When we hear about a couple having different political views, we might judge and think how can two people be in love when their politics divide their personalities so much? And when we see children having different views from their parents, we may see it as a sign of rebellion, a source of conflict. 

But how much do our politics change the relationships we have with the most important people in our lives– family, friends and partners? 

A good way to think about how you deal with political divisions in your relationships is how much does that person mean to you? Is their politics going against your own rights and identity or against someone’s livelihood? Can you educate them? 

In my view, politics is a tricky subject whoever you’re speaking to,

As with friends, I think this stands at the same core. You can always make a pact to not speak about politics to make things easier as well. Politics does not need to be at the centre of your conversations. 

With family, I think this is the most difficult. I often find myself not speaking up if a member of my family starts talking about a controversial topic on the news. I just remain silent. By no means is this the way to go, my silence does not achieve anything other than making my politics go unseen but it does keep the conflict at bay. Politics doesn’t have to involve disagreements and arguments. Yet, I say this from a position of privilege to be able to remain silent. Politics does have a significant effect on people’s rights and existence. 

To me, divided politics isn’t necessarily a disaster waiting to happen. I actually think it is a way we can learn about different opinions, see another side to the story and learn to educate others and ourselves. If we all had the same opinions, surely things would be a bit boring? We have to accept that we are never going to find an entire set of family, friends or partner that completely agree with everything one may say. Despite this, we cannot accept opinions that disregard people’s existence. This should never be allowed.

As stated in The Guardian, ‘Sometimes, living your politics means challenging those around you, even if they are your friend’. I agree with this as I think it is important to challenge those you love, to get to know where they stand on a bigger level, to say: how about what I think? Have you considered this? Why not? You will never change someone’s views if you don’t challenge them. 

What is most important to remember is that we must give our friends, partners and family members free speech. Everyone is entitled to their own opinions, even if you don’t agree with them. It is important to remember though that this can only be true if it isn’t harmful or hateful towards someone’s existence.

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