Even in small-town communities like Reading, heightened political rhetoric can deepen divisions and strain community bonds. Labels like “racist,” “book banner,” “anti-LGBTQ,” “radical _____wing” (take your pick), “King,” “Woke,” or “Communist” may stem from strong convictions, but when used to characterize neighbors, they risk inflaming tensions and reducing people to caricatures. This kind of language creates mistrust and makes respectful dialogue more difficult, increasing the potential for conflict.
We’ve seen, at the national level, how such polarization has escalated, even in the face of deadly political violence affecting people across the spectrum. While we may not be able to change one another’s beliefs, we can choose to engage with civility, seek common ground, and preserve the bonds that make our community strong.
To move forward, communities must prioritize understanding over accusation. Having honest, respectful conversations—even when values differ—can build trust. By focusing on shared goals like safety and education, towns can strengthen unity. Coming together doesn’t mean full agreement, it means seeing each other as neighbors first.
Healing begins with a willingness to listen. Assuming the best in others creates the opportunity for cooperation over confrontation. Small towns thrive not through identical views, but through a shared sense of community rooted in mutual respect.
At the same time, it’s important to respectfully call out divisive rhetoric when it appears. This isn’t about silencing others, but about promoting civility. Speaking up against language that dehumanizes helps set an appropriate tone for disagreement. Addressing harmful rhetoric protects the character of a community and the safety of all residents. With an election just around the corner, when inflammatory language often increases, it’s especially important to promote understanding over division.
There is an event that has been publicized by the Reading Public Library entitled: “Learn to Disagree Better in Polarizing Times” – conducted by the nonprofit organization Braver Angels this Saturday, October 04: 1:00pm – 4:00pm. We don’t know exactly what this workshop is all about, but we wanted to call your attention to it.
It’s time we all take a step in the direction of understanding before it’s too late.
Until next time….