Smerconish Mingle Meetup

Civil conversation. Diverse perspectives. Curiosity over persuasion.

Our first Smerconish Mingle Meetup in Annapolis was a genuine success.
Fourteen people attended, and many stayed well past the scheduled end — a great sign that the conversations were engaging, respectful, and worth continuing.

What stood out most was the tone. This was a safe and civil space where people felt comfortable expressing their views — even when they disagreed. The emphasis was on curiosity over persuasion, listening over arguing, and understanding perspectives rather than attempting to convert opinions.

While the group seemed to be comprised mostly of moderates (as many Smerconish Mingles are), a range of viewpoints were represented, and thoughtful disagreement was welcomed and handled well. Going forward, we'd love to continue expanding the diversity of perspectives — including more conservative and right-leaning voices — while maintaining the same spirit of respect and intellectual honesty.
This is not a rally, not a debate club, and certainly not an echo chamber.
It is a place for people who enjoy nuanced conversation, value civility, and challenging their own assumptions.

If you’re curious, open-minded, and interested in hearing views that may not mirror your own, and sharing yours without fear, judgment or pressure, you’re very much welcome.

Looking forward to continuing the conversation at our next meetup.