We Dined All Across Texas, Here’s What We Learned
Together We Dine (TWD) is a community dialogue program born out of a moment of deep crisis and a renewed call for unity. The initiative began in 2017 in Dallas, launched by Senior Pastor Richie Butler of St. Luke Community United Methodist Church, and founder of Project Unity.
When Pastor Butler joined the Common Ground USA (CG-USA) Texas Advisory Board in 2024, and CG-USA staff learned more about the TWD events, it made complete sense to create a partnership.
This partnership introduced a new focus: political polarization.
Understanding that food brings people together, we embraced this opportunity to use mealtime conversations as an entry point for civic unity. Each dinner places participants at moderated tables led by trained facilitators who guide dialogue, keep discussions balanced, and ensure that every voice is heard with respect.
In 2024, we brought TWD to Midland, San Antonio, Dallas, and Houston, engaging Texans from diverse backgrounds in conversations grounded in curiosity and connection. This year, we expanded further—hosting dines in Mineral Wells, Houston (our first issue-specific dine on immigration), Austin, and Corpus Christi. We closed the year with our first-ever college dines, held in partnership with The University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M University in College Station.
We convened nearly 300 Texans in 2025, and can’t wait to build on this momentum in 2026. Moving forward, we’ll continue partnering with local Chambers of Commerce, increase our collaboration with local mayors and city councils, and grow our outreach to colleges across the state.
Statistics From This Year's Together We Dine Events:
99% said TWD provided a non-confrontational, confidential environment to listen to others and share experiences
82% gained a new or different perspective on an important national issue
80% felt better able to respect and appreciate the political views and experiences of others after attending TWD
99% rated their experience with the TWD facilitators positively
95% would be willing to come back and participate again
54% recognized that after the event, they still found it challenging to understand some of the political views and experiences of others
Reflections From Across Texas:
I really enjoyed hearing the other participants' ideas and I feel confident and equipped to have collaborative discussions about politics within my friend group and community.
—Student at Texas A&M University
Communication allows space for full disclosure, trust, and history.
—Corpus Christi Resident
The importance of storytelling and using it as a vessel to help build connection and understanding.
—Student at the University of Texas at Austin
Listening to the personal experience of someone involved in politics was extremely eye opening.
—Mineral Wells Resident
Across Texas, Together We Dine continues to demonstrate that community can be rebuilt not through debate, but through shared food, honest conversation, and a commitment to understanding one another.
