Event: September 13, 2017, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

You are cordially invited to participate in the next CONVERSATION CIRCLE at Damon Hall in Hartland VT Wednesday, September 13, 6-8 pm

TOPIC: How can we build unity and pride in our racial and ethnic heritage without superiority or divisiveness with those of different heritages?

The recent violence in Charlottesville Virginia was very troubling, and ongoing issues of race and ethnicity in our diverse, multicultural society continue to challenge us all. For our next Circle, we will look at the thorny questions of how we honor and build solidarity, and address needs within our own racial and ethnic groups, while also overcoming divisions and building unity with those of different heritages. How do we recognize and deal with intolerance, ignorance, bigotry, and notions of superiority, in our culture, in our institutions, and within us? As always, there’s a great deal to explore here, and who knows how far will get, but at least we can begin.

EVERYONE IS WELCOME

In this time of social division, turmoil, and confusion, where it has become difficult for people to communicate in a caring and constructive way, the Conversation Circle is an alternative approach to talking with each other, for the purpose of learning, understanding, empathizing, connecting with each other, building bridges, and strengthening community.

The Conversation Circle is a structured and facilitated conversation among a small group of people (maximum 8 people) with a variety of viewpoints and perspectives. In a Conversation Circle, each person shares their views, perceptions, experiences, hopes, and concerns around a topic of interest, without interruption, rebuttal, or feedback, during two rounds. In addition, there is at least one round of open discussion. It is not a lecture or debate where people get on their soapbox and try to convince others, nor is it a meeting to make decisions or reach agreement. Rather, the Conversation Circle is an open get-together where participants listen respectively to each other, with an attitude of open-mindedness, appreciation, acceptance, curiosity, discovery, sincerity, and brevity, all of which participants agree to. This opens the door for greater connection, common ground, and collaboration to address community needs, challenges, and goals.

We will begin promptly at 6 pm to maximize the conversation time. Light dinner and refreshments will be available.

For RSVP or more info, contact Gary Shapiro - gshapcrc@sover.net or phone 802-229-1165

Sponsored by the Hartland Public Library