What They Found

Democrats think 47 percent of Republicans support violence against Democrats. But only 13 percent really do. Even more striking: only 3.5% of Democrats and 2.4% of Republicans support throwing rocks at opposing protestors, yet 40% from both parties think the other side would support this - a ten-fold exaggeration. Social media makes this worse by amplifying extreme voices. Meanwhile, 85% of Republicans and 89% of Democrats believe in unconditional free speech, but each side thinks only about half the other party believes this. This creates dangerous cycles where people respond to imaginary threats.

Highlights

Why it matters: Youth report widespread climate distress; higher severe‑weather exposure aligns with stronger distress and desire for action. Use this to normalize feelings, add supports, and create constructive action pathways.

Use in programs: Pair discussions about emotions with coping tools and a short local action step; invite cross‑viewpoint dialogue to reduce polarization.

A simple act to strengthen civic life

What we learned from our neighborhood gathering experiment in Charlottesville – and how you can host a gathering of your own through our new $50 microgrant

Connective Tissue

 and 

Sam Pressler

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Texas leaders approved steps that can reduce food insecurity and improve access to care. The state budget funds critical upgrades to the eligibility and enrollment system, HB 4226 makes it cheaper for food banks to operate trucks, and HB 26 authorizes “Food Is Medicine” supports—including a pilot for pregnant Texans. Together, these moves can help families get support faster and keep more healthy food moving to neighbors in need.

This Mind & Life article introduces a study led by social psychologist Rémi Thériault (NYU). The idea is simple: reading clear, thoughtful nonfiction for about 10 minutes a day may help people understand others and work well together. Participants read for 10 weeks. The team looks at changes in care for others, how we speak with people who see things differently, and whether readers feel more connected. Books are picked for easy reading and helpful themes, using both expert review and AI tools. Earlier work from the team suggests that reading plus reflection can be a welcoming first step. The public is invited to suggest book titles for future rounds.

Summary

During an era of exclusion and housing discrimination, a Black couple welcomed a Chinese immigrant family as renters. Eighty-five years later, that family has publicly honored the couple’s courage and kindness—an act of remembrance that highlights shared struggles and the power of cross-racial solidarity. The story underscores how everyday choices—like opening your door—can ripple across generations.

Summary

This Yale SPH Q&A explains how alcohol contributes to cancer risk and why U.S. leaders are exploring updated warning labels. Dr. Vasilis Vasiliou highlights mechanisms (e.g., acetaldehyde, oxidative stress), dose–response effects, and the way alcohol amplifies other carcinogens such as tobacco smoke. Guidance includes: don’t start drinking for health reasons; if you drink, keep it modest and consider personal/family risk factors.

Why This Matters

This deep dive into the food security crisis exposes racial and income inequality in our region. Communities of color and low-income households bear the greatest burden, and entire neighborhoods—like Greenspoint—are on the brink.

The Democracy & Belonging Forum’s Network Catalyzers Program supports selected Forum members in launching and growing their own virtual or in-person communities related to othering, belonging, bridging, and democracy. 

These communities are entirely member-run, but are in part resourced, promoted, and supported by the Forum. In 2025, six communities (and seven catalyzers) were selected to participate, addressing topics as diverse as bridging in rural France, food insecurity in Texas, and intergenerational engagement among immigrant families. 

Three Essential Steps

• Create more opportunities for connection - Space must be intentionally created, like a garden, for relationships to take root and grow

• Focus on shared goals - Americans prefer working together toward common community objectives rather than just discussing their differences

• Build on success - Research shows that the more people connect across differences, the more likely they are to want to continue doing so