NC Leaders Bridge Political Divides Through Dialogue Programs

The North Carolina Leadership Forum at Duke University brings together leaders from different political parties, businesses, and nonprofits to have respectful conversations about important issues. Since 2017, over 125 leaders have participated in this program that teaches people how to work together even when they disagree. The program has helped leaders collaborate on issues like early childhood care, COVID-19 response, gun policy, and teacher support.

Participants learn skills for having difficult conversations, finding common ground, and building trust across party lines. The forum has produced webinars, reports, and articles about their work. Many program graduates have been elected to public office and continue using these bridge-building skills in their leadership roles.

The program shows that even in polarized times, leaders can work together constructively when they commit to civil dialogue and understanding different perspectives.