UDialogue

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Intergroup dialogue is a face-to-face facilitated conversation between members of two or more social identity groups that strives to create new levels of understanding, relating, and action (Xuniga, 2003)

 

Overview

The UDialogue program provides an opportunity for participants to engage in dialogue across differences. In this year-long program, a cohort of committed participants learn about and discuss social identities and intersectionality with a focus on building bridges. The program focuses on understanding perspectives and ideas that facilitate intellectual advancement as well as personal development as members of the UM community and the larger community in which we are situated. Participants will emerge as leaders in the creation of inclusive spaces, from classrooms to labs and beyond.

By participating in UDialogue, you’ll be able to:

  • Develop critical thinking skills around issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion
  • Build facilitation skills to engage with individuals from varied backgrounds
  • Understand social justice issues from a local and global perspective
  • Develop communication skills for conflict resolution and team building
  • Develop multicultural competence

The UDialogue program includes professional development programs for both faculty and graduate students. Cohorts meet approximately once per month during the academic year. Enrollment is limited. If you are interested in enrolling, please apply using the links below: 

Application: Closed for Fall 2024.

Here’s what participants are saying about UDialogue:

UDialogue participant

"I believe that ignorance leads to misunderstanding and fear, which leads to anger and hate. This program, just by the very nature of bringing diverse individuals together to have rich conversations about important topics is the type of thing that cures that issue at the root--it allows people to know each other, understand each other, and as a result, appreciate and care for one another more deeply." 

UDialogue participant

"Good readings, excellent facilitation, meaningful conversations with colleagues with diverse life experiences. The structured exercises were particularly thought-provoking. Excellent all around!" 

UDialogue participant

"We live in an environment where sensitive issues are often suppressed in fear of offending someone if we speak our minds. The UDialogue program helped me realize that not only is it OK to talk about these things, but that dialogue is an essential aspect to trying to resolve them." 
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