The Bridging for Democracy project shows how people from different political backgrounds can work together to solve community problems. Led by UC Berkeley's Othering and Belonging Institute and the Workers Center for Racial Justice, this research tested new ways to bring people together across divides. The project used two main approaches: trained organizers had deep conversations with people who disagree politically, focusing on shared concerns rather than arguments, and structured community dialogues brought different groups together to find common ground on local issues.
In 2024, they tested these methods in six states with five partner organizations including Make the Road Nevada, Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, MOSES Michigan, and OCCCO Orange County. The research found that 'long bridging' helps create stronger 'we' identities where people recognize their differences but also see their shared humanity and common future. This approach makes better organizers, expands what communities think is possible, helps develop stronger stories around shared concerns, and creates new ways to build support across traditional divides.
The project offers tools and research for communities wanting to bridge political differences while working toward democracy and justice.