national coalition for dialogue and deliberation

Berkana Institute Organizing Southern Africa Learning Journey

The Berkana Institute invites participants for a Learning Journey to South Africa and Zimbabwe that will open your eyes, minds and hearts to essential learning about the leadership that is emerging in one of our planet's most vibrant places. On this journey, participants will meet and learn with extraordinary pioneering leaders in Johannesburg, South Africa, and at Zimbabwe's Kufunda Learning Village. The Learning Journey will also spend time learning from the wildlife of Africa whose grace and beauty and interdependent relationships are an inspiration. Marianne Knuth, part of the Shambhala Institute's hosting team and founder of Kufunda, will join Berkana Institute Co-President Bob Stilger as hosts of this journey. Together participants explore innovative approaches to leadership that offer new possibilities for making a difference in our own lives. For more information about the Southern Africa Learning Journey, taking place October 30 - November 11, 2006, visit the Berkana Institute's website: www.berkana.org or contact Jeana Corbett, Learning Journey Coordinator,

Added by Amy Lang on July 31, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Shambhala Institute Announces Art of Hosting and Convening Workshop

The Shambhala Institute has just announced an upcoming workshop: The Art of Hosting and Convening Meaningful Conversations with Toke Moeller, Monika Nissen, and Sera Thompson. This workshop explores the art of convening the conversations most important to our communities, families and organizations. You will learn a variety of methods and practices for engaging in conversations that matter which create wise action and clear outcomes. The workshop will take place in Yarmouth County, Nova Scotia - August 14-16, 2006. For more information, contact .

Added by Amy Lang on July 31, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Authentic Leadership in Europe Workshop Coming Up in December

The Shambhala Institute has just announced an upcoming workshop called "Authentic Leadership in Europe: Empowering the Journey through Circle, Brush & Sword." In this intensive participants will increase their capacity for presence, courage, and flexibility. They will practice stepping back to allow creativity to emerge and stepping forward when intervention is called for, and will learn how to design change processes that include both broad engagement and a concrete plan of action. This intensive is for leaders and entrepreneurs of all levels-team or project leaders, facilitators, managers, executives, community builders, and other agents of change. The workshop will be led by oke Moeller, Barbara Bash & Bob Wing, from December 6-9, 2006 at the Heinsheim Castle Hotel, 1.5 hours south of Frankfurt, Germany. For more information, email Susan Szpakowski at .

Added by Amy Lang on July 29, 2006??-??Link to this entry

National Issues Forums Public Voice 2006 Program Now Available Online

The National Issues Forums (NIF) website (www.nifi.org) now has information (including a video clip to watch) about this year?’s ?“A Public Voice 2006?”?—an annually produced one-hour public affairs television program that examines how well the United States public is tackling an important public issue. The program for 2006 is titled: ?“People and Politics: Facing Democracy?’s Challenge?” and includes glimpses inside some of the National Issues Forums around the country where people have held deliberative discussions using the NIF issue book ?“Democracy?’s Challenge: Reclaiming the Public?’s Role.?” The television program also features a panel of office holders, experts, and members of the media as they view and discuss excerpts from forums held earlier this year. You can watch a clip from this new program and find more information about the ?“A Public Voice?” series, including a current listing of public television stations around the country that have made commitments to air this year?’s ?“A Public Voice 2006.?” Links to all this information and to a page that will let you watch a clip from this year?’s program (or from last year?’s program) can be found in the lower left hand side of the NIF homepage. To order a copy of this video, contact Ruffolo at , call 800-600-4060, or FAX: 937-435-7367.

Added by Amy Lang on July 29, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Peace It Together Gala Event Coming Up in Vancouver

Peace it Together is an important youth program that brings ten Israeli, ten Palestinian and ten Canadian youth together to discuss conflict in the Middle East. Together they will create short films that will help them and their audiences struggle with, and come to terms with the escalating violence that continues to impact their lives. After getting to know each other for a few days in the city, the youth will gather on Galiano Island at the Gulf Islands Film and Television School. Activities will focus on dialogue and listening exercises, leadership training, outdoor and wilderness experiences, and film-making. In small and culturally-mixed groups, the youth will collaborate on creating drama, documentary or animated short films about how the conflict impacts their lives, hopes and fears. The summer program will culminate in a public screening of the films in Vancouver. All are invited to the Peace it Together Gala on Sunday, August 20th at the HR MacMillan Space Centre, 1100 Chestnut Street, at 7:00 PM. For more information, visit the program's website: www.creativepeacenetwork.ca/camp/2006.htm

Added by Amy Lang on July 25, 2006??-??Link to this entry

New Publications from Public Conversations Project

The Public Conversations Project (www.publicconversations.org) has two new publications. Fostering Dialogue Across Divides: A Nuts and Bolts Guide from the Public Conversations Project is an extensive resource describing PCP's core principles and practices, offering advice about working with conveners and planning committees, and providing step-by-step suggestions for multi-session as well as single-session dialogues. PCP's new guide also includes sample formats, sample invitations, and suggested questions on a range of topics. Second, Constructive Conversations About the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: A Guide for Convening and Facilitating Dialogue in Jewish Communities in the US was written in close collaboration with the Jewish Dialogue Group in Philadelphia, which has had extensive experience in the field using PCP's general approach and methods in Jewish communities on the topic of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It includes an appendix on Jewish texts and dialogue. Both guides are available at PCP's website as pdf downloads for a voluntary donation. Nicely printed and bound copies of both guides can be purchased at www.cafepress.com/pcp_press. The multi-issue dialogue guide is $21 plus shipping & handling and the intra-Jewish dialogue guide is $18 plus shipping & handling. The intra-Jewish dialogue guide also is available from the Jewish Dialogue Group, www.jewishdialogue.org. You can also take a workshop offered by the lead author of the guides this November - to learn more, click below.

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Added by Amy Lang on July 18, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Open Society Institute Announces New Guidelines for Unsolicited Grants

The Open Society Institute's Information Program (www.soros.org/initiatives/information/about/) has announced application instructions for grantseeking organizations that aim to enhance the ability to access, exchange, and produce knowledge and information; and to use new tools and techniques to empower civil society. Projects supported by the program are intended to benefit developing and transition countries. As a general rule, the Information Program prefers to receive grant applications made on behalf of an organization rather than an individual. The program also prefers to fund project proposals rather than core funding requests. Funded activities in the past have included information and knowledge capacity-building events; technology and policy analysis; advocacy campaigns; and innovative projects that test new ground. The Information Program funds projects within three main focus areas: Access to Knowledge; Civil Society Communication; and Open Information Policy. The Information Program will review unsolicited proposals four times during 2006: the remaining deadlines for submission are September 30 and December 31, 2006. Proposals must be submitted in English. The program requests that applicants submit proposal outlines, rather than sending fully developed proposals. Visit the OSI Web site for complete program information and submission requirements.

