Navigating Political Differences in a Therapeutic Barn Community

Navigating Political Differences in a Beloved Community

For the past 18 months, I have been taking weekly lessons at a stable dedicated to therapeutic horseback riding. This incredible team specializes in providing equine-assisted activities for individuals with disabilities, as well as offering programs for children. The barn has become my sanctuary, a place of joy and healing, so much so that I have volunteered at various events and contributed financially to support their mission.

I have developed a deep appreciation for the stable’s director; her expert guidance has played a significant role in my journey toward becoming stronger, happier, and more self-assured. Recently, I visited the barn to drop off my granddaughter for her last day of riding camp. To my dismay, I noticed a large Trump banner prominently displayed on the directorā€™s front porch, right next to the stable and visible to everyone.

This felt like a gut punch. The thought of a Trump presidency is something I find utterly horrifying. I know thereā€™s little point in discussing this with the director; early on, she made it clear that politics and religion were off-limits topics within our barn community. (Now I see why!)

While I could seek out a different stable, I am reluctant to start anew with someone unfamiliar. Leaving would mean sacrificing something I adore; on the other hand, staying would force me to wrestle with feelings of discomfort and a sense of inauthenticity. How can I effectively navigate this complicated situation? ā€” Name Withheld

From the Ethicist:

Your world is filled with services provided by individuals who, amidst this contentious election season, support Donald Trumpā€™s candidacy; the truth is, you may not even be aware of their political leanings. Consider that some of these people may have helped develop the software on your phone, repaired your plumbing, delivered food to your grocery store, or even treated your granddaughterā€™s ear infection. I assume youā€™re not committed to avoiding the company or services of all these individuals.

However, it seems your frustration might stem less from the director’s support of Trump and more from the public demonstration of that support. She has seemingly breached her own guideline: displaying a large Trump banner contradicts the notion of maintaining a politically neutral environment. When one person shares a political opinion, it opens the door for others to engage in political discourse. Itā€™s vital for citizens to feel free to discuss their views on who would ā€” and would not ā€” make a suitable president.

Thus, I hope youā€™re not feeling disingenuous simply because you havenā€™t expressed your thoughts to the director regarding your views on the former president. Instead of quietly withdrawing from this cherished place, why not engage her in a conversation about her enthusiasm for a potential second Trump administration? Make sure to listen to her perspective before sharing your own. If she believes that displaying a banner is different from having a discussion, you might consider showing up to your lessons wearing merchandise that supports your candidate.

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