America’s greatest strength has always been its ability to unite people of different faiths, backgrounds, and viewpoints around shared democratic ideals. This keynote-style panel explores the constitutional principles, civic traditions, and historical examples that have made American pluralism possible, and why preserving them matters now more than ever. Through inspiring stories and practical insights, our fellows demonstrate how communities can transform diversity into one of our nation’s greatest assets. Ideal for government agencies, colleges and universities, businesses, and community organizations seeking a timely, hopeful, and unifying keynote.
The following topics are delivered by civic leaders representing diverse organizations and communities. Listed below are the titles of the various panel topics which ING offers along with a brief description. Panels are available in one-to-four-hour formats.
To schedule a panel, complete the form at the bottom of this page. Please allow two weeks’ advance notice for scheduling, and at least 60 minutes for a panel to allow time for questions and answers. If your request is less than two weeks away or if you have questions about our online scheduling system, please feel free to contact us at 408-296-7312 extension 160 or email [email protected].
American Pluralism in Practice: How Diverse Communities Strengthen Our Democracy
Bridging the Divide: How Americans Across the Spectrum Can Rebuild Civic Trust
Political polarization has weakened confidence in one another and in the institutions that sustain our democracy. Yet communities across the country are demonstrating that trust can be rebuilt. This panel presents a practical framework for engaging across political and ideological differences by focusing on shared civic values, mutual dignity, and our common future. Through compelling stories and proven practices, participants discover how dialogue can replace division without requiring anyone to abandon their convictions.
Understanding Our Neighbors: What Listening Across Political Difference Really Requires
Listening is not agreement, it is the foundation of a healthy democracy. This engaging session explores the habits and skills needed to build understanding across political differences, emphasizing curiosity over certainty, humility over assumptions, and relationship over rhetoric. Participants gain practical tools for fostering more productive conversations among conservative, MAGA-leaning, progressive, and politically independent communities in schools, workplaces, campuses, and civic organizations.
From Outrage to Outcomes: How to Talk About Religion, Race, and Politics Without Losing Our Common Ground
Some of today’s most important conversations are also the most difficult. This panel equips participants to engage challenging discussions about religion, race, politics, identity, and current events in ways that reduce polarization rather than deepen it. Our speakers offer practical strategies for de-escalating conflict, responding constructively to disagreement, and identifying common ground that can lead to meaningful action and stronger communities.
Pluralism Is Not Neutrality: How We Stand Firm on Values While Welcoming Disagreement
Pluralism does not ask us to compromise our beliefs. It asks us to engage one another with conviction, humility, and respect. This session examines how individuals and institutions can uphold deeply held values while creating environments where disagreement is welcomed rather than feared. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of principled pluralism and practical approaches for navigating controversy without sacrificing either integrity or inclusion.
Restoring the Civic Fabric: Faith-Informed Strategies for Healing a Divided Nation
At a time when many Americans are weary of political hostility and social fragmentation, our diverse religious and civic traditions offer enduring wisdom for rebuilding trust. Drawing on Jewish, Muslim, Christian, Buddhist, Hindu, and secular ethical perspectives, this panel explores the shared values of compassion, humility, service, responsibility, and neighborliness that strengthen both communities and democracy. Participants leave with practical ideas for cultivating civic belonging and fostering a culture where differences become opportunities for cooperation rather than division.
