I am sick and tired of the extreme rhetoric from both the US left and right. It is disheartening to see our elected officials engage in heated debates and unproductive arguments rather than focusing on civil discourse and working towards common solutions for the many pressing issues we face as a nation. We, the People, need and deserve leaders who can bridge divides, find common ground, and prioritize the well-being of all citizens.

One way to foster this necessary change is to require all publicly elected officials at every level of government to complete an annual conflict resolution course. These courses would equip our leaders with the tools and skills necessary to engage in constructive dialogue, manage disagreements productively, and collaborate more effectively across party lines. Such training would not only enhance their leadership skills but also promote a culture of respect and understanding in political discourse.

Conflict resolution training has proven benefits in numerous fields, including business, education, and community leadership, leading to more effective problem-solving and improved relationships. By integrating this practice into the fabric of our government, we can hope to see a transformation in the way our leaders conduct themselves and interact with one another.

According to a study by the American Psychological Association, training programs that focus on negotiation and conflict resolution have resulted in significant improvements in participants' problem-solving approaches and teamwork capabilities. Implementing such programs for our elected officials would potentially lead to more bipartisan cooperation and successful policy outcomes.

Let us call upon Congress and state legislatures to mandate these annual courses for all elected officials. It is time for our leaders to exemplify the collaborative spirit they wish to inspire in their constituents. Join me in advocating for this essential change to strengthen our democracy and build a more harmonious and productive political landscape.

Most organizations require annual anti-harassment training and I believe should also require conflict management skills training too. 

Please sign this petition to urge our government to take this important step towards better governance and more effective leadership. Together, we can demand that our representatives receive the training they need to serve us better.