Building Bridges Across Difference: A Dialogue for Every Day

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 16:05:12 -0500
community, dialogue, diversity, equity, inclusion

Overall Series Description:

The Building Bridges Across Difference: A Dialogue for Every Day series equips faculty, staff, and students with practical tools to foster connection and understanding across differences in today’s polarized climate. Grounded in the Center for Social Justice Dialogue's commitment to shared power and inclusive practices, this series provides strategies to build trust, navigate challenging and emotionally charged moments, and create environments that encourage community and mutual respect. By embracing intergroup dialogue practices daily, participants will enhance their ability to inspire critical self-reflection, cultural storytelling, generous listening, and loving accountability.

All sessions will take place on Wednesdays from 11:30 - 1:30 pm and will be held VIRTUALLY.

If you have accessibility needs, please email csjdialogue@umbc.edu.

Session Descriptions:

1. Setting the Tone - Dr. Ciara Christian + Caleb Ruck

RSVP: https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/csjd/events/137090
This session focuses on laying the groundwork for a dialogic community environment. Participants will explore strategies to establish trust, build relationships across difference, and create inclusive norms. Drawing on principles of circle pedagogy and shared power, attendees will learn how to set intentions that invite curiosity and co-create a sense of belonging amongst diverse groups.

2. Navigating Hot Moments - Dr. Jasmine Lee + Dr. Ciara Christian

RSVP: https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/csjd/events/137091
University campuses are spaces where challenging conversations can arise unexpectedly. In this session, participants will develop tools to navigate "hot moments"—those intense or emotionally charged situations—while maintaining a commitment to inclusion and shared learning. Through case studies and interactive practice, attendees will strengthen their ability to hold space for difficult dialogues and navigate identity-based differences with empathy, clarity, and compassion.
3. Activities & Toolkit - Dr. Jasmine Lee + Dr. Ciara Christian + Caleb Ruck
RSVP: https://my3.my.umbc.edu/groups/csjd/events/137093
This session offers a practical exploration of dialogic activities and tools that bring theory into action. Participants will engage with adaptable exercises designed to engage critical self-reflection, deepen cultural storytelling, foster generous listening, and cultivate loving accountability. Participants will leave with a toolkit of strategies to facilitate meaningful dialogues and transform classroom dynamics into spaces of connection, reflection, and empowerment.