Divisions are always obvious around elections, and the upcoming midterm elections in the United States are no different. In fact, things seem more divisive than ever. Hate crimes are up, morale is down, and the majority of Americans are concerned that incivility in Washington will lead to violence or acts of terror.
It can be hard to remember that we’re all part of the same country. When thinking about things on a global scale, like the world’s worst humanitarian crisis in Yemen or Central Americans walking thousands of miles to find safety for their families, the rhetoric is so divisive it can be hard to remember we’re all part of a larger community, too–you know, the one of human beings.
This month on Curiosity Magazine we’re featuring stories about politics and community, from learning about the homeless community ahead of elections in California to mourning poll results over pounded yam in Nigeria. We’ll talk about rebuilding after a hurricane in Florida, a diplomacy effort in Myanmar, and why it’s important to remember history when talking about culture in South Carolina. Community can be created anywhere, as one writer learned over asado in Argentina, a group of men learned through cricket in Detroit, and Syrians are learning as they return to their ancestors’ homes in Armenia. Food has a way of uniting, too. Follow us to Jamaica for jerk and New Mexico for chiles; to Louisville’s bourbon community and to visit Italy’s northern winemakers; and from Malaysia to London, as one writer grapples with how she’ll remember the tastes of home.
Thanksgiving as a holiday is flawed, but giving thanks over a good meal with your community is not. This month, I’m thankful for the talented journalists from around the world who have contributed their stories here, and am so excited to share them with you.
–Rebecca
