Building Safe Spaces and Expanding Dialogue Part 3

Final re-capped session from 27 April session with Elischia. 

In this portion of the re-cap, we explore how to expand dialogue in safe spaces you create and beyond.

Ways to Expand Dialogue

• Let other people take the lead from time to time. You can learn from everyone you come across but you have to be open to it. Sometimes we miss something really profound because we’re busy taking initiative.
• Consciously seek out different opinions by going to places where you are not sure if you would like the opinions. You are not just there to learn from them, but you may also feel secure enough to give your opinion in a way that still respects their views. It is ok to push back on opinions, even if you will not be popular for doing so. Some people will respect it, some won’t, but if you’ve used peace principles that we’ve talked about throughout this series, the likelihood of the situation being successful increases.
• Make thoughtful comments. Don’t just speak to hear yourself speak. Say something that has not already been said, but add value to the discussion.
• Don’t be silent, silence does not give consent. If you prefer to listen, just say that, people understand that not everyone wants to talk. Just don’t silence your voice on all topics at all times. Others in the group should not either, so if you find someone silent a lot, give the floor to them.
• Invite people of different backgrounds to the table.

Are there other ways you expand dialogue?