‘Better Angels: Reuniting America’ movie, workshop at Fairfield library

So many Americans have become alarmed about the political antagonisms splintering the nation to the point that a grass-roots movement has formed to bridge the widening gulf between 'Reds” and 'Blues.” Called 'Better Angels,” this movement is dedicated to bringing together people with differing views to listen and learn from one another and have civil conversations again.

A new documentary about this national movement, 'Better Angels: Reuniting America,” has just been released. Directed by Emmy-winner Jim Brown and produced by Peter Yarrow of the legendary Peter, Paul, and Mary trio, the film is currently showing across the country.

The Fairfield Public Library is sponsoring a showing of the film at 7:30 p.m. Thursday in its meeting room. Joe and Julie Mandarino, local Better Angels moderators, will be hosting the documentary and will lead a discussion about it afterward.

'Better Angels: Reuniting America” follows eight Democrats and seven Republicans as they move through the Better Angels signature 'Red/Blue” workshop, from initial skepticism to more profound understanding and empathy for people holding opposing views.

The documentary gives an inside look at how one Democrat voter shifted from cutting off relations with Trump voters to becoming dear friends with one. It also shows how a Republican voter moves from disdaining progressives to taking co-leadership with one in the Better Angels movement. Of particular note is that the participants don't change their own views; they simply open their minds to respecting other people who express differing views.

No registration is required for this free event.

For more information, contact Joe and Julie Mandarino at BetterAngelsIowa@gmail.com.