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What we’re about

Who Are We?
Trying to Speak Spanish RVA is a group for Spanish speakers of all levels to gather and converse using a language we love. Our goal is to facilitate mutual learning and practice. Whether you're already fluent, trying to polish those rusty conversation skills, or have only spent a few minutes on Duo-lingo, everyone has something valuable to contribute!

What Can I Expect?
We gather regularly at public spots in the Richmond area for an hour of Spanish conversation. Meetings usually start with a round of introductions, introducing ourselves and briefly noting how we've practiced since we last saw each other, if we've consumed any interesting Spanish media, or any other Spanish Language-related highlights in our lives. Then we dive into conversation. Before each event, we'll forward one or two Spanish articles or videos as fodder for discussion, but people should feel free to talk about whatever they'd like.

Are There Any Rules?
During meetings, please keep the following in mind:

  1. The goal is to speak Spanish. While we're all at different levels, please try where possible to use Spanish over English during our time together. Language is a tool to understand and be understood, and there's no shame in attempting that with Spanish however you can, even if your proficiency isn't complete. (That said, there's also no shame if you do occasionally slip into English or if you have questions about Spanish, how to formulate sentences, word usage, etc. We're all learners!)
  2. This group is a learning environment, which necessarily involves making and correcting mistakes. Try to be conscientious when giving and receiving criticism. Assume any criticism is given with the best of intentions and reciprocate by offering it with the best of intentions yourself. Too, assume any mistakes are made innocently.
  3. We'll be in a public setting most of the time, so please try to keep the conversation PG. If you wouldn't say something in a crowded coffee shop in English, it's probably best to refrain from saying it in Spanish.
  4. Some of the articles and videos we draw on will be news and current events from various countries. Please keep in mind that part of conversation often involves expressing opinions, so try to be accommodating and respectful if a member expresses something you personally disagree with. By that same token, if you do opine on something, be respectful and conscientious while doing so.
  5. All people are welcome to participate regardless of race, ethnicity, orientation, gender, or creed, so please be respectful at all times.

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