Talking Politics at the Holidays: Why and How

By Jen Nossokoff

As you gather together with family and friends in celebration over the winter holidays, you may find that with the excitement and joy comes a backdrop of political polarization. This might look like being on outright opposite ends of the political spectrum, somewhere in between, or it can also look like apathy or indifference. Wherever you celebrate, and whoever you are with, you may have the desire to connect with them and move the needle on issues that are near and dear to your heart. Regardless of the exact situation, there are a lot of good reasons to bring politics into the conversations around the holidays and it’s important to do our best to make sure those conversations go well. 

With a focus on reflection, gratitude and reconnection, the holidays make a perfect time to delve into political conversations with family and friends. Engaging in political conversations is a vital part of a democratic society in that it helps ensure that individuals remain well informed about the issues shaping their community, country and the global landscape. The more informed people are, the more empowered they are to make informed decisions when voting for representatives who align with their values. This will be especially important for the upcoming elections in 2024. Beyond personal empowerment, political discussions foster civic participation, encouraging individuals to actively engage in various civic activities, such as volunteering, advocating for change and contributing to the democratic process. All good things!

Moreover, political discourse upholds democratic values such as free speech, the exchange of ideas, and the right to dissent. It serves as a platform for identifying societal problems and collaboratively developing solutions, contributing to a collective sense of responsibility for the well-being of society. Political conversations also play a vital role in building social awareness, shedding light on issues related to justice, equality and human rights. By creating a path for empathy through understanding different perspectives, political discussions contribute to the creation of a more compassionate society, where diverse opinions and backgrounds are valued and appreciated. Ultimately, these conversations not only impact policy decisions but also play a crucial role in shaping a well-informed, critically thinking and engaged citizenry that actively participates in the democratic process, holding leaders accountable and contributing to the ongoing progress of society.

Putting political discourse in action takes skill and practice. Here is a list of my favorite tips for how to have difficult conversations in a way that is healthy, productive and in service of maintaining relationships. 

Approach with Empathy:

Begin the conversation with an open heart and a genuine desire to understand the perspectives of others. Recognize that people come to their beliefs through a variety of experiences and values. Approach the conversation with curiosity rather than judgment.

Active Listening:

Truly listening to the perspectives of others is a cornerstone of productive political discussions. Instead of formulating your response while the other person is speaking, focus on understanding their point of view. Ask clarifying questions to ensure you grasp their perspective accurately.

Choose the Right Time and Place:

Timing is crucial when broaching sensitive topics. Consider discussing politics in a relaxed setting, perhaps after a meal when everyone is comfortable. Avoid heated moments or when emotions are already running high.

Set Ground Rules:

Establishing ground rules can create a framework for a more constructive conversation. Agree to avoid personal attacks, name-calling, or raising voices. Emphasize the importance of maintaining a respectful and open-minded atmosphere.

Focus on Policies, Not Personalities:

Redirect the conversation away from personal attacks or character judgments. Instead, focus on the policies or issues at hand. This helps depersonalize the discussion and keeps the conversation centered on ideas rather than individuals.

Find Common Ground:

Despite differing political views, there are often areas of agreement. Seek out common ground to build upon. Finding shared values or goals can help create a foundation for understanding, even if opinions on specific policies diverge.

Know When to Take a Break:

If the conversation becomes too heated or emotions run high, it’s OK to take a break. Stepping away can provide an opportunity for everyone to cool down and reflect before continuing the conversation.

Ultimately, be kind to yourself if situations don’t unfold perfectly. View each conversation as an opportunity for mutual learning. It’s important to anticipate flawed discussions at times, especially when tackling significant topics. However, persistence is key; don’t be discouraged and don’t give up. With consistent practice of these strategies, the process becomes more manageable and there is greater potential for constructive dialogue. And remember the value and importance of having political conversations for building a more connected society. 

With that, have an engaging and happy holidays!

(This list was curated and edited by me with the help of AI.) 

Jen Nossokoff is a District supervisor candidate and passionate advocate for District 1. She is a public school parent and Board Certified Physician Assistant. To learn more about Jen’s vision for the neighborhood, visit Jen2024.vote or email hello@jennossokoff.com to start a conversation.