Cora J. Belden Library: Courageous Conversations

Press release from Cora J. Belden Library:

January 27, 2022

Saturday, Jan. 29, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

Have you ever wondered how someone on the other side of the political fence could possibly have the opinions they do? Have you avoided talking to friends or family members because you know you disagree with them about religion? Are you interested in understanding others more, especially people who disagree with you?

Courageous Conversations is a small-group discussion series that will provide an opportunity for people of all backgrounds and viewpoints to discuss important local, cultural, social, and political issues in a safe environment where differing opinions, patient listening, and respectful discussion are welcomed as a necessary part of building connection with others and identifying shared values.

Participants may be asked to read short articles, books, or listen to podcasts prior to the meetings and will be asked to abide by our shared discussion guidelines.

Library staff will facilitate the conversations and ensure that all participants have the opportunity to share in the discussion.

The first discussion in this series will follow a book club format. Participants are asked to read ONE of the following books: Beyond Your Bubble: How to Connect Across the Political Divide, Skills and Strategies for Conversations that Work by Tania Israel or I Think You're Wrong (But I'm Listening):

A Guide to Grace-Filled Political Conversations by Sarah Stewart Holland and Beth Silvers. Please contact the library for a copy of the book of your choice. We will discuss the books and identify key guidelines for managing these sometimes-difficult conversations. Each subsequent discussion will focus on one political or social issue, such as Health Care, Criminal Justice, Social Safety Nets, Gun Control, Worker's Rights, etc.

This program will be hybrid. When registering, please specify whether you will be attending in person, at the Berlin-Peck Memorial Library or via Zoom.

This press release was produced by Cora J. Belden Library. The views expressed here are the author’s own.