 community members for an engaging evening on political polarization, civic trust, and constructive dialogue. Featuring authors Beth Malow, Doug Teschner, and Beck Robinson, the event included an author interview, reflections from NYC Blue Co-Chair Joey McFadden about the Alliance, audience Q&A, and breakout discussions in pairs.

Participants explored practical ways to disagree more constructively while sharing personal experiences navigating political differences. Despite varied viewpoints, the atmosphere remained respectful and welcoming, reflecting Braver Angels’ mission of fostering empathy, civic trust, and meaningful dialogue across political divides.