Art of the Conversation
Community Conversations are facilitated dialogues on selected topics held via Zoom. Dialogues generally last an hour and a half. A facilitator provides the structure for the conversation with all being invited to speak within the process or pass if more comfortable simply listening. We invite you to our Zoom Living Room, an open, trusted space. Community members come together to relate and connect. An invitation to share perspectives, generate understanding, build relationships, and ultimately strengthen the community.
Upcoming Conversations
Facilitator: TBD
Date: TBD
Time: TBD
Duration: 2-hours
Location: TBD
Fee: Free
Questions? Contact KeyShawn at khousey@mediationsavannah.com
Ground Rules to Ensure a Safe Environment for Conversation
These ground rules and our Community Conversations are inspired by Living Room Conversations.
Be curious and listen to understand.
Conversation is as much about listening as it is about talking. You might enjoy exploring how others’ experiences have shaped their values and perspectives.
Show respect and suspend judgment.
People tend to judge one another. Setting judgment aside opens you up to learning from others and makes them feel respected and appreciated. Try to truly listen, without interruption or crosstalk.
Note any common ground as well as any differences.
Look for areas of agreement or shared values that may arise and take an interest in the differing beliefs and opinions of others.
Be authentic and welcome that from others.
Share what’s important to you. Speak from your experience. Be considerate of others who are doing the same.
Be purposeful and to the point.
Do your best to keep your comments concise and relevant to the question you are answering. Be conscious of sharing airtime with other participants.
Own and guide the conversation.
Take responsibility for the quality of your participation and the conversation as a whole. Be proactive in getting yourself and others back on track if needed. Use an agreed-upon signal if you feel the agreements are not being honored.
Suggestions: If you have any suggestions for Community Conversation topics, please email Jill at jcheeks@mediationsavannah.com