Dialogue is a form of communication that goes beyond ordinary conversation. Dialogue can defuse the polarization that characterizes much public discourse and generate understanding that can transform individual, communities and institutions. In this course, students will examine models of dialogic communication and theories of intergroup relations with a specific focus to intersectional identities. We will consider how the practice of dialogue can build deeper understanding of self and others, reinvigorate democratic value and foster a moe just and equitable society.

In the process, Students will develop leadership skills through learning about and practicing dialogue across difference in a collaborative sensitivity to and knowledge about oppression and cultural diversity, as well as increases the personal and group capacity to work for social and economic equality and justice around differences in race/ethnicity, gender, culture, religion, sexual orientation, and ability status.

This course includes group meditation and dialogue skills and their applications in multicultural settings; group processes and dynamics; social identity group development; prejudice and stereotyping and their effects on groups; difference and dominance and the nature of social oppression, cultural cues and judgments; our personal and interpersonal connections to power, privilege, and oppression; recognizing and resolving conflicts or resistance; methods of dialoguing and coalition building across differences.

The course will consist of weekly reflection journals, active participation and regular attendance in class, co-facilitation of an intergroup group dialogue, and a final reflection paper.

Please fill out the brief application form found here: https://goo.gl/forms/JCWYPBKt0RI5PhRF3. Upon completion, we will give you the course enrollment information sometime September 5th through 9th through email once the application is complete. Selections are on a first come basis on the application submission.