We create spaces where people can express their opinions, learn from each other, and expand their perspectives despite political polarization.
As a collective, our goal is not to push specific beliefs or opinions; rather, we want to create a safe space for communication between disagreeing groups, as there is a lack of understanding for different beliefs across society.
Dialogue must not deteriorate into personal attacks. Maintaining a safe environment keeps us comfortable and willing to express our true thoughts. Discomfort hinders discourse and prevents understanding. People can disagree, but must listen to each other's positions and remain sensitive to others' feelings.
Our mission differs from others here. Personal beliefs are an integral part of democracy; naturally, a diverse population will experience some disagreement. In the absence of differences, there is effectively no reason to vote. Differences in political opinion are necessary to maintain a healthy, free, and functioning democracy.
Because of this, we aim to increase our understanding of varying perspectives and use this knowledge to find common ground. The solution to our world's current state of inaction is not the removal of polarization; it is the reinvigoration of discourse and a collective acceptance that some concessions must be made on both sides.
We strive to make the respectful exchange of ideas a societal norm. We envision a society where individuals don’t just speak but also listen; where dialogue is about understanding and expression, not argumentation.
Respect ought to be the cornerstone of every conversation, where differing viewpoints are seen not as divisions but as opportunities for growth and learning. The goal is to create a world where the freedom to express is matched by the willingness to understand and where respectful discourse becomes a way of life.
These aspirations guide the CGC’s endeavors.
Upper Row (from left to right): Johnathan Miranda, Molly Endert-Tatum, Patrick Woodham, Minjun Kim, Christopher Diaz
Lower Row (from left to right): Alex Yang, Roxie Popescu, Aaden Poyuzina, Elaina Simonsen
President
Political Science & Public Affairs
My favorite franchise is Star Wars, favorite artist is Fujii Kaze, and favorite hobby is gaming!
Vice President
Environmental Science & Environmental Engineering
My favorite movies are La La Land and The Dark Knight, my favorite artist is Laufey, my favorite hobby is reading or going to the beach.
Treasurer
Economics
My favorite movie is Good Will Hunting, my favorite artist is Frank Sinatra, and I love playing tennis!
Head of Public Relations
Public Affairs, Environmental Systems
My favorite movie is The Grand Budapest Hotel, my favorite artist is Donovan, and I love to figure skate and play video games.
Secretary
English
My favorite movie is The Sound of Music, my favorite artist is the Pet Shop Boys, and I love to read and crochet.
General Board Member
African American Studies & Public Affairs
My favorite movies are the Spider-Verse, my favorite artist is Kendrick Lamar, and I am from New York!
Outreach Representative
Geography/Environmental Studies, GIS&T
My favorite movie is Lady Bird, my favorite song is Fine Line by Harry Styles, and I love to watch movies while warm in bed.
Auxiliary Board