Re: “In today’s world, we need real stories, not just facts” (Oct. 12, Opinion):
I recognize Danielle Lee Tomson’s Oct. 12 opinion argument that real-life tales can counter the simplistic, black-and-white narratives that always dominate our airwaves and social media.
In that spirit, the Workplace of the Secretary of State’s Civic Engagement Program launched the Civic Storytelling Challenge this yr to report, transcribe and share tales of Washingtonians’ civic participation, civic recollections and civic hopes. Up to now, we’ve gathered greater than 40 numerous tales: from farmworkers to army officers, youngster care suppliers to elected officers, college students to these incarcerated. These tales now form our civic workshops statewide, and 7 animated shorts primarily based on them are being launched on our Civic Storytelling YouTube web page.
However telling tales is simply half the work. We should additionally assist individuals study to pay attention — to not determine whether or not they agree, however to grasp and join. Our listening guides encourage audiences to acknowledge storytellers’ experiences and acknowledge shared values and struggles, giant and small.
Democracy depends upon these acts of consideration and connection. By listening deeply to 1 one other’s tales, we start to see the advanced, human cloth that holds our communities — and our democracy — collectively.
Michael Bowman, rural civic engagement specialist, Civic Engagement Program, Workplace of the Secretary of State, Olympia
