Dialogue at Butler
What is Dialogue?
Dialogue is a form of communication in which people from diverse perspectives seek to increase their understanding of a specific topic or issue. The dialogue process involves actively listening, inviting differences of opinion, and finding places of agreement to identify common ground, build relationships, and move toward collaborative action.
Please view this link to learn about the difference between debate, discussion, and dialogue.
Kachwaha, T. (2002). Exploring the Differences Between Dialogue, Discussion, and Debate [Infographic]. University of Michigan.
Dialogues present many benefits and give campus members the opportunity to:
- learn about lived experiences and backgrounds that differ from their own
- converse about potentially polarizing or difficult topics in a constructive manner
- challenge their biases and assumptions
- identify new ideas and solutions
Getting Involved in Dialogue at Butler
Open to various audiences, the following, facilitated dialogues will allow diverse perspectives to engage in conversations to create common ground and deeper understanding amongst Butler community members.
Interactional Diversity Dialogue:
Also known as “Diversity Dialogues”, these monthly, open-to-all, sessions occur in I-LEAD (JH186), and provide campus members the chance to develop effective dialogue skills, expand their worldview, and gain a deeper curiosity about the world. Visit the I-LEAD webpage to learn more about these dialogues and the DEI calendar to see upcoming dialogues.
Deliberative Dialogue:
A Deliberative Dialogue is an opportunity for people to engage each other on a challenging issue. Using data and a dialogue format created by the National Issues Forum Institute, participants will be presented with three distinct solutions to a difficult challenge we face in society. The facilitators will create time for open discussion and reflection across different points of view. At the end of the deliberation, participants are encouraged to identify where they stand on the issue, at least for now.
On October 1, 2024 from 6:00-7:30 pm, the Efryomson Diversity Center and the Compass Center will host a deliberative dialogue titled “A House Divided” that focuses on the question “How do we get the political system we want?”. Please visit the Compass Center on Instagram for more information and to RSVP for this dialogue. While the target audience is students, other members of the campus community can attend.
Intergroup Dialogue:
Intergroup dialogues are ongoing, facilitated face-to-face conversations between people from different social identity groups with a history of conflict. These dialogues help participants understand their commonalities and differences, develop dialogue skills to address conflicts, and move toward collective social change. Intergroup dialogues are centered around social justice-related topics. The Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion alongside campus partners will invite members of the Butler community to engage in upcoming Intergroup Dialogues as opportunities arise.