Braver Angels: Southern Willamette Valley Alliance is a chapter of the National Braver Angels organization. We are working in our local community of Eugene, Springfield, and the surrounding areas of Lane County, to bring people of different political perspectives together for communication workshops, discussions, and public presentations designed to bridge the polarizing political divide we experience in our country. These events allow conservatives and liberals to move past the destructive stereotypes so we can better understand one another and problem-solve real issues. We hope you will join us!
Upcoming Events in 2026:
Sept. 24th, and every 4th Thursday of the month, 6 - 8 pm
Beyond Red & Blue: Practicing Better Conversations
Curious how people with different political views see the world? Join an engaging conversation across divides, using a surprise tool... This month’s theme: Having an open mind, avoiding exaggeration and stereotypes.
Location: Bethesda Lutheran Church, 4445 Royal Ave, Eugene. Register Here!
Oct. 13th, and every 2nd Tuesday of the month, 6 - 8 pm
The Oakshire “Talking Politics” Meetup
We will divide into pairs and have three 20-minute, topic-focused conversations, followed by unstructured social time. You will find your Braver Angels hosts at a table outside. 🌟New Sticker Incentive System!🌟We will invite you to give others a star sticker if you hear them ask a great curious question or demonstrate accurate understanding of your perspective. This will provide a little encouragement to break the habit of arguing and being defensive, and help us to stay focused on learning and connecting with others.
Location: Oakshire Public House, 207 Madison St, Eugene. Just show up.
Oct. 22nd, Thursday, 12 - 1:30 pm
Braver Angels Ladies Lunch Bunch
Reaching out to ladies to try out different venues together! By connecting over lunch, we are looking for a fun and lighthearted time of friendly sharing, the Braver Angels way!
Location: Blue Mist - 2840 Crescent Ave #300 · Eugene. Look for Dee and the Braver Angels sign.
Register on meetup.com (link coming soon!) or email dryan@braverangels.org (Lunch in Subject line) to confirm a reservation as space is limited to 10 people.
Oct. 22nd, Thursday, 6 - 8 pm
Pre-Election Anxiety Workshop with Barry Nobel and Lisa Dayton
It’s unlikely that political turmoil – or the anxiety associated with it – will disappear anytime soon. The practice of mindfulness – particularly in group settings – can strengthen our resolve to connect with ourselves and others, confront inner and outer conflict in a constructive fashion, and continue to take responsibility for having a positive impact on society.
This will be an experiential and interactive session to help empower our individual and collective lives, ground ourselves in a good place, and come together in the service of reconciliation and goodwill. Join us for this, and/or the previous workshop on Nov 12.
Location: Bethesda Lutheran Church, 4445 Royal Ave · Eugene. Register here!
Nov. 12th, Thursday, 6 - 8 pm
Post-Election Anxiety Workshop with Barry Nobel and Lisa Dayton
It’s unlikely that political turmoil – or the anxiety associated with it – will disappear anytime soon. The practice of mindfulness – particularly in group settings – can strengthen our resolve to connect with ourselves and others, confront inner and outer conflict in a constructive fashion, and continue to take responsibility for having a positive impact on society.
This will be an experiential and interactive session to help empower our individual and collective lives, ground ourselves in a good place, and come together in the service of reconciliation and goodwill. Join us for this, and/or the previous workshop on Oct 22.
Location: Bethesda Lutheran Church, 4445 Royal Ave · Eugene. Register here!
Nov. 20th, Thursday, 1:30 - 3 pm
Courageous Citizenship Engagement Meeting
Get engaged with us! We are seeking input about what to do and how you’d like to be involved. This is a great opportunity to learn about and feel more a part of the local team.
Location: McNail-Riley House, 601 W 13th Ave · Eugene. Register here!
Please Join Us!
