The Listen First Project studied how Americans feel about political division and what might bring us together. They found that 86% of Americans feel exhausted by division in our country. Most people (79%) would help reduce social division if given the chance.
The research shows three messages work best to get people interested in bridging divides: fighting back against media that divides us, remembering we're all Americans, and finding ways forward together despite differences. The study found that Republicans are less sure about joining bridging efforts (32% definitely would) compared to 47% of all Americans. People want opportunities to talk across differences if they'll be listened to respectfully.
The research helps organizations know how to invite people from different backgrounds and beliefs to work together. This data-driven approach is crucial because the very problem of polarization makes it harder to get people together to solve it. The project continues expanding research to help movement leaders create more effective outreach and build trust across political divides.