Added by Amy Lang on July 10, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Volunteer Facilitation Opportunity Coming Up in Chicago

This summer the Northeastern Illinois Planning Commission and AmericaSpeaks (www.americaspeaks.org) are organizing one of the biggest townhall meetings ever in Chicago. This event is for the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME). It is a town hall meeting for up to 4,000 of its members to talk about the future of this union. They are currently seeking 400 table facilitators to participate in the event. If you are willing and able to volunteer a full day of your time on Thursday, Aug 10, please contact Diane B. Burke for a facilitator application form at Fax: 202-429-1064 or Email: .

Added by Amy Lang on June 30, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Dialogue Mapping Workshop Coming Up in Washington, DC

This July 19-20, 2006 Dr. Jeff Conklin will hold a workshop on Dialogue Mapping in Washington DC. This facilitation technique gets away from herding the group through a series of steps, focusing the participants instead on listening carefully, speaking clearly, and learning together about the issues and concerns they bring to the table. The facilitator/dialogue mapper engages the group with a map of their comments that he or she builds on the fly. The map is a shared display -- paper taped to the wall or software projected on a screen. The "secret sauce" of dialogue mapping is the use of the Issue Based Information System (IBIS) notation: Questions, Ideas, and Pros/Cons. The IBIS framework frees the group from tyranny of agreement. Conflicting information and points of view reside next to each other in the map, reflecting the diversity of the stakeholders and the complexity of a wicked problem. Cost is $995, with significant discounts for groups of 2 or more colleagues. For more information: Email or see http://cognexus.org for more information and to register.

Added by Amy Lang on June 29, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Non Violent Communication Workshop Coming Up in Brooklyn, NY

This July, Brooklyn Nonviolent Communication and New Yorkers for a Department of Peace will be offer the "Zen and the Art of Conflict" a course in Nonviolent Communication. Taking place four consecutive Sundays starting July 9, the course will meet from 1-6 pm with child care available (for those who request it in advance). This popular course gives a new way to view conflict, as an opportunity for connection and authenticity. The course fee is on a sliding scale (from $275-$400) and some work exchange and payment plans are available. Pre-registration is required and no prior training in Nonviolent Communication is needed. For more information about the course and to register, visit www.BrooklynNVC.org, email or call 718-797-9525.

Added by Amy Lang on June 22, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Nonviolent Communication Training Coming Up in New York

Rita Herzog and Roberta Wall will lead a week-long workshop called "Nonviolent Communication: Learning the Language of Compassion" from July 10-16 at the Elat Chayyim retreat center in Accord NY. In this week-long workshop participants will learn and practice the art of Nonviolent Communication (NVC) as developed by Marshall Rosenberg. Nonviolent Communication is seen as a powerful tool for peacefully resolving differences at personal, professional, and political levels. These skills have been successfully applied to parents and families, health care, educational, and work settings, social services, police and prisons, and social change organizations. Using compassionate communication, the workshop will connect to teachings about speech and listening within Judaism, and incorporate Jewish rituals to connect. Participants will learn how to discuss and listen to others about the Israeli/Palestinian conflict, holding an open heart and expressing ourselves with deep honesty.

Rita has been an NVC practitioner and trainer for twenty years. Roberta has just returned from teaching NVC at the Gandhi Institute in Delhi. For more information or to register, call (800) 398-2630 or visit JewishRetreatCenter.org.

Added by Amy Lang on June 16, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Public Conversations Project Has a New Executive Director

The Public Conversations Project (www.publicconversations.org) has hired Cherry Muse as its new executive director. Cherry brings impressive experience in all aspects of non-profit leadership as well as understanding of and commitment to PCP's mission. Laura Chasin, PCP's co-founder and executive director of 17 years, is shifting into the role of chair of PCP¹s board of directors. To read more about this transition, click on the link below.

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Added by Amy Lang on June 13, 2006??-??Link to this entry

American Library Association Focusing on Civic Engagement

The American Library Association (ALA) has recently developed a focus on civic engagement. Invigorated by questions like "What has gone wrong with our democracy, and what should we do about it?" and "what is the public's role in democracy?" the ALA Fostering Civic Engagement Membership Initiative Group (MIG) will sponsor a Forum on Democracy's Challenge, Saturday, June 24, 2006, 1:30-3:30, at the upcoming ALA Annual Conference in New Orleans. This forum is particularly important because it is critical to the success of a democracy that citizens learn how to deal with complex issues in company with people of diverse opinions. Anyone attending the conference is welcome to the workskhop. For more information on the Civic Engagement Membership Initiative Group, contact the MIG Co-Conveners: Nancy Kranich, ; Taylor Willingham, or Mary Ghikas, .

Added by Amy Lang on May 14, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Nonviolent Communication Workshop Coming Up in New York

Roberta Wall will present Nonviolent Communication 101, a free workshop on Nonviolent Communication (NVC) for women this Wednesday, May 17th, 7-9:30 pm at the Red Tent Women?’s Project. NVC skills, as formulated by Marshall Rosenberg, help us express feelings and needs without attacking, to make requests without demanding, to receive seemingly critical or negative messages without taking them personally, giving up or giving in. The Red Tent Women?’s Project is the only women?’s community center in New York City. They welcome all who identify as women to the Red Tent Women?’s Project, whatever your walk of life, race, ethnicity, age, spiritual path, sexual orientation, country of origin, citizenship status, size, or socioeconomic level. It is located in Park Slope, Brooklyn at 338 4th Street between 5th & 6th Avenues in the ground floor apartment. For more information, call 718-866-5859 or check www.redtentwomensproject.org.

Added by Amy Lang on May 14, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Non Violent Communication Conference Coming Up June 30-July 2

A Non Violent Communication (NVC) "Compassion in Action" conference is being organized for June 30 - July 2nd in Oakland, California. This event is geared towards NVC people in the US coming together to support and network with each-other. The gathering costs $350 - $260 per participant to attend 9that includes room & board costs). More information on this event can be found here:
www.cnvc.org/usa-community-building-gathering.htm and here: www.baynvc.org/calendar/view_entry.php?id=CD1004&date=20060629.

