I spent a day on the Nantahala River in Western North Carolina paddling icy whitewater with those whose political views differ from mine. Turns out we have more in common than we ever imagined.
The Nantahala is a favorite of rafting novices and paddling experts alike.
Their zeal is understandable considering the beauty of its rushing water winding through verdant mountains, casting beams of light and shadows that create a mystical tableau.
But man, is that water icy!
I paddled the Nantahala from the front of our raft, and though it was a warm, sunny day, each frothy rapid blasted me with “invigorating” waves, evoking my childlike shrieks of joy and shock.
When we weren’t navigating the more hectic stretches of the river, my fellow white water enthusiasts and I talked about our shared frustrations with American healthcare costs and insurance companies that seem more concerned with their bottom line than our well-being.
The juxtaposition of outdoor adventure with substantive discussion may seem at odds, though it’s what brought us all to the Nantahala.
A couple dozen others and I, from all walks of life and varying political backgrounds, recently took part in an ongoing national effort to narrow Americans’ political divides through outdoor activities.
RAFT for America (Reuniting America by Fostering Trust) is the brainchild of the founders of Team Democracy, which brings together people who differ politically to take part in group activities that foster trust and communication among those whose differing views often make conversation difficult.
I was in a boat with Democratic state lawmakers and Republican healthcare providers. We soon discovered we were all “paddling in the same direction,” sharing the belief that something must be done to rein in healthcare costs and insurance companies profiting from our ailments.
I was as refreshed, and at times shocked, by our shared sentiments as I was by the chilly water dousing me.
Team Democracy co-founder Ken Powley, a longtime rafting guide who created the organization after the Jan. 6 riot at the Capitol, speaks passionately about the restorative power of communal tasks and adventure when tackling the stubborn divides tearing America apart.
“Events like these show us what we are capable of. They remind us that what connects us is far greater than what separates us,” said Powley.
“And they chip away at the polarization that leaves us fearful of difficult conversations – with family members, neighbors, co-workers, and other acquaintances.”
Team Democracy is now expanding their purview for group activities to include October’s inaugural RIDE for America (Riders Inspiring Dialogue and Empathy) event, which brings together motorcyclists to discuss Democracy and trust in elections, a subject with immediate urgency ahead of the midterms.
As an avid motorcyclist who’s done his fair share of riding with those from all walks of life, I look forward to participating in what promises to be a fantastic ride in Western North Carolina during the first weekend in October, when the air is crisp and the leaves are starting to change.
If you’re a rider looking for an opportunity to meet new people and help narrow America’s divides, then apply here to participate in the October event.
