UNDIVIDE US: Exploring Civil Discourse and Political Divisions in America

UNDIVIDE US, a documentary film written, directed, and produced by Kristi Kendall, presents an ideal opportunity for educators to explore America’s political divisions and the power of civil discourse. This documentary challenges the media-fueled narrative that our country is on the brink of civil war. Instead, it highlights the ability of citizens to engage in respectful, productive conversations despite their differences. With expert insights, the film suggests solutions to bridge divides locally and nationally.

“What Is the ‘UNDIVIDE US’ Documentary About?”

As news and social media amplify a narrative of an America on the brink of civil war, politicians in Washington, DC stir conflict: red against blue, rich against poor, urban against rural, race against race, and man against woman. They cast us as enemies locked in battle, usurping power and posing as our saviors.

UNDIVIDE US challenges the idea that citizens who disagree are not capable of civil conversation and demonstrates the truth that, even in our differences, the American experiment is still alive and well.

It exposes the power players in Washington DC as the true disruptors of peace, driving our legitimate differences to the brink of disaster. Hear from experts about the roots of this toxic polarization and learn how to counteract it in our local communities and lives.

Classroom Resources: Teach Civil Discourse and Political Polarization

UNDIVIDE US is an essential tool for educators, students, and anyone seeking to understand and counter the political and social divides shaping today’s America. Whether you’re looking to bring these discussions into the classroom or your community, this documentary provides the resources to start meaningful conversations that bridge the gap between political ideologies.

Encourage your students to think critically about the role of media and politics in shaping public opinion. Use the resources and lesson plans below to get you started:

• Stossel in the Classroom Lesson Plan
• Undivide Us Conversation Guide
• Article: Communications that Unites Us
• Article: Learning to Disagree
• The Dignity Index

Watch the Undivide Us documentary and learn how to foster civil discourse in your classroom or community.