Added by Amy Lang on May 12, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Non Violent Communication Conference Coming Up June 30-July 2

A Non Violent Communication (NVC) "Compassion in Action" conference is being organized for June 30 - July 2nd in Oakland, California. This event is geared towards NVC people in the US coming together to support and network with each-other. The gathering costs $350 - $260 per participant to attend 9that includes room & board costs). More information on this event can be found here:
www.cnvc.org/usa-community-building-gathering.htm and here: www.baynvc.org/calendar/view_entry.php?id=CD1004&date=20060629.

Added by Amy Lang on May 12, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Art of Convening Workshop Coming Up in San Francisco

The Presidio Dialogues (www.thepresidiodialogues.org) will be hosting a dialogue about "The Art of Light-Handed Convening" on May 23, 2006 at 7PM. Some of the questions they'll consider are: What habits do we need to let go of in order to have true dialogue? When does facilitation draw attention to the process or the moderator rather than furthering the inquiry? How does dialogue emerge from among a group of strangers, and what conditions are the most evocative for true inquiry? What role does individual ego play? Registration is at 7:00 PM and the meeting begins at 7:15 pm. The location is the Saybrook Graduate School and Research Center, 747 Front St. (@ Broadway) 3rd Floor, San Francisco. Cost is $20 in advance by registering online; $25 in advance (by email, phone or check); $30 at the door. To register online, go to the website listed above. Or email .

Added by Amy Lang on May 11, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Circle of One Gathering Coming Up in July

The Indigenous Issues Forums (IIF) is planning a three day workshop called "Circle of One," to be held July 6-8 in Rapid City, South Dakota. The workshop will develop and practice circle facilitation skills, will focus on how to work from our strengths as we strive to facilitate difficult dialogues across difference, to restore relationships to wholeness, and to provide safe and respectful spaces to make collective decisions together. The workshop will also feature children's activities, elder speak, arts, games and reflection. Registration fees are $300 for the three-day workshop. The fee includes workshop materials and meals. Children 12 and under are free. For more information, please contact members of the IIF team: Harley Eagle at 204-786-6372 or 204-997-4838 ; Ruth Yellowhawk at 605-574-2165, or Lily Mendoza-Ducheneaux 605-341-7534, . Please register by Friday June 23rd.

Added by Amy Lang on May 05, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Systems Sciences 50th Anniversary Conference Coming Up in July

This year the International Society for the Systems Sciences (ISSS) will be celebrating its 50th anniversary conference. The conference on the theme of ?”Complexity, Democracy & Sustainability" is happening from July 9-14, 2006 at Sonoma State University, 50 miles north of San Francisco. The ISSS is unique among systems-oriented institutions in the breadth of its scope, bringing together scholars and practitioners from academic, business, government, and non-profit communities to explore what Gregory Bateson has called the ?“pattern that connects.?” To submit proposals, or for more information on registration, visit www.isss.org/conferences/sonoma2006.

Added by Amy Lang on April 28, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Public Conversations Project Announces 2006 Training Lineup

Public Conversations Project (PCP) organizes high quality conversations on publicly divisive issues. They provide some of the highest-quality trainings in the field of dialogue and deliberation, aimed at mediators, HR managers, educators, therapists, parents, social workers, clergy, students, and anyone else who might like to participate in the work of dialogue facilitation. PCP has just announced its 2006 workshop line-up, with meetings taking place throughout the country staring May 5 through November. To register, call Manda at 888-PCP-TEAM x13 or email . To learn more, visit www.publicconversations.org. And to see a list of workshop dates, locations and descriptions, click on the link below.

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Added by Amy Lang on April 28, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Compassionate Listening Workshop Coming Up in Toronto

Susan Partnow will be in Toronto to present ?“The Fundamentals of Compassion Listening?” on April 27. In Compassionate Listening, the emphasis is on strengthening the influence of the heart through cultivating compassion for ourselves and others, and learning to listen and speak from the heart ?— even in the heat of conflict. Susan is a consultant in Seattle Washington. She serves on the Steering Committee of National Coalition on Dialogue and Deliberation, Advisory Board to The Radical Middle Newsletter (a project of the Center for Visionary Law, Business, and Public Policy ), co-founded Conversation Cafe and Let's Talk America, and founded Global Citizen Journey. Metro-Toronto Central YMCA; 20 Grosvenor St (near Yonge and College); 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. The fee for this workshop is $155 including GST and materials. To learn more (or register on-line) see www.leadingedgeseminars.org. For information or instant registration phone 416-964-1133 (outside of Toronto 1-888-291-1133).

Added by Amy Lang on April 25, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Harwood Leads Blog Conversation on Convening

Starting Monday April 24, Rich Harwood will be blogging about the important insights and lessons from a recent convening the Harwood Institute led in Las Vegas. He will be joined by three guest bloggers who attended the convening: David Hooker, vice president of community building, Center for Working Families, Inc. (Atlanta, GA); Reggie Lewis, executive vice president for community impact, United Way of Essex and West Hudson (Newark, NJ); and Nancy Wilson, director and associate dean, University College of Citizenship and Public Service, Tufts University (Medford, MA). Their thoughts will post on Tuesday. Rich will respond again, and our hope is that this conversation will continue throughout the week, with other guests of the convening and all people in our online community joining in to share their thoughts and ideas. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to participate. Vist Rich's blog at www.theharwoodinstitute.org/rcharwood/weblog/index.html.

Added by Amy Lang on April 24, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Fetzer Institute Seeking Senior Program Officer for Individual and Community Transformation

The Fetzer Institute (www.fetzer.org) is currently seeking a"Senior Program Officer" position for the area of "Individual and Community Transformation." Fetzer is looking for someone who will work out of their offices in Kalamazoo, MI. To see an extended discussion of the job responsibilities and expected qualifications, please visit www.fetzer.org/WhatsNew.aspx?PageID=WhatsNew&NavID=1. Applications are due by April 30, 2006, but this date is not firm and submissions will be accepted after that date until the position is filled. Please direct questions to or call Fetzer's Department of Human Relations at 269-375-2000.

