Discussing Politics Around the Thanksgiving Table

This political season has been fraught with heated political disputes. Traditionally, it has always been distasteful to discuss certain topics such as politics, religion and personal finances. One out of three is still off the table (finances) but there is some merit to being able to have a civil conversation around politics and opposing beliefs. With Thanksgiving in a couple of weeks, it’s all about how you handle the discussion during the family meal, regardless of who you wanted to win the presidential election. Remember, there will be all ages gathered together and it’s the perfect time to lead by example.

Skip the Outburst

Even when people agree with you on your position, if you are seen as “tyrannical” or it looks as if you are going “off the rails,” you lose your credibility. This goes for both social media rants and one-sided discussion with others when it comes to politics. Keep your tone of voice neutral and talk calmly, rather than preach. Sit down to the table and go into the conversation thinking that everyone has something valuable to offer. Stay on the topic a short time because there are many more things to talk about during the holiday meal, even if it is how much gravy to add to the mashed potatoes.

Listen  and Respond with Respect

The ability to respectfully discuss difficult subjects and opposing viewpoints is an art that can be perfected. Whether you initiate it or not, entering into a conversation with name-calling and spewing venom will immediately incite others to put up their guard. It will shut the conversation down or ignite the flame and a thoughtful exchange will be halted. When you listen to someone else’s views, you may learn something new or at least understand why they feel a particular way. Friends and family come together with varying viewpoints. If all relationships were exactly alike, life would be boring. Understand how we treat each other will last far longer than the most current political climate.

Avoid Sending Links and Articles

Sending a barrage of YouTube videos or the latest news links about the current political situation will not alter their personal opinions about their own political beliefs. It’s similar to talking about someone’s favorite pet. You won’t change anyone’s mind and probably will undermine a friendship or damage a family bond. The votes have been counted and continuing to complain rather than move forward is counterproductive. Feel free to let your family member know you are letting this conversation rest to enjoy Thanksgiving dinner.

Friends and Family First

We choose to be around those we love. We should be comfortable sharing personal feelings but also put relationships at the top of our list. Knowing other people’s comfort level and speaking our own mind with courtesy and consideration is a delicate art form. Learning how to balance these together is something we must be aware of when we get together. This also applies to business relationships. Polite political conversation can be achieved when we make an effort to keep our opinions respectful and civil. 

You may also like How to Avoid Political Drama at the Holiday Table. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips read her posts on Inc., subscribe to her articles on The Huffington Post, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest,  Instagram and Twitter.