I realize that one should not discuss negativity on Shabbat. However, on occasions, Shabbat is one of the few times during the week I gather with family or community. Is it possible to discuss negative events (personal or political) for the sole purpose of improving ourselves or society? Thank you very much.
Yes, in theory it is, if you really mean to improve yourselves. But be very careful not to get into any forbidden speech such as slander, speaking and believing something negative about a person, etc (lashon hara).