How to Talk About Climate Change at the Thanksgiving Dinner Table

One of my favorite parts of Thanksgiving is spending time with my family, especially extended family members whom I don’t get to see often enough. Our time together includes the usual Thanksgiving traditions – eating specially prepared food (I’m bringing my signature apple pie this year), watching football, and taking a walk between the main course and the pies. 

My family knows that I am passionate about climate change and creation care, so during the course of our day together, as we talk about each others’ interests, these topics can come up. 

Most of my family shares my desire for climate solutions that will help bring about a more just and sustainable world. However, I do have one family member (let’s call him Uncle Joe) whose views differ from mine, so our conversations can at times feel uncomfortable or risky.

Perhaps you expect to face a similar situation with your own Uncle Joe this Thanksgiving as you gather with your family and friends? 

While the majority of Americans (71%) now believe climate change is happening, most of us (68%) believe it’s risky to admit our views if they differ from friends and family.

ecoAmerica’s latest research offers some ways to ease into this conversation as you’re passing around the stuffing and cranberries.

Join us Friday November 20 at 9 am PT/12 pm ET for a webinar on our new research findings Let’s Talk Climate: Messages to Motivate Americans 

We will share our latest research findings and market-tested, emotionally resonant messages for talking about climate change in ways that connect with the attitudes and values of ordinary Americans. It will include tips for application, what to avoid, and specific language tailored for leaders in faith, health, higher education, communities, and business.

To engage on climate solutions, Americans need to see their trusted leaders and others around them addressing climate change in their words and actions.  This webinar will provide resources to you as a trusted leader in all your important work making the conversation personal and relevant to overcome the barriers to action.

Sign up for the webinar here and share with your friends. Maybe even share with your Uncle Joe.

This Thanksgiving, I am grateful for your climate leadership and all your faithful work to make the world a better place for us all. Happy Thanksgiving to your family and you.