College Students convened with leaders, including Governor Spencer Cox, at the Utah State Capitol to discuss their growing concerns about the divisive and polarized state of American society.
The event was hosted by Tolerance Means Dialogue, Braver Angels, Equality Utah, the Fairness for All Initiative, 1st Amendment Partnership, University of Utah, Brigham Young University Law School's International Center for Law and Religion Studies, and the Federalist Society at the law schools of both BYU and the University of Utah.
One of the central themes of Governor Cox's speech was the urgent need for tolerance and constructive dialogue. He stressed that Americans must learn to engage with those who hold different viewpoints with respect and empathy, recognizing that diversity of thought is a cornerstone of democracy. Cox emphasized that tolerance should not be synonymous with indifference but rather an active effort to understand and appreciate the perspectives of others.
Cox's call for tolerance and dialogue was not limited to the realm of politics but extended to all aspects of American life. He highlighted the importance of fostering civil conversations in workplaces, communities, and even within families. The governor argued that by promoting respectful discussions, society can overcome the current climate of hostility and mistrust.