Cultural Diversity

Our world abounds in a mosaic of cultures. Some enjoy perceiving it as a colorful landscape, made of different languages and beliefs. They would focus on the patterns that unite us and make us one. Others are curious about the cultural differences and their opposing realities. Two complementary views that are essential to our understanding of who we are, what unites us and makes us empathetic towards each other. But also what divides us. This is the ideal light, but still beautifully complex topic, that will bring us together after our summer break!

As usual, we will first explore our experiences with the different cultures that shape us and intrigue us, then we will abstract from there:

• When people from other countries think about your culture, what do they usually think of?
• Have you ever experienced a culture shock or felt the pressure to assimilate into a culture?
• Why are cultural differences exciting for some and frightening for others? What could be the contributing factors for each?
• What is the link between cultures and identities? How can it explain our degree of cultural differences acceptance?
• Let's explore how empathy seems to be connected to similarities between individuals and cultures!

Looking forward to meeting you all for an inspiring conversation about cultures and diversity :)

PS: depending on the weather, this event will take place either in a park or at Café Le Hygge.

To build together a fruitful, respectful and inspiring conversation, please be aware of the following ground rules:

• Listen respectfully, without interrupting.
• Listen actively and with an ear to understanding others' views.
• Comment on ideas, not individuals.
• Commit to learning, not debating. Comment in order to share information, not to persuade.
• Avoid blame, speculation, and inflammatory language.
• Allow everyone the chance to speak.
• Avoid no-shows to be fair towards the participants in the waitlist and the organizer.
• Avoid showing up to the event if you are not part of the attendees list to be fair towards the waitlist members and the organizer.
• Be mindful and present during the discussion and avoid being on your phone - after all, it's the beauty of a face-to-face social interaction.