Added by Amy Lang on April 20, 2006??-??Link to this entry

National Issues Forums Celebrates 25 Years With New Discussion Guide on Democracy

National Issues Forums is celebrating 25 years of convening forums to help put people's voices back into politics. As part of their celebrations they have extended an open invitation to become part of the National Issues Forums network and to use their newest issue book on "Democracy's Challenge: Reclaiming the Public's Role." This book tackles head-on the obstacles and issues people face in a democracy that appears to have nudged its citizens onto the sidelines. Democracy's Challenge forums encourage citizens to think about what they can do to strengthen the relationship that a democracy demands between the government and its people. The issue book presents three perspectives on the problem, each of which suggests a somewhat different course of action. Right now NIF has a limited time offer for free materials to use for convening a Democracy's Challenge forum. For information on how to order, and how to become part of the National Issues Forums networks, click on the link below.

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Added by Amy Lang on April 11, 2006??-??Link to this entry

New Discussion Guide On Poverty Available Onlinne

The Study Circles Resource Center and the Northwest Area Foundation have produced a new discussion guide called Thriving Communities?—Working together to move from poverty to prosperity for all. The guide is designed to help communities involve people in conversations that lead to community change. Field tested in 16 communities by more than 500 participants, the five-session discussion guide helps people look at poverty in their community and discuss what it looks like, why it exists, and what can and should be done about it. Jackson, Minn., a field-test site, already is seeing results. The community has acted on seven of the 15 ideas for change identified by participants in the study circles, including forming a new community foundation that already has contributions, and establishing a resource room where people can drop off items and pick up basic necessities such as dishes, pots, and pans. Thriving Communities is available for purchase from SCRC in English and Spanish. The publications can be downloaded for free at www.studycircles.org. SCRC is offering assistance to communities across the country that are using this guide.

Added by Amy Lang on April 06, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Strategic Conversation "Reimagining New Orleans" Coming Up in May

"Re-imagining New Orleans" after Hurricane Katrina is a four-day "council of elders" from May 25-28 at the Wildacres Retreat Center in western North Carolina that uses Appreciative Inquiry as an experiment in citizen democracy. Check out their news release
www.secondjourney.org/katrina/katrina_release.htm and the series of webpages, including a registration form at www.secondjourney.org/NewOrleans.htm.

Added by Amy Lang on April 05, 2006??-??Link to this entry

"Listening into the Future" Strategic Conversation Coming Up May 20-24

"Evolutionary Salons" are gatherings in which people share and explore how individuals, groups and societies can evolve more consciously and wisely. A third evolutionary salon is being organized for May 20-24, 2006, at the Chinook Center, a retreat setting located on Whidbey Island, an hour north of Seattle, Washington. For any questions contact . You can check out the stories of the first two salons (May 05 and Jan 06) at www.thegreatstory.org/ev-salon.html. The cost of the Salon is $280, and includes food costs. To register, please visit www.surveymonkey.com/s.asp?u=234701845896. To read more about the retreat, click on the link below.

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Added by Amy Lang on April 01, 2006??-??Link to this entry

World Urban Cafés Organized in Lead-Up to World Urban Forum

The World Urban Cafes are an innovative series of discussion and performance events on urban issues, taking place before and during the World Urban Forum (WUF) and World Youth Forum (WYF) to be held in Vancouver in June 2006. The World Urban Cafe events unite and engage diverse youth and their communities, while showcasing their ideas, action projects, and culture. To date there have been 68 Cafés on 4 continents, with over 20,000 participants. World Urban Cafes have set a new standard for community engagement, having engaged some of the most marginalized communities in the world. From the slums of Delhi and Nairobi, to aboriginal communities in Columbia, to the downtown eastside of Vancouver, World Urban Cafés are allowing the voices of these communities to be heard at the World Urban Forum. To find out about upcoming World Urban Cafe events, visit www.eya.ca/wuf. To take part in an online World Cafe, go to www.takingitglobal.org/themes/urban.

Added by Amy Lang on March 27, 2006??-??Link to this entry

CPC Organizing Appreciative Inquiry Summit in Chicago

The Corporation for Positive Change (CPC) is organizing an Appreciative Inquiry Summit from Apr 3, 2006 - Apr 6, 2006 in Chicago, IL. The AI Summit is a powerful approach to whole-system organizational change based on the principles and practices of Appreciative Inquiry as applied to large groups (30-3000 people). This workshop is led by AI pioneers Jim Ludema and Mike Mantel and is based on Jim's definitive book The Appreciative Inquiry Summit: A Practitioner's Guide for Leading Large Group Change. During the workshop, Jim and Mike will introduce the AI Summit methodology, share case stories of their work designing and facilitating large group AI Summits, and discuss applications of the AI Summit to strategic planning, corporate culture change, delivering exceptional customer service, vision and values clarification, global organizing and reinventing complex social systems such as health care. They will share stories and videos from their work in corporate, government, non-profit, and international settings. As a participant, you will be invited to bring a case study to work on during the workshop (i.e., a project in which you would like to use the AI Summit methodology). You will leave the workshop with a detailed plan and design for your Summit process. The cost of workshop is Standard: $1650; Groups of five or more: $1400 each; Non-Profit: $1350 and
Student: $1150. To register or for more information, contact the Corporation for Positive Change. Email: ; Phone: 505.751.1232; Fax : 505.751.1233;
Website: www.positivechange.org.

Added by Amy Lang on March 16, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Taos Institute Announces Workshop Line Up

This Spring the Taos Institute is offering a full array of Appreciative Inquiry workshops. The workshop offerings are sponsored by our board members, the advisory board members and our associates and reflect their interests, practices and gifts. All workshop content is in alignment with social construction ideas and is grounded in its theory and practices. Register through the workshop presenters. To see a full listing, descriptions and registration information visit: www.taosinstitute.net. To see a list of the workshops, click on the link below.

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Added by Amy Lang on March 16, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Three Dialogue Mapping Workshops Coming Up

Three Dialogue Mapping Workshops, lead by Dr. Jeff Conklin, will be held this April 18-19 in Redwood City, California (SF Bay Area); May 23-24 in Birmingham, England; and July 18-19 in Washington, DC. This 2-day workshop is highly engaging and interactive and teaches the core skills of a new facilitation technique. As with any art form, dialogue mapping is challenging to describe but easy to comprehend experientially. This technique gets away from herding the group through a series of steps, focusing the participants instead on listening carefully, speaking clearly, and learning together about the issues and concerns they bring to the table. The facilitator/dialogue mapper engages the group with a map of their comments that he or she builds on the fly. The map is a shared display ... paper taped to the wall or software projected on a screen. The "secret sauce" of dialogue mapping is the use of the Issue Based Information System (IBIS) notation: Questions, Ideas, and Pros/Cons. The IBIS framework frees the group from tyranny of agreement. Conflicting information and points of view reside next to each other in the map, reflecting the diversity of the stakeholders and the complexity of a wicked problem. Although this is not a software workshop, reference will be made to Compendium, graphical hypertext software available free at http://www.compendiuminstitute.org . Dialogue Mapping is a powerful new tool for collaboration and sense making, and this workshop is fun, stimulating, and rewarding. For more information on the workshops, or to register, visit http://cognexus.org/id18.htm.

