After yet another tragic event—like the recent shootings by federal agents in Minneapolis—it’s easy to ask, as I did, “Is this a way I should be spending my time? Am I getting anywhere? Am I doing any good?”. It’s the constant, disheartening question for those of us in the “bridging” movement: are we just “fiddling while Rome burns”?
Kristin Jackson offers a vital perspective, reminding us that the nation has always faced monumental challenges, from the assassinations of MLK and JFK to the current moment of tragedies like those in Minnesota. She argues that stepping away to fight on one side is part of the problem. What we are doing is delivering the tools for “inspired debate,” ensuring the “public square” isn’t wasted by making sure people have access to quality information and different viewpoints.
This clip serves as a powerful reminder of why we must persist in fostering informed conversation, even when the work feels fruitless. The full interview with Kristin will appear soon on the Outrage Overload podcast.









