In a polarized nation during a contentious campaign season, the idea that politics can help achieve the common good seems surprising. Politics too often appears to be about struggle over control rather than collaboration. The interests of the few are too often privileged over the interests and needs of the many, inequalities are sustained by unequal access to ballots and influence, and cultural values often clash in destructive ways.
In the United States, the history of Latino participation in politics emphasizes collective efforts and solidarity as central parts of political activity. This dialogue explored the concept of the common good in our current political context, drawing especially from the experience and lives of Latino leaders in U.S. politics and the U.S. Catholic Church.
It explored questions such as:
- What kinds of social and political participation are necessary to ensure common efforts toward a common good?
- How are the Harris and Trump presidential campaigns talking about the common good? What specific policies from these candidates advance or neglect the common good?
- How can democratic norms in electoral politics support the common good?
- How should ideas about the common good take into account the most vulnerable in our society?
Christian Soenen, projects manager of the Initiative, moderated the conversation.
Resources
View a list of resources for this dialogue.
This gathering had three parts:
6:00 - 7:00 p.m. | Welcoming Happy Hour
Meet and network with other young Latino leaders over food and drink
7:00 - 8:00 p.m. | Dialogue
A conversation on “Seeking the Common Good in an Election Year: Responses from U.S. Latinos”
8:00 - 9:00 p.m. | Reception
Continue the conversation with other young leaders over food and drink
This Latino Leader Gathering was for young Latino Catholics and others to come together to explore key issues and personal stories involving faith and public life with respected Latino and other leaders.
Photo credit: Joseph Voves via Flickr