Added by Amy Lang on March 16, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Pioneers of Change Organizing Upcoming Conferences in South Africa and Canada

Pioneers of Change, a global learning network of young people in their 20's and 30's, will be organizing several events and trainings this spring and summer. These include:

- A three-day course on leadership "Presencing Collective Leadership for Profound Innovation and Change" in Johannesburg, South Africa from March 30-April 1, 2006;

- A training in "The Art of Hosting and Convening Conversations" in Johannesburg South Africa from May 15-17, 2006 and a special youth version of the training in Castle Borl, Slovenia from 6 - 9 July 2006.

- The Pioneers of Change Summer School in The Shire - Nova Scotia, Canada from August 19-­ 25, 2006.

To find out more about each event, including contact information, click on the link below, or visit the Pioneers of Change website: http://pioneersofchange.net/

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Added by Amy Lang on March 14, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Presence Walkabouts Coming Up in Santa Fe

Glenna Gerard (www.glennagerard.net) has just announced that she will guide two Presence Walkabouts in Santa Fe, New Mexico from June 18-25 and Sept. 24-Oct. 1, 2006. ?“Presence?” means: paying attention to that which is immediate; noticing what is emerging; discerning what is important; listening deeply and responding authentically. A ?“Walkabout?” is an experiential practice of heightened awareness, moving upon and in partnership with the Land and Nature. Such connection with the natural environment invokes inner resonance that opens the individual and collective to different ways of knowing. This challenging practice of commitment to a Walkabout, originated with the indigenous peoples of Australia as a means of attuning with the powers of place (landscapes) and rhythm (seasons) in search of a deeper knowing and wisdom. The essential structure of this Walkabout is a weave of specifically selected practices for Presencing with intentional movement and deep listening on the Land. Each individual will use themselves as an instrument to gain clarity and to create new possibilities in their lives. They will in turn use their increased Presence and attunement to what is emerging to practice deep listening and conscious co-creation as a group. The people who step into the Presence Walkabout groups are expected to be willing to walk into unknown territories, i.e., at the edge of their present personal, social, political and economic narratives. They will gather to hone their individual capacities for Presence, while at the same time exploring the nature and practice of Collective Presencing. Each group is limited to 12-15 persons. For more information, visit www.glennagerard.net/pw_seasonal.pdf or contact Glenna Gerard directly at .

Added by Amy Lang on March 14, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Conference on Collective Wisdom Coming Up in Germany

Collective Wisdom:New Perspectives for Resolution in Small and Large Group Conflicts, Families, Social Groups and Politics is a conference taking place from Friday, 28 April 2006, 9:00 a.m. to Sunday 30 April 2006, 4:00 p.m. in Würzburg, Germany. The conference gathers together people from diverse fields to share their wisdom and build collective intelligence. The effects of collective intelligence are appearing as a topic world wide, in the natural sciences as well as the social sciences, under such names as: group-wisdom, cointelligence, transpersonal-creative knowledge or the zeropoint field. In various areas of enquiry, information from a shared field offers solutions that extend far beyond the best efforts of an individual and, at the same time, exercise a strong developmental influence on the individual. Among the presenters will be Robert Kenny, Rupert Sheldrake, Marshall Rosenberg, Eckhart Tolle, Tsultrim Allione, and individuals who have worked on resolving apparentlyintractable conflicts, including the Middle East, Rwanda and South Africa. Conference fees are 400 Euro for registration until 15 March 2006; 450 Euro for registration from 16 March 2006 to 28 April 2006 and a 50% reduction for students is available. The downloadable conference program can be found at www.congress06.collective-wisdom.org. The registration form is at www.congress06.collective-wisdom.org/kontakt_e.html. For more information or to register, contact: Dr. med. Albrecht Mahr ISAIL, FPA e. V.; Brigitta Mahr FAB e. V.; Mittlerer Dallenbergweg 37 a; 97082 Würzburg / GERMANY. Tel.: +49-(0)9 31-78 40 100
Fax: +49-(0)9 31-78 40 101 or Mobile: +49-(0)172-6 61 29 55. Email:
or
Internet information can be found at www.mahrsysteme.de.

Added by Amy Lang on March 14, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Join the OrangeBand Anti-Apathy Campaign

The OrangeBand initative (www.OrangeBand.org), a group dedicated to promoting civil conversations about important issues, is challenging 10,000 people to add their voice to the new online OrangeBand Mosaic. You will also be able to start a profile in the new OrangeBand Online Community. Visit http://orangeband.org/profile/image.php to sign up to participate in the anti-apathy campaign.

Added by Amy Lang on March 13, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Sustained Dialogue Conference Coming Up April 7-9

This year's Sustained Dialogue Campus Network (SDCN) National Conference will be held at Princeton University in Princeton, NJ. The conference title this year is "Returning to our Roots". The SDCN National Conference is open to current SD practitioners and interested parties alike. It will feature workshops on Saturday and Sunday designed to introduce Sustained Dialogue as a process, help student leaders build programs on their campuses, help moderators lead their groups and more. It's also a great chance to meet, share, and network with students engaged in dialogue from all over the country! If you are a member of an SD organization at your school, make sure you've talked to your Student Leaders about attending the conference, and have them sign you up. If you're not currently involved with SD, but would like to learn more about our efforts, there's no better place than the conference to do just that?—feel free to contact us () for more information. All SD Alums are invited to join the conference. For conference, lodging, hotel, and transportation information, visit www.sdcampusnetwork.org/conference_information.htm.

Added by Amy Lang on March 13, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Bohmian Dialogue Training Coming up In MT

Lee Nichol, editor of David Bohm's books On Dialogue and On Creativity will be hosting an intensive workshop of inquiry and focused intention from May 18th - 21st in Helena, MT. Bohmian dialogue is an arena in which collective learning takes place and out of which a sense of increased harmony, fellowship and creativity can arise. Participants will gain a greater understanding of inner mental, emotional and spiritual proccesses and experience the deeper meaning of collective communication. The cost of the workshop is $150 and limited spaces are available. Pre-registration is necessary. Participants will have advanced reading and ?‘homework?’ to ensure a basic understanding of Bohmian dialogue. This advance preparation is a must for participation in the process. For more information or to register, contact: Patrick Marsolek at (406) 443-3439, or PO Box 1264 Helena, MT 59624. Credit cards accepted by phone or online at:
www.irfs.com/bohmdialogue.htm.

