Because I saw a post going around stating the contrary…
Yes, engaging in respectful conversation is an effective way to change people’s minds!
I have seen it happen. I have done it. I have been legit unnerved by how much power I can have over someone else’s thinking just by being persistent and really fuckin’ soft-spoken and understated in my opinions. I can say, “I guess I have a slightly easier time understanding why people believe the opposite” and watch people turn a 180 in what seemed like firm opinion. This is a thing. It exists.
Is it your job to engage in respectful debates on social issues? No. Should you prioritize educating people over taking care of yourself? No. Does it always work? No. Is it a safe way to deal with someone who has direct power over you or has abused you? Rarely.
Is it one of the most effective forms of activism I have ever seen in play? Yes.
It’s emotionally exhausting to engage kindly with views that disgust you, but it can also be scary powerful, like shifting a pebble and starting an avalanche.
If you choose to abstain from this form of activism, that’s totally legit.
But please, please, don’t dismiss the courage or the power of people who do choose to step up to this particular plate.
please don’t do that
The other opportunity is in changing the minds of bystanders. But I agree that it takes a lot of emotional energy and understand if someone isn’t up for doing that.