Local Interethnic Dialogues on Immigration
Local Dialogues
- Grand Rapids MI April 28
- Miami FL May 7
- Boston MA May 12
- Omaha NE May 16
- Syracuse NY May 24
- Atlanta GA June 1
- Chicago IL June 15
- Columbus OH, June 26
- New Haven, CT July 12
(all dates subject to change)
How local dialogues come together
Stage 1: Identifying and Gathering
The point of the dialogues is to bring out a variety of views within a community. The first stage is therefore the identification and gathering of groups and individuals interested in joining the dialogue. Once a diverse group has been developed, a date for the dialogue will be set.
Stage 2: The Dialogue
Dialogues will use “Open Space Technology” (www.openspaceworld.org), which enables groups of various sizes to share diverse views and move toward unity. Participants come prepared to discuss one or two immigration-related issues important to their community. An agenda is created around those issues. At the end of the day, time is set aside for strategic planning to ensure the implementation of action steps that arise from the discussions.
Stage 3: Action
As relationships form through the dialogue process, action steps are identified and implemented. We are committed to helping participants follow through on action steps that arise.
Stage 4: Do It Again!
Dialogues can be an ongoing event in your community. Church World Service is also organizing a national dialogue to connect your community with others that are dialoguing on immigration.