Added by Amy Lang on March 07, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Open Space Practice Retreat Coming Up on Bowen Island, British Columbia

Chris Corrigan and Michael Herman will be offiring a three-day Open Space Practice Retreat at Rivendell, a beautiful retreat centre on Bowen Island, BC from April 18-20. The retreat will be an opportunity for deep and intensive learning about leadership and change. It is an opportunity for new and current practitioners, leaders, managers, consultants, facilitators, community activists and anyone else who wants to open more space for renewal, visioning, learning and productivity -- in business and community organizations. If you would like to know more, you can find more information at Chris Corrigan's Practice Retreat page: www.chriscorrigan.com/wiki/pmwiki.php?n=Main.OSTPracticeRetreats. Contact Caitlin Frost for registration details at 604 947 9236 or email . Questions for Chris can be sent to : .

Added by Amy Lang on March 07, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Metanexus Institute Invites Applications for Local Societies Initiative

An initiative of the Metanexus Institute (www.metanexus.net), the Local Societies Initiative provides three-year grants to fund start-up costs for dialogue groups exploring the dynamic interface between religion and science. While focused on colleges, universities, and seminaries, the program also welcomes applications from a wide spectrum of interested parties in other venues worldwide. This unique program differs from other scholarly grant programs in that it emphasizes building organizations and dynamic associations of people who explore the implications of the science and religion interchange. Members of local religion and science dialogue societies engage in a variety of activities, such as reading and study groups, public lectures, Web publishing, journal publication, newsletters, and more. LSI is a multi-disciplinary, multi-faith, and multi-cultural educational project intended to promote a balanced and exploratory dialogue between the discoveries of the natural and social sciences and the wisdom of the world's faith traditions. There are over two hundred LSI groups active in more than thirty-five countries in this ongoing program. Each grant is for $15,000 paid over three years. The applicant must be able to match the grant with $15,000 in additional funding over the three years. There will be a number of supplemental grants of $10,000 each awarded annually to those projects that are particularly innovative, creative, and effective. Funds may be used for society events, speakers, the purchase of books for group study, communications, publicity, outreach, public forums and travel directly related to the project. The applicant society that receives a Metanexus LSI grant must operate as, or be under the auspices of, a nonprofit organization. For more information, including application guidelines, best practices, and links to existing LSI groups, visit the Metanexus Institute Web site. Application deadlines are April 1 and July 1, 2006.

Added by Amy Lang on March 04, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Quest for Global Healing II Conference in Bali this May

This May, you can join Nobel Prize Laureate Desmond Tutu, Fatima Gailani, Walter Cronkite, and other world-renowned speakers at an extraordinary gathering of concerned global citizens, business leaders and other innovative thinkers in a quest towards a more collaborative, peaceful and sustainable future for humankind and the planet. This unique gathering is designed for those concerned about where the world is heading and who want to play a role in the world?’s renewal. The conference is inspired by a recognition by individuals that the wounds of the planet can be healed by individuals of vision and commitment. The civil society movement is the fastest growing development in human history, with over 250,000 organizations being created over the past few years by individuals wanting to play a role in the world's renewal. The conference will feature multigenerational, multicultural conversations, workshops and other activities that offer new insights, growth and clarity in moving ahead with personal initiatives that matter. Registration starts at $3190 (including air and hotel). For more information, visit www.questforglobalhealing.org/index.htm.

Added by Amy Lang on March 01, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Midwest Social Forum Calls for Session Proposals

The Midwest Social Forum (www.mwsocialforum.org) is an annual gathering of grassroots organizations, community activists, workers, educators, students, and others committed to making a better, more just world possible. It will be held this July 2-6 in Milwaukee, WI. The MWSF provides an open space for exchanging experiences and information, strengthening alliances and networks, and developing effective strategies for progressive social, economic, and political change. Formerly known as Radfest, the MWSF has been inspired by the World Social Forum and the similar principles on which it was established, most importantly its commitment to diversity, democracy, and politically non-sectarian dialogue and debate (See principles of the World Social Forum here). The MWSF is currently calling for session proposals and activities. Activities can include workshops, panels, training sessions, round tables, retreats, caucuses, films, and other cultural events. For information on how to get involved, visit www.mwsocialforum.org/get_involved/index.htm. Proposals are due by April 15, 2006.

Added by Amy Lang on February 25, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Update on SFU's Dialogue Activities

Simon Fraser University's Centre for Dialogue has announced a new training session and a video. First, the workshop Learning to Listen, Learning to Teach is an intensive, interactive four-day workshop that will transform your approach to teaching. The goal of the workshop is to learn a structured and accountable method of organizing, designing and facilitating and to create engaging and participatory learning events. Opportunities to design and teach short lessons and receive feedback and coaching will unlock the power of dialogue in educating adult learners. The workshop takes place from Monday, May 1 - Thursday, May 4, 2006, 9-5 pm. The fee is $1400 for the four-day program (text, course materials and refreshments provided), and the workshop will be held at SFU's Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue, 580 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC (entrance on Seymour St). For more information or to register, email , see www.sfu.ca/dialogue/Learning_to_Listen_flyer.pdf or call 604.268.7925

Second, SFU has also put together a video of their Dialogue Maker's Network activities. SFU's Dialogue Maker's Network began in 2003 as a space for those interested in the creative potential of dialogue to learn about shared values and pre-conceived understandings in a spirit of non-judgmental curiosity. Monthly gatherings give participants the opportunity to cultivate the core capacities of dialogue: listening to understand, suspending judgment, surfacing assumptions, and demonstrating empathy and respect. Watch the Quicktime video as some of the participants comment on the Dialogue Maker's Network here: www.sfu.ca/dialogue/previous.htm#network

Added by Amy Lang on February 21, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Participants Sought for Dialogue on Religion and the Academy

NCDD member Nancy Thomas sent us a call for participants for a dialogue project on religion in the academy. The origins of this project lie in a meeting convened last July by the Society for Values in Higher Education (SVHE) and the Johnson Foundation. They invited scholars from both public and private colleges and universities and who represented diverse disciplines, geographic regions, and faith perspectives to come together at the historic Wingspread Conference Center in Racine, Wisconsin. The purpose of this gathering, entitled Religion and Public Life: Engaging Higher Education, was to discuss growing concerns over the intersection between religion and public life and higher education's response to the concerns. It was a wild ride and a sometimes difficult dialogue, but eventually they concluded that the issues raised at Wingspread call for study, dialogue, critique, and action. The academy must examine how and what it teaches about religion; how welcoming it is to students?’ diverse religious views and spiritual interests; and how it will factor religion into its educational programs and initiatives to strengthen deliberative democracy, all the while preserving standards of intellectual inquiry, public reason, and academic freedom.

