Dialogues Across Differences

Dialogues Across Differences is a training intensive offered in the tradition of Popular Education on the zoom platform in three four- hour blocks. This institute strengthens participants’ current abilities to effectively dialogue across profound differences of social location, experience, identity and understanding in a way that finds and amplifies the inherent value of all community members while cultivating connection.

Drawing on teachings from Popular Education, ten global wisdom teachings, Dialogue Education and theories of adult learning, we will practice shaping dialogue and engaging in productive conversations across differences in a way that strengthens us all. Learners practice skills and receive feedback in a respectful, challenging, and energetic forum.

In this session, we will apply these skills to dialoguing with survivors of sexual and domestic violence who are in recovery from substance use disorder.

Upon completion of this training, participants will
–Engage others in a process of dialogue that employs a set of Popular Education principles that are respectful, empowering, and accountable.
–Apply content about intersectional oppression, anticipating tensions to address common and predictable misconceptions, values, and conflicts in our communities and cultures.
–Describe restorative resources for oneself in a body-centered, trauma-informed manner.
–Demonstrate when to apply this learning and when best to hold back or switch to a companion skill set.
–Identify powerful facilitative questions that embody respect while de-escalating tensions.