As the Biden White House hoste the United We Stand Summit on Thursday, I spoke with China Radio International about why the pursuit of “unity” is good — and necessary — politics in a US damaged by polarization.

Listen to Discussion from 24:40

Fielding questions playing up the division in America and doubting the value of “unity”, I look at the historical context, the damage wrought during the Trump years, and — citing the “good trouble” of the late John Lewis — a better America through the challenge to hatred and violence against anyone because of race, religion, or gender.

A message of tolerance and dignity — it’s not something you hide. You have to go on the front foot with it, and hopefully this summit is just one marker of a turn for the better in America.