As a result of this work, the group crafted a draft Wingspread Declaration, which is available on the SVHE website (www.svhe.org). They are hoping that people will download the declaration, convene campus groups (particularly faculty) to talk about it, and submit comments on it. There is also a forum space on the website for public comments. Also available at SVHE's website is a framing paper, entitled A More Perfect Union and additional discussion questions for campus conversations. All three documents are available in PDF form. And campuses that would like to engage these issues broadly and need a jump start can contact Nancy at .

Added by Amy Lang on February 19, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Taos Institute Publishes New Book on Appreciative Inquiry

Taos Institute Publishers (www.taosinstitute.net) has just announced the publication of Appreciative Inquiry: A Positive Approach to Building Cooperative Capacity by Frank J. Barrett and Ronald E. Fry. The book provides a concise introduction to and overview of the growing discipline and practice of Appreciative Inquiry (AI). While the literature on AI is expanding rapidly with texts, handbooks, and case studies, the authors, Drs. Barrett and Fry feel there is a strong call for a "quick read" that will assist curious change agents or leaders in determining if they are interested in learning more about this rapidly expanding field of theory and practice. If you are intrigued by the prospect of mobilizing rapid, positive change with multiple stakeholders in a human system that is important to you, this book is for you.

Added by Amy Lang on February 12, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Vicki Robin to Host Workshop on Freedom in America

Vicki Robin, inventor of the Conversation Cafe and co-author of Your Money or Your Life, will be hosting a weekend retreat titled "If This is a Free Country, Why Don?’t I Feel Free?" The workshop will draw on all of Vicki?’s core teachings to address questions like, What is freedom for? What are limits for? When I?’m tied up in knots, how do I cut through? When I lose my sense of freedom, how do I get it back? Can I feel free sexually and still be legal, moral, and married? When I?’m swamped by possibilities, how do I direct my life? Why do so many Americans not feel free? For the first time publicly, Vicki will present the ideas in her new book on freedom, which is being published in 2007. The weekend will be held from May 12-14 at the Rowe Camp and Conference Center in Rowe, MA (www.rowecenter.org). Registration fees and accomodations are on a sliding scale. For information on the workshop, contact the Rowe Center at or call (413) 339-4954 from 9 to 6 Monday through Friday. And check out Vicki's blog at victoriaroserobin.blogspot.com

Added by Amy Lang on February 02, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Initiatives of Change Announces 60th Annual Summer Conferences Line Up

This summer, delegates from around the world will meet for the 60th annual summer conferences at the Initiatives of Change center in Caux, Switzerland. The conferences, under the theme of Globalizing Integrity, Personalizing Integrity, will run July 6 ?– August 17, 2006. For more information or to register for the conferences, please visit www.caux.ch/en/program.php. Feel free to contact Initiatives of Change (www.us.iofc.org) if you have any questions at 1156 Fifteenth St., NW, Suite 910; Washington, DC 20005-1704; p (202) 872-9077; f (202) 872-9137. For information on idividual conferences, click on the link below.

Read the rest of "Initiatives of Change Announces 60th Annual Summer Conferences Line Up"

Added by Amy Lang on January 23, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Foundations of Appreciative Inquiry Workshop Coming Up in Boulder, CO

Join Amanda Trosten-Bloom and Jim Ludema, leading authors and consultants, for their Foundations in Appreciative Inquiry Workshop, February 6-9 in Boulder, Colorado. Recognized as one of the strongest foundations-level trainings available, this workshop attracts an international contingent of positive change consultants and leaders. Learn how businesses and communities around the globe have transformed their organizations in partnership with CPC's premier consultants. Develop your skills to lead key steps in the Appreciative Inquiry process: select affirmative topics, craft and conduct appreciative interviews, envision positive futures, design provocative propositions and create sustainable appreciative organization cultures. Begin designing Appreciative Inquiry initiatives in your own and others' organizations. This 4-day workshop is the first and foundational workshop in the Corporation for Positive Change's Certificate Program in Appreciative Inquiry and the Practice of Positive Change. For more information or to register, visit the Corporation for Positive Change (CPC) website (www.positivechange.org) or e-mail or phone 505.751.1232 (x2).

Added by Amy Lang on January 20, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Presidio Dialogues Event Coming Up January 24

The Presidio Dialogues (www.thepresidiodialogues.org), a group that organizes "conversations for conscious business" in California is sponsoring an event this January 24 at 7pm in San Francisco. The discussion will focus on the theme "The Feminine and Leadership: Not Just Reserved For Women." The discussion starts from the premise that leadership is sorely needed in the world today, but that there's already too much of the traditional masculine, intimidating and forceful variety. Whether instilled in men or women, what is needed now is the more systemic, enduring, longer-term, holistic variety -- what we normally think of as the feminine aspect of leadership. This dialogue will explore how men as well as women can feel comfortable embracing the feminine in leadership, not simply in style, but in context as well. The conversation starters include Paula Goldman, from the International Museum of Women; Rhoda Nussbaum, MD, Founder of Women Physicians in Leadership for the Permanente Medical Group; and Marilyn Steele, Ph.D., a Jungian psychologist. Registration for this event begins at 7pm and the conversation starts at 7:15 pm. The meeting takes place at Saybrook Graduate School and Research Center, 747 Front St. (@ Broadway) 3rd Floor, San Francisco. Admission is $20 in advance by registering online; $25 in advance (by email, phone or check); $30 at the door. To register online, visit www.thepresidiodialogues.org/register.html. For more information, email or call 415/249-1380.

Added by Amy Lang on January 10, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Heartful Communication Four Week Series Coming Up in California

Starting Monday January 23, Sharda Miller of The Listening Path (www.thelisteningpath.com) will be offering a four week course in Heartful Communication. The course treats a series of listening skills and processes with an emphasis on Marshall Rosenberg?’s Nonviolent Communication (NVC). The series offers specific skills that lead to heartful, honest and authentic communication without blame or judgment. The class will be small and intimate in order to allow plenty of time for sharing and practice. Course dates are on 1:30-4 pm Jan 23, 30, Feb 6 & 13, 2006 in the East Bay area of San Francisco. The series cost is $120. For more information or to register, call Sharda at 510-435-2327 or email .

