I’ve met Pearce Godwin a couple times at conferences and was on a webinar with him last week hosted by NCDD. He’s our nation’s leading expert in talking across divides, in my opinion.
He told us that if you are a political lefty and you want the attention of a righty, consider modifying your approach to match your audience. Many words and phrases are an instant turn off, whether they should be or not.
- Instead of diversity, say variety
- Instead of equity, say fairness
- Instead of inclusion, speak of welcoming and belonging
- Instead of justice, speak of fairness, and right and wrong
- Instead of marginalized, say mistreated or left out
Here’s an article in the Chronicle of Philanthropy called You Need Conservatives. Here’s How to Engage Them in Your Mission. It’s chock full of Pearce’s wisdom and practical tips.
I’d be interested in reading a similar article written by a conservative on how to talk to a liberal. What changes would they need to make in their language so that liberals are willing to listen to them?