Tennessee Tax Talk with that Tea Party Uncle of yours:

How to navigate that awkward conversation as a Tennessean for Fair Taxation

Tomorrow, after the turkey is eaten and everyone a glass of wine or two deep, a lesser-known Thanksgiving tradition will inevitably present itself: the political argument. TFT is here to help you be both a peacemaker and a social justice warrior at the table.

· Always remember what’s really important.

Focus on your shared values, not differences. You don’t want a sensitive aunt to end up crying into her pumpkin pie. Regardless of your differences, respect your family’s right to their opinion and always avoid insults.

· Know the facts, but avoid preaching

You don’t have to memorize TFT’s website, but it is helpful to have some facts on hand for defusing situations. Always remember not to get caught in semantics or studies from opposing studies you’ve both heard, rather, try to steer the conversation to a larger picture. For example:

Uncle Jerry: If Tennessee had an income tax, I’d be clean broke!

You: Actually, most working Tennesseans would see a tax cut under a progressive, broad-based income tax structure. I think we can both agree that people who work everyday need a break – a strong middle class is what this country really needs.

· Know your position, but be open to listening to others.

Before you have that conversation, ask yourself why you support TFT. You may be surprised to learn that your answers are very universal. For example, you may support TFT because you think food is an essential human need that should never be taxed, or you might believe that those who benefit from society the most have a moral obligation to support it the most. You might believe that the poor and working class deserve to pay the same percentage in taxes as the rich, (not more), or you may believe that children of all socioeconomic backgrounds in Tennessee deserve a better infrastructure for their future. Whatever your reasoning is, listen to others without judging. Example:

Your father-in-law: You donate to TFT?! I didn’t know you were a communist!

You: Actually, I donate to TFT because I want to support the work they do to take the taxes off food - everybody eats, and I don’t think anyone should take advantage of that.

· Steer clear of buzzwords and bumper sticker slogans.

Class warfare, the one percent, godless society, out-of-control spending, Obamacare, Horn-honkers, liberal/conservative media, welfare state, and the war on terror are all words not to say. Why? Because they invoke a well-designed emotional response which will derail the conversation. Instead, focus on real issues with your own words. For example, although it looks great on a sticker, yelling “Feed the needy, not the greedy!” at the dinner table won’t win you as much support as saying, “Our elected officials in Tennessee will need to take the tax off food and find additional revenue sources if we want to give everyone a chance at a better future and a delicious meal like this one. Thanks, Aunt Patty!”

· Remember that you have support from your TFT family, too.

We love to have conversations about Tennessee taxes! If you hear a good point and would like clarification, if you have a question, or would just like to reenact that argument with your in-laws, give us a call or post on our facebook wall! We want to hear from you. We work everyday for the betterment of the state tax structure, and we’re proud that you’re representing us well within your circle. Thank you!

And while you’re at it, you can make a TFT donation in your Uncle’s name – we’ll even send him a thank-you card acknowledging your contribution.

TFT wishes you a safe, happy, and harmonious Thanksgiving. We have so much to be grateful for; thank you for your support and dedication to revenue with justice.