CDP Resource: Listening & Learning with "I" Statements

Episode 1. Intergroup Dialogue

This resource is an accompaniment to our podcast, “I” Statements, where people with different identities come together to share their own beliefs, experiences, and perspectives, demonstrating both the power and the possibility inherent in communicating across difference.

Episode transcript

Episode Overview

In this episode, Baba, Jeannie, and Rachel talk about intergroup dialogue. Reflecting on interactions with fellow students, teammates, and colleagues, these three describe some of the challenges and opportunities they’ve experienced when having candid conversations about social identity.

Discussion Questions

  • This episode has a recurring theme about being curious about yourself as well those around you. What is the value in being curious about your own identities and the identities of others?
  • Baba shared an experience in which he was able to use dialogue skills to connect with others who had a very different opinion than he did. How do you/could you connect with others when you strongly disagree with them? What is the impact of this kind of connection?
  • At one point, Jeannie describes her willingness to have her assumptions proven wrong and how this openness requires vulnerability. What does vulnerability mean to you? When do you feel capable of being vulnerable, and what makes it challenging for you to demonstrate vulnerability?

Writing Prompt

The idea of bringing one’s whole self into the classroom is mentioned a few times in this episode. Reflecting on one learning experience you’ve had (e.g., in a class, in a workplace, in a group or organization), answer the following questions: How much did you feel like you could “bring your whole self” and be authentic there? Why? How was your ability to learn and connect with others affected?

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About CDP Resources

Written by the Center for Dialogue & Pluralism (CDP), CDP Resources are intended for noncommercial, educational use by members of the Cornell community. This content represents CDP’s intellectual property and may not be reproduced or repurposed for commercial use without prior written permission.

For inquiries about reprint or linking permissions, please contact dialogue@cornell.edu.