Being Bold [ Pantsuit Politics: Prioritizing Relationships Over Politics

By Hayley Moore, Education & Development Vice President

over the past few years, we have all been in a conversation with someone and thought, “I think you’re wrong, but I’m listening.”

It is well-known and practiced etiquette to exclude politics from social conversations, but over the past few years, it has become nearly impossible not to inevitably cross a topic that is politically adjacent, if not full-blown politically charged.

On September 29, we featured the co-hosts of the popular Pantsuit Politics podcast, Sarah Stewart Holland and Beth Silvers, at a speaking event at Camp Trivera. The Girls Scouts of Western Oklahoma generously partnered with JLOC to enable nearly 150 people to attend the event at their beautiful new facility.

Sarah and Beth spoke to members of JLOC, as well as members of the Oklahoma City community, about the importance of having respectful discussions about policy that don’t divide us, but instead, help us understand the differing perspectives in a respectful way that, with intention, can create more acceptance and care for those around us.

President Sheena Karami Hollander understands the importance of navigating conversations in today’s politically-charged atmosphere: “Partnering with Pantsuit Politics was a wonderful opportunity for JLOC to engage both our members and the community in a public forum. Our leaders know first-hand the importance of navigating difficult conversations, as doing so helps us understand the different perspectives of our shared community. In line with JLOC’s values, Beth and Sarah reaffirmed the importance of prioritizing people over politics and embracing what matters most, while staying true to our vision of impacting the community and enriching lives.”

The event included a book signing with Sarah and Beth for sponsors and special guests and a Q&A to help answer difficult questions that we all face in our everyday interactions with friends and co-workers.

Sponsors were University of Central Oklahoma Public Affairs, Ryan Whaley Attorneys and Ragnar Research Partners. Let’s Fix This OK also supported the event.