Learn about the causes and consequences of the rural-urban divide. Consider the diverse perspectives and priorities of rural working people. Set aside stereotypical assumptions about people based on their zip code or formal education. Understand the challenges and strengths of rural and small town communities adapting to decades of deindustrialization, population decline, and family farm losses. Take stock of ways in which the two major parties have failed them. Recognize that people who take pride in self-reliance sometimes feel shame or resentment when they must rely on government assistance. Reflect on the ways in which the land and labors of rural people make modern life possible. Walk a mile in their shoes.

Learn to engage in respectful dialogue across lines of difference. Share your values and opinions without dehumanizing or acting superior to those who were raised to see things differently. Learn how to talk about racism and other forms of prejudice in ways that don’t trigger defensiveness. Talk like a neighbor, not an activist. Don’t censor, lecture, scold or use slogans like “America is already great” that don’t ring true. Don’t doomsay or exaggerate. Avoid language that is academic, wordy, dogmatic, condescending, self-righteous, or trendy. Let people know that your goal is not to convince them but to understand their needs and seek common ground.

Make the concerns of rural poor and working people as high a priority as other progressive concerns. Consider solutions that are universal as well as those that are uniquely responsive to rural needs. Engage local knowledge, expertise and values instead of proposing top-down policies designed by distant bureaucrats. Invest in rural institutions that have already earned the public’s trust. Bring rural voices into universities, media and the arts. Reverse trade and agriculture policies that have left farmers and blue collar workers high and dry. Confront industries that treat rural areas like resource colonies, and corporations who bust unions, raid pensions and shutter local hospitals, banks and newspapers. Challenge political parties to put people and planet ahead of profits.