The Office of Inclusion and Belonging in Student Affairs will host “United in Dialogue — Can We Talk?” from 6 to 8 p.m. Nov. 11, which is open to all students, faculty and staff, regardless of identity or background.
During an Office of Inclusion and Belonging staff retreat and subsequent conversations with student leaders, both staff and students shared that, “given the current national climate, many individuals are struggling to have open and honest conversations — often fearing they might offend others or be misunderstood,” said Linda Williams-Moore, interim executive director of the office.
“This program was created as a response to that need — to provide a brave, respectful and inclusive space where people can engage in meaningful conversations that matter without judgment or pressure to change one another’s views,” she said. “Instead, the goal is to foster understanding, empathy and the ability to coexist in shared space, even when perspectives differ.”
Faculty are welcome to bring their classes or encourage their classes to attend the event in the William Pitt Union Assembly Room. Registration is required, since a light meal will be served.
Williams-Moore and members of the Office of Inclusion and Belonging staff will lead the conversations and several staff members will serve as table facilitators throughout the evening to help guide small-group discussions, encourage participation, and ensure that the dialogue remains respectful and productive.
The specific topics will be determined by participants through the registration process, allowing the dialogue to reflect the issues most relevant to them. These may include a broad range of themes such as health care, race, policies, politics, or other subjects identified as difficult or uncomfortable to discuss with peers.
“The intent is to let students shape the conversation and engage in authentic dialogue around what truly matters to them,” Williams-Moore said.
— Susan Jones
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