At a moment of heightened polarization, these two individuals with vastly different backgrounds shared a meal and the experience of the program. They wanted to dig deep into their opposing beliefs and create empathy. Martin, a retired photographer with a generally right-of-centre perspective, had crossed paths with Cushla at Xi Home Dumplings Bay, London E1. She is a social liberal software geek. As it turned out, their encounter opened the door for an extraordinary opportunity. Rather than trading competing viewpoints, they focused on a productive conversation.
Martin voted Reform in the last election, and he’s planning to do it again. He voiced his frustrations about the drastic increases in crime and overall lawlessness that he has seen in his city during the last several years. Those experiences have propelled him to train as a magistrate, which has provided him a window into the judicial system. He recalls the profound impact of witnessing individuals come and go from court, which has shaped his views on societal issues.
Cushla, who emigrated from New Zealand in ’99, voted Labour in the last election. Regardless of their political affiliations, Donaghy still saw merit in having that conversation across the aisle with Martin. And when people do think differently one-on-one you often don’t hear the reason why and don’t get the chance to really robustly challenge your own thinking. What this has taught me is you have to listen more than you speak,” she said.
Shared Discontent with Government
While both Martin and Cushla have distinct political views, they are unequivocally opposed to the current Conservative government. They think it hasn’t done its job with far more incompetence over its 14-year term. Their shared animus drives their dynamic dialogue. It empowers them to pursue solutions to mutual problems rather than getting caught up in ideological chasms.
This administration has repeatedly emphasized the need for a more effective immigration system. He testified in support of a model similar to Australia’s holding and assessment approach. His positions all come from his conviction that radical, disruptive change is necessary to meet the challenges of a more complicated world. He said that it was refreshing for him to meet someone who could work with him despite their differing perspectives. He liked the format because it allowed for real discussion, rather than just talking past each other. Society conspires to move us toward the extremes. The truth is, we’re not as different in our beliefs as you might think.
Cushla’s view on immigration has a more open-minded approach and reminds the viewer why empathetic policy is crucial to moving forward. Their discussions are emblematic of a broader national conversation about immigration that is more focused on finding common ground than creating opposition.
The Importance of Dialogue
The dinner at Xi Home Dumplings Bay highlighted the importance of civil discourse in a climate often characterized by hostility. Both panelists stressed that by listening to those with different perspectives, we can better understand where others are coming from and find common ground. They walked away with a new understanding and appreciation for each other’s views. Yet, all of a sudden, they figured out that having different senses of opinion was okay.
Their conversation touched on personal anecdotes, including Martin’s memorable encounter with Liam Gallagher in a nightclub restroom, which he once shared with Prince Charles. Stories like these are important reminders that outside of the political fray, it is individual experiences that can build bridges and cultivate empathy.
Cushla and Martin’s meeting underscores a critical point: dialogue is essential for bridging divides. It gives everyone the opportunity to challenge their assumptions and test their ideas through civil discourse.