Principled Struggle
Audio: "Pushing Through Difficult Conversations with Leadership" - Eric Gray
About This Audio
This audio presents a framework for principled struggle—a way of engaging in conflict that builds deeper unity rather than division. Based on the work of N'Tanya Lee and adrienne maree brown, it offers guidance on being honest while holding compassion, taking responsibility for our feelings, and choosing the right spaces for difficult conversations.
Key Principles of Principled Struggle
Building Deeper Unity
Struggle for the sake of building deeper unity, not winning arguments.
Honesty with Compassion
Be honest and direct while holding compassion for others.
Personal Responsibility
Take responsibility for your own feelings and actions.
Seek Understanding First
Ask questions and read carefully before launching counterarguments.
Choosing the Right Container
The video emphasizes the importance of choosing the right space for difficult conversations:
- •A coalition meeting may not be a political home
- •A strategy table may not be the space for working through interpersonal dynamics
- •Recognize when and where different types of conversations belong
Reflection Questions
- 1.How do you typically respond to conflict? Do you tend toward avoidance or aggression?
- 2.What would it look like to approach a current conflict with the goal of building deeper unity?
- 3.Are there conversations you've been having in the wrong "container"? What might be a better space?
- 4.How can you practice seeking understanding through questions before responding?
Moving Beyond Conflict Avoidance and Aggression
Principled struggle offers a third way—generative conflict that:
Grows each person involved
Creates more possibilities for collective action
Strengthens relationships through honest dialogue
Builds the foundation for sustained collaboration