April 14-24, 2020 is National Week of Conversation
What is National Week of Conversation
In 2018, Pearce Godwin held the first National Week of Conversation. This week was dedicated to taking a step back from our normal discourse in an attempt to gaining a perspective and insight; and to listen to each other with respect, tolerance, and understanding to create better relationships by Talking-Face-To-Face with one another. National Week of Conversation encourages the use of Face-To-Face conversations to build stronger relationships, to bridge communication gaps, and create a broader sense of understanding and connectedness.
The National Week of Conversation is a chance for members of the South Texas College campus community to come together to #ListenFirst. The goal is to engage in civil conversation, not to force agreement or discourage open discussion.
This year the National Week of Conversation will take place from April 17 to April 24 in communities all across the country. During this week, everyone is invited to participate in a conversation, with an emphasis being on Talking-Face-To-Face with people who are from different backgrounds and who may have different views about a variety of topics. At South Texas College, these conversations will be facilitated using the Circle Process.
What is the Circle Process?
The Circle Process was found in the Native American cultures of the United States and Canada, and are used for many purposes. The Circle Process is a powerful tool that can be used to create an environment of shared dialogue and understanding. The Circle Process creates a structured and safe forum for individuals to listen and be heard with respect, tolerance, and understanding.
The Circle Process utilizes a set of mutually agreed upon discussion rules, and a “The Talking Piece”, which is a critical element of creating a space in which all participants can speak from a deep place of truth. The holder of the “The Talking Piece” has the opportunity to talk while others have the opportunity to listen without the need to respond.
Discussion Topic for 2020
Free Speech/ Freedom of Expression – SB18 Relating to the protection of expressive activities at public institutions of higher education.
For more information about the National Week of Conversation go to:
For more information on the #ListenFirst project go to:
