There’s no way around it: We’re in historically chaotic times. Our sharply divided electorate reflects a nation at odds, and in the months ahead, this division is certain to fuel further political strife.
As citizens, what do we do? In past eras, we often counted on our elected leaders to build a workable American consensus, regardless of party, ideology, or issue; however, we expect that we Americans will enjoy no such luxury this time. Social media, news cycles, and public forums are flooded with provocative and polarizing narratives to amplify anxieties and heighten our divisions.
History shows us that in times of upheaval, society is not sustained by the loudest voices or the most reactionary minds; rather, the calm, resilient, and purposeful individuals are remembered for guiding us toward progress. Here’s why staying grounded in and for democracy matters more than ever — and how we can all strive to do just that.
1. Remember who we are.
Extraordinary times can call for extraordinary measures to protect what we hold dear. At the same time, we must never forget where we came from, all that we have endured, and what that has made us. At our core, Americans are a people grounded in the unwavering belief in justice and equality for all. The United States has been built on the promise of opportunity and freedom, which has inspired every generation through the centuries to strive toward that often-cited “more perfect union.”
This has never meant that we are flawless, of course – no, our proven strength comes from overcoming shared challenges, creating space for as many voices as possible, and ensuring that everyone has an opportunity and a role in shaping our shared future.
We can honor this legacy by doing more than wishing things were different. Now, we must focus our energy in resisting modern forces that seek to divide us. Unfortunately, we’re familiar with their tools – fear, disinformation, even hostility and outright violence. Instead, let’s meet one another with empathy, the radical notion that those who differ from us are fellow Americans with shared hopes and dreams. By staying true to our highest principles — love, truth, equality, and justice — we can hold together. We can rise above the turmoil. We can show the world and each other that we are not willing to be reduced to our weaponized caricatures. And we can show that we are still a country of courage, common sense, and compassion.
This is who we are. This is what will guide us through.
2. Choose action over outrage.
Our shared culture is on fast-forward, not always in a good way. This era, especially its communications technology, allows and even encourages quick reactions, hot takes, and angry outbursts. Social media and constant news cycles reward impulsive, emotional responses that escalate tensions rather than resolve them.
There is time and space for outrage in the face of injustice. But anger and division cannot be our only responses. Our challenge is to channel our energies toward constructive action that builds rather than tears down.
Instead of allowing ourselves to be caught in a tractor beam of drama and vitriol, we can take purposeful action that makes a tangible difference. We all have time, talent, and treasure to share – we can register voters, join community organizations, advocate for issues that matter to us, and support leaders, elected or otherwise, who advocate for and act to promote inclusion, civility, and understanding.
No one suggests unilateral disarmament and surrender in the face of threats to our democratic way of life. But we must participate more in solutions, consume problems less, and cease regurgitating so much anger.
3. Connect, connect, connect.
Political turmoil can leave us feeling isolated and alone, as though the divisions around us are insurmountable. The antidote to this toxin is building connections with others — whether they share our views or not. Connection helps us feel anchored. It reminds us that, at our core, we are all part of the same community, state, nation, and world.
When we connect, we’re reminded of the humanity behind each perspective and create spaces where collaboration is possible. This, in turn, builds a community that can withstand challenges, adapt to change, and support each other through times of unrest. Civic Nebraska fosters opportunities for Nebraskans to come together and engage in civil discourse, learning to listen, share, and understand in ways that strengthen our democratic foundations. Here are some of our resources.
4. Find peace through action.
Feeling overwhelmed by the issues we face — many of which feel far beyond our control – is a perfectly normal reaction to chaotic times. While we can’t control everything, we can control our responses, actions, and attitudes. Instead of trying and failing to change the world overnight, we can focus on making a difference in our spheres of influence.
Small actions, whether volunteering, mentoring, advocating, or simply engaging in respectful conversations, add up over time. At Civic Nebraska, we believe that collective action on the local level has the power to ripple outward and create broader change. By focusing on what we can do here and now, we find serenity in meaningful work that fosters positive outcomes for ourselves, our communities, and our state.
5. Be recklessly empathetic and kind.
We’re coming off an unprecedentedly damaging, unpredictable election season. It can be easy to continue dismissing and demonizing those with whom we disagree, deepening what feels like an endless cycle of injury and retribution. Those who benefit from a divided American people hope we do exactly that.
Instead, let’s approach one another with the knowledge that everyone has a unique story, perspective, and set of challenges that make them who they are. Approaching others with genuine consideration rather than reflexive prejudice — Jason Sudeikis’ famous soccer coach would say Be curious, not judgmental — builds trust. And that builds respect, which builds understanding, which leads to cooperation.
We are all human, and our humanity is our ace in the hole: Our ability to connect, with clear heads and on a human level even in the face of disagreement, is an ancient, powerful asset that has made America the greatest experiment in self-government in the world’s history. Now more than ever, it’s time to use it.
6. Keep calm and carry on.
Civic Nebraska pledges to be a source of stability and resilience. Like you, we know democracy thrives not on division but on consensus and collaboration; it is powered not by anger but with purpose and participation, and it is sustained not by bitterness but by hope and optimism. Our commitment — today and tomorrow, as it always has been — is to empower Nebraskans to stay engaged, to build communities that value inclusion and civil discourse, and to create a future where everyone has a voice.
The work begins now. Let’s go.
