The Courage to Engage: Facilitating Meaningful Dialogue on Sensitive Topics with Dignity as Our Guide
facilitated by Kirsten Helmer, from the Center for Teaching and Learning.
Content
Instructors face increasing pressure navigating sensitive topics in polarized times. This workshop positions human dignity as our "north star" for facilitating challenging conversations. Rather than avoiding controversy, we will explore how creating dialogic spaces becomes resistance against polarization. Participants will be introduced to the LARA framework (Listen, Affirm, Respond, Add/Ask), explore interventions like "circuit breaker" activities, and develop strategies for "going deeper in" while upholding values. Through interactive scenarios, we will build collective wisdom about sustaining dialogue across differences.