E Pluribus Unum

Last week on Reimagining Us, we broke down toxic polarization: what it is, why it’s harmful, and how embracing pluralism can help bridge divides. This week, we’re taking it a step further. In Episode 3 of Reimagining Us, we sit down with social psychologist Peter T. Coleman and Director of Research for More in Common, Stephen Hawkins, to discuss what does “us vs. them” actually look like in our everyday lives. How does social segregation affect how we connect, thrive, and belong? How do we react to it? And how we can break free to create more connected communities? Listen to the latest episode now: https://lnkd.in/ehE4XdWY #ReimaginingUs #EPluribusUnum #Podcast #NextChapter #TogetherUpInsitute

I really appreciated the opportunity to catch up with Nichole Argo of the TogetherUp Institute and Scott Hutcheson of E Pluribus Unum on their terrific new podcast, "Reimagining Us." Their great questions took our conversation deep into the wicked problem of toxic polarization and how we can begin unwinding it.

Congratulations to our #UnumFellow Jenna Smith for being awarded the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship! 🎓 Among 865 applicants from across the country, Jenna, a senior at Duke University, is one of 32 recipients selected for this honor. From leading initiatives with the Duke Justice Project to advocating for systemic reform in the Mississippi Delta, Jenna exemplifies the power of equity-driven leadership. We're so proud of her achievements and can't wait to see the transformative work she continues to lead. Read more about Jenna's journey and her plans for the future here: https://bit.ly/41osPfS #EPULeadership #OurMany #DukeUniversity #RhodesScholarship #RhodesScholar

In #Texas, the fight over Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in higher education continues. Last year, lawmakers banned DEI initiatives at public colleges and universities, eliminating hundreds of programs and jobs in the process. Now, they’re aiming to expand this ban, threatening to strip even more educational content from classrooms. Lawmakers argue these programs don’t align with Texas' workforce needs, but many believe this is about suppressing inclusive perspectives and academic freedom. Students, faculty, and advocates are speaking out, emphasizing that DEI efforts foster a sense of belonging and open doors for historically marginalized groups. Read the full article here: https://bit.ly/3ZE1NQp #UnumReport #EducationEquity #DEIBan #EPluribusUnum

Did you know that 95% of the food we eat comes from soil? Yet, in many areas across the South, fertile land and access to fresh food are limited—leaving families to face the harsh realities of food deserts. This #WorldSoilDay, we’re spotlighting the incredible work of #UnumFellow and Executive Director of the Mississippi Delta Nature and Learning Center Amanda Delperdang. Through the Youth Growing Native Food Program, Amanda is empowering students in food deserts to cultivate a brighter future. Students learn hands-on how to grow local, natural foods while gaining a deeper understanding of the vital role soil plays in sustainable food systems. Learn more about this initiative and our inspiring Fellows on our website: https://bit.ly/3D44NN9 #EPULeadership #Foodinsecurity #UrbanFarming #EPluribusUnum

What exactly is toxic polarization? How does it shape our communities, our relationships, and even the way we see each other? In Episode 2 of Reimagining Us—"Us Vs. Them," we dive deep into this topic with guest and Executive Director of Lyceum Labs, Daniel Stid; exploring what toxic polarization is, why it matters, and—most importantly—how we can counter it with pluralism. Listen to Episode 2 now and join the conversation at https://lnkd.in/ehE4XdWY or find it on your favorite podcast platform. #ReimaginingUs #ToxicPolarization #Pluralism #DanielStid #EPluribusUnum #Podcast #NextChapter #TogetherUpInsitute

RESOURCE ALERT: A new podcast is available to help understand today's divisions, rebuild connection, and drive action - all critical elements of effective advocacy. These conversations between Nichole Argo of TogetherUp Institute and Scott Hutcheson of E Pluribus Unum dig into the causes of polarization and how to move forward together. We appreciate their focus on curiosity, respecting different points of view, and bringing folks to the table in service of finding solutions that work for everyone - all informed by research and data. (Did you know that one survey found a majority of people in the United States do NOT feel a sense of belonging in their local community? Hear more about 2022 survey, called the Belonging Barometer, 21 minutes into episode 1 and in the updated version here: https://lnkd.in/eFDaCWqU) Thanks to Next Chapter Podcasts and WGBH Radio and Television for presenting these important resources. #Advocacy #EffectiveCommunication #BridgingDivides #BuildingTrust #Podcast #ReimaginingUs #Belonging

Excited for this launch and sharing the experience with our Eminent Scholar Nichole Argo !

We were well-represented at the Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus retreat, where our Director of Government Relations, Kristal Swim, had the opportunity to share our mission of advancing equity across the South with fellow leaders. Our #UnumFellows and State Representatives Zakiya Summers and Christopher M. Bell, both serve as Chair members of the caucus and continue to lead with purpose in their roles. It was an important moment for collaboration, as we work together to address the pressing challenges facing our communities and move towards a more equitable future. #UnumJoy #OurMany #Mississippi #EPluribusUnum

When we truly listen and seek to understand, we can bridge divides and transform conflict into cooperation. The results of the recent #2024elections have left many Americans at a crossroads of deep divisions and the future of democracy. In our latest newsletter, Executive Director Scott Hutcheson reflects on this critical moment, exploring how genuine curiosity can transform divisions into opportunities for understanding and unity. This is the work we’re committed to as we build a more inclusive South and empower communities to thrive together. Visit our website to learn more about our mission and to subscribe to our newsletter to stay inspired by insights and collective action that makes a difference. https://bit.ly/3E12h7C #EPULeadership #OurMany #EPluribusUnum