Seeking understanding

Clouds catch the last glimmer of evening sunlight near Cabot Road in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

This country was built on finding common ground between differing points of view. Though that ability often seems elusive right now, it’s a focus we can regain, and it starts with working to understand each other better.

On that note, the breakdown of pandemic relief negotiations in Washington are fresh in people’s minds today. That result showed the great need for effective collaboration, especially in times of great need. Many observed the situation over the past week, hoping the talks were sufficiently driven by the urgency of the moment, that — just maybe — a deal would be hammered out. Instead, the negotiations stalled, and on Saturday President Donald Trump took executive action on several key items, including extending enhanced federal unemployment aid, though at the reduced rate of $400 per week. For now, the talks remain at a standstill. 

While the issues at the federal level loom large, given the great need for a new COVID-19 relief bill, Vermont’s unified approach to the recovery provides some reassurance. Gov. Phil Scott and his team continue to unveil grant programs and other initiatives backed by funding the Legislature approved this year. That money comes from the federal CARES Act, and other initiatives supported by that money are expected to be rolled out in the coming weeks, to further help with recovery. 

To be sure, the road ahead is one of limited options to address this economic crisis. As I ponder it, I’m reminded of the governor’s words in a prior press conference: “It just takes us, united, to make this a better country for everyone.” At the time, he spoke of the need to address issues of racial equity, and that statement can also apply to healing political rifts and other divisions in our nation. The solutions to all crucial issues start right in our own communities, with a willingness to step closer to somebody else’s truth and compassionately understand their perspective. From that point, we can move toward building unity, heart by heart, and eventually use that momentum to take on big problems. It’s a gradual process, with an end-goal that’s worth pursuing.

— Gareth Henderson

Update: On Sunday, Aug. 9, Reuters reported that U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin each expressed a willingness to resume COVID-19 relief talks.