Choosing Connection Over Violence
Powerlessness is a paralyzing feeling. With the assassination of Charlie Kirk – as with the assassination of Melissa Hortman before him – many Americans feel powerless before the threat of violence. So too do many Americans feel powerless to defend their civil liberties. You do not have to agree with these fears to know that in this moment, all of us fear something.
US Chamber of Connection
The Chamber of Connection is a nonpartisan initiative working to transform the culture of politics by strengthening human relationships among elected leaders. With a focus on curiosity, connection, and collaboration, the Chamber brings together state legislators—across party lines—to build trust, reduce polarization, and develop the skills needed to govern with integrity and empathy.
Houston in Action
The Houston in Action member organization network operates on the belief that we can do greater things together than we can apart and that the more influence our communities have over the systems and services that are meant to support us, the better able we are to lead the lives we want to live.
Research: Hidden Tribes – A Study of America's Polarized Landscape
The biggest insight? Most Americans—what the researchers call the “Exhausted Majority”—feel alienated by partisan combat. They’re tired of being forced to choose sides. They want leaders who listen, policies that unite, and conversations that matter.
At The Change Lab, this research affirms our belief that connection is still possible, and that the majority of Americans are looking for a way forward—together.