Politics and religion aren't off-limits here

Fall Membership Drive: At Crosscut's dinner table, politics and religion are not taboo, frowned upon or closed for debate.
Crosscut archive image.

Jordan Royer

Fall Membership Drive: At Crosscut's dinner table, politics and religion are not taboo, frowned upon or closed for debate.

I grew up in a family that discussed politics and religion at the dinner table. I was never told that it was impolite to do so. This has led to some tense moments later in life at other tables. But not at the Crosscut table. Here we get a banquet of ideas and perspectives and a steady give and take in a mostly respectful and informed atmosphere.

There are not many places to find this kind of a dinner table acceptance, virtual or otherwise.

In my career, I have worked in government and the private sector, with Republicans, Democrats, Independents, and people essentially outside of the political system. In all of these perspectives, there is a truth to be discovered and encouraged. None of us have all the answers, and only through questioning can we draw each other out of our intellectual comfort zones and discover new things, topics, and ideas.

Crosscut is one of those places where it is safe to question each other, to discuss religion and politics, and not be considered rude for doing so. In our sometimes polarized world where blogs and news outlets tend toward hyper-confirmation of existing views and rigid ideology, it’s nice to have place to have a productive argument. As a writer, I always learn from the comments I receive and am appreciative of the substantive criticism, even when I don’t agree with it!

So pull up a chair, there’s room at the table for everyone. Support Crosscut.

Become a Member!

Start or renew your Crosscut membership online today. Or call (206) 382-6137 during normal business hours.

Either way, you'll be entered to win today's daily prize: A pair of tickets to SAL's Louise Erdrich lecture, Oct 15 at UW's Meany Hall. Congratulations to Wednesday's winners, Bob and Bev Corwin of Seattle, who won a $25 gift certificate to Ivar's restaurant, and Charles Davis of Seattle, who won a pair of tickets to "Igudesman & Joo: A LIttle Nightmare Music" at Town Hall on Nov 5. Thanks to Charles and the Corwins for their support! 

All members who start or renew their membership during our fall campaign will also be entered to win a Kindle Fire. Sign Up Now!

  

Please support independent local news for all.

We rely on donations from readers like you to sustain Crosscut's in-depth reporting on issues critical to the PNW.

Donate

About the Authors & Contributors

Jordan Royer

Jordan Royer

Jordan Royer is the vice president for external affairs in the Seattle office of the Pacific Merchant Shipping Association.