All year, the Florida League is leading a new program called “Bringing Floridians Together,” designed to improve Florida’s civic health and bridge political divides.
The program will promote neighborhood and community connections, encourage respect and mutual understanding across ideological divides, and build a network of skilled facilitators to support peaceful conflict resolution and civic engagement.
Several Broward League members have participated in these programs.
Ana Segura, a director of the Broward League, said: “The one idea that stuck in my mind is that when talking to people with different political views, to establish, trust it’s best just to be curious as to what is important to them in their daily lives. What worries them? Schools, economy, the environment? Stay away from talking about politics and the elections. No judgment, no preaching as to your values, no criticisms for past election, no blaming.
“If you find a shared value (e.g. schools,) then you may be able to discuss how to collaborate to develop together a plan of action to address the issues,” she added.
Ricki Witte, a life member of the League, has been participating and said she did so because “talking to the choir doesn't move the ball.” Ricki hopes there will be some role-playing exercises so she can find ways to “talk about the importance of defending democracy” to voters of all political persuasions.
For those of you who would like to brush up your facilitation skills, the Florida League encourages you to sign up for a free training series designed for anyone who's interested in the art of civic mediation, facilitation, and bridge building. Here's the link to sign up for the full series: https://forms.gle/sHrGH3CgBpjTreWS8
While the program has started, it will continue all year and members are encouraged to participate.
The League is also participating in the National Week of Conversation April 6-12, 2026.