Resilient States Project

Texas

The Future of Texas Is Ours to Build

What happens in Texas is decided by us. Our state is built by people who aren’t afraid to do what it takes to make Texas stronger, bigger, and better. People like you.

Every Texan has a story of courage, of effort, of change. We want to know yours.

What have you done this year to make Texas the best it can be?

Our Focus

The Texas Resilient States Project works to decrease political polarization and reduce the risk of political violence.

By building trust and encouraging dialogue, we aim to empower leaders to break down barriers and foster understanding. Our goal is to highlight the common ground that all Texans share, regardless of their differing political beliefs.

Our Work in Texas

State Compact

We invite Texas businesses, associations, and organizations to join us in a commitment to fostering civility and stability throughout our state. This commitment is guided by five principles: championing civility; respectful disagreement; upholding our welcoming tradition; promoting stability for prosperity; and leading by example. By signing this commitment, we can work together to  create a more respectful and prosperous Texas.

View the full compact here.

Community Events

Together We Dine

In partnership with Project Unity, we are hosting Together We Dine (TWD) events in cities across Texas.  This event is designed to unite people from different backgrounds to share a meal and engage in open, honest conversations. The goal is to break down barriers, foster understanding, and highlight the common ground we all share—despite our different political beliefs.   

We may have different views,

but we all want a better future for Texas.

Let’s focus on what unites us

as a way to achieve our goals.

Why This Work Matters

The rise in political violence and harassment, especially against election administrators and elected officials, highlights an urgent need for action. In Texas, officials have faced severe threats—including death threats and the public release of personal information—driven by false claims of voter fraud.

Reducing political violence and divisiveness is not only critical for safeguarding democracy but also for maintaining the shared bonds that allow communities to function. Research shows that when polarization weakens these connections, trust erodes, cooperation declines, and the risk of targeted harassment or violence increases. Strengthening connections across lines of difference is therefore essential to keeping communities safe and resilient.


Promoting civil discourse and non-violent alternatives helps foster a more predictable political environment, protecting both economic growth and social cohesion. As a key player in national political trends, Texas has been significantly impacted by rising political extremism. Reports show a surge in race, gender, and politically motivated incidents led by extremist groups.

Additionally, social media platforms are increasingly used to spread misinformation, contributing to political polarization and violence. With one of the largest online populations in the country, Texas is particularly vulnerable to this growing trend.

Addressing these challenges is essential to protecting public officials, preserving democratic processes, and ensuring the stability of Texas’ economy and social harmony—all while upholding the state's proud tradition of resilience and community strength.


What is the Perception Gap?

The Perception Gap refers to the difference between what one group of people believes about another group’s opinions (or priorities, values, attitudes) and what that other group actually reports believing. More in Common

In practice, this means that many Americans significantly over-estimate how extreme or polarized “the other side” is — politically, ideologically, and culturally. More in Common

Our Partners in Texas

Our work in Texas is guided by an advisory board made up of leaders from four key sectors—business, education, veterans, and faith—who collectively bring a wide range of political viewpoints, community experiences, and professional insights. This mix ensures that our strategies reflect the realities and concerns of Texans from many different backgrounds and walks of life.

Committed to reducing polarization and preventing political violence, the board uses its combined expertise to shape practical solutions for communities while also informing conversations with policymakers. By linking community perspectives with decision-making spaces, the board helps strengthen trust, improve dialogue across differences, and support a safer, more resilient Texas.

What Can You Do?

Change starts with you. Here are some steps that you can take to promote civility and lower the temperature in Texas.

  • Enter conversations with an open mind, listen first, and share your views with respectful, constructive language.

  • Publicly promote civility, reject division, and raise your voice at the ballot box by voting in primary elections.

  • Contact your elected officials and remind them that most constituents prefer their elected officials to govern in a respectful, civil manner.

  • Spend less time online and do something local. Volunteer or join a club. Connecting with people in real life—especially those different from you—makes our communities stronger!

  • Host a block party or barbecue.

  • Bring your neighbors together over good food and meaningful conversation. Small gatherings can spark big change on your street.

  • Host a movie night with your family, friends, or neighbors! Watch UndivideUs and get the free discussion guide.

Stay Informed

To stay up to date with our work on the Texas Resilient States Project, send us an email.

For additional resources, visit our resources page.