About Dialoguing Over Differences

This group is a study circle that will explore the challenge of racism and race relations in our communities. A racially and ethnically diverse group of participants will get to know one another, consider different points of view, explore disagreements, and discover common ground. The group will meet for five sessions typically once per week over a five week period.

While race is an important part of American public discourse it is also very personal and emotionally stirring. Therefore, each participant is responsible for maintaining an atmosphere of safety, respect, constructiveness, and confidentiality to promote an open, honest, respectful, and insightful conversation about issues of race.

Group size will be limited to 8-12 participants. Depending upon interest more than one group may be held at the same time and additional groups will be formed in the future. To promote a conversation among diverse participants the organizer reserves the right to make final decisions about group membership. The group will meet at a time that is chosen by the group at a location that is accessible to group members.

How will the group work and what will I learn?

The study circle will be led by an experienced facilitator and during each session the facilitator will introduce the theme for the session and present questions for reflection and discussion.  The questions are designed to help participants explore their experiences and opinions. In some cases, participants will examine a variety of real-life viewpoints and select one which best represents their own views.

Session One: Experiences, Perceptions and Beliefs

Session Two: What Is the Nature of the Race Problem?

Session Three: What Should We Do?

Session Four: What Public Policies Will Help Us Deal with Race Relations?

Session Five: How Can We Move from Words to Actions?