Added by Amy Lang on January 09, 2006??-??Link to this entry

Public Conversations Project Profiled in O, the Oprah Magazine

Public Conversations Project (www.publicconversations.org) was recently featured in the November 2005 issue of O, The Oprah Magazine in the article Us & Them (p.264). PCP Executive Director Laura Chasin speaks candidly with writer Aimee Lee Ball about the fiery national abortion debate which gave birth to new dialogue. "What PCP has developed, Chasin says, is most useful in bridging deeply polarized issues." Read on at: www.oprah.com/omagazine/200511/omag_200511_understanding.jhtml

Added by Amy Lang on January 02, 2006??-??Link to this entry

New Civic Engagement Opportunity: Join the Potluck Action Network

The Potluck Action Network (www.potluckactionnetwork.org), is building a network of thousands of potluck groups across Canada and the US, meeting in each other's homes on a regular basis for the long term, to plan and experience active civic engagement. Each person in each potluck group of twelve commits to doing one progressive action of their own choosing per month, while discussing it and getting feedback from the other members of the group at the potlucks. Designed for members of every age, from ten through college through retirement, these groups have no leader but instead are guided by a "Chef" in the group, whose action focus is to ensure group continuity, inform the network of the group's progress, and keep everyone meeting regularly, happy, engaged, and well fed. Each potluck group purposely works on a self-chosen set of topics, ensuring that each member stays interested and able to influence the directions and successes of the potluck group. Members of the Potluck Action Network believe that through learning about and acting on the issues we choose, we create experienced specialists on a variety of topics, guard against burnout, have fun, make lifelong friends, and create a network of people learning to create constructive changes, all while enjoying dessert.

Anyone can start a new group by visiting the website above and clicking on "start new group." When you start a new Potluck group, you'll become what is referred to as a "Chef". You're the person who makes sure the meetings happen, makes sure the group is working on multiple issues, and makes sure each meeting has a healthy dose of Food, Fun, and Action! Many groups use a pair of Co-Chefs, and the person who's Chef can change over time. The ideal group size in the Potluck Action Network is 12. If you don't have 12 members in mind right now (that's usually the case), you probably have two. If they can each bring two, and those folks can bring two, you're all set. Several groups have begun with meetings of 4 or 6 for several months till the word gets out, then they suddenly get to 12 members. Or your first meeting may have more than 12, and that's ok too. The point is to have that first meeting and work to make it a good one. As a Chef, you will be supported and mentored by the Chefs of two other groups in the Potluck Action Network.

Added by Amy Lang on December 27, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Knight Foundation Expands International Press Fellowships Program

The International Center for Journalists (www.icfj.org) has received a $4.4 million grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation (www.knightfdn.org) to expand and improve the Knight International Press Fellowships program over the next two years. The Knight International Press Fellowships program sends U.S. journalists to work with media overseas to promote press freedom and open societies throughout the world. Each year, the program sponsors up to twenty-two fellows from the U.S. to work with overseas partner institutions seeking outside assistance. Knight Fellows consult and train in newsrooms, at universities, and with media associations. The fellowships range from two to nine months, and fellows concentrate on working with the developing independent press worldwide, principally in countries experiencing political and economic transition. Applications are required for both U.S. journalists seeking to be awarded fellowships and international media organizations interested in partnering with a Knight Fellow. Fellows should be U.S. citizens or non-U.S. citizens with significant experience with U.S. media. Their expertise can be print, broadcast (radio or television), photography, online, management, and/or business development. Most fellows have at least a decade of professional media experience before applying for a fellowship. Previous training experience, international travel, and knowledge of a language other than English are helpful. Partner-organizations may be media enterprises or associations, academic institutions with journalism programs, newspapers, broadcasters, news agencies, photo agencies, foundations, or trade unions. They should be based in developing countries that strive for greater democratic principles, including a more open, politically independent, and financially solvent media sector. Visit the ICFJ Web site for complete program information and application materials. Deadlines are February 15 and August 15, 2006.

Added by Amy Lang on December 18, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Glenna Gerard Launches New Website

Glenna Gerard, co-author of the landmark 1998 book ?“DIALOGUE: Rediscover the Transforming Power of Conversation,?” has just launched a new website at www.glennagerard.net. Inviting all to check out her new site, Glenna writes, "This site is my personal offering, born of my listening for ?“what is mine to do and be at this time?”. I hope you will enter, breathe deeply, and allow yourself to rest into your own unique listening of what this site evokes and nurtures in you."

Added by Amy Lang on December 15, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Shambhala Institute for Authentic Leadership Announces Additional Program for Summer 2006

The Shambhala Institute for Authentic Leadership has just announced an additional module for its Summer 2006 program. The latest addition is "Solving Tough Problems," led by Adam Kahane and Grady McGonagill. This module is an experiential introduction to the Change Lab developed by Generon Consulting and based on the U-process. The Change Lab is currently being applied to complex global issues, as an experiment in applying cutting-edge methodology to seemingly intractable challenges involving diverse stakeholders. This module was also offered last year, and the case study (creating welcoming communities for immigrants) provided an immersion in the Change Lab process for participants while having ongoing impact on how local stakeholders understand the issue. This module is not yet listed on the website. If you wish to register for it email or call 902-425-0492. To see other modules for summer 2006, visit www.shambhalainstitute.org/modules.html

Added by Amy Lang on December 12, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Intro to Dialogue Education Training Coming Up in Vancouver, BC

Simon Fraser University's Centre for Dialogue will be offering the training workshop Learning to Listen, Learning to Teach: An introduction to dialogue education from Monday, May 1-Thursday, May 4, 2006, 9-5pm. Based upon the field research and teaching of Dr. Jane Vella, this four-day workshop provides the building blocks of the dialogue education approach to curriculum design and facilitation skills. By switching the focus from 'what the instructor says about a topic' to 'what the participants will do with the content to demonstrate their learning,' adult learners are invited to take new ideas, apply them and reflect on their significance for their own lives and context. After engaging in a participatory discussion of the principles and practices of dialogue education, you will co-design and co-teach two 40-minute practice teaching sessions on a topic of your choice. You will then receive feedback from the facilitators and the other participants, and be able to watch a videotape of your session. Instructor Peter Noteboom has worked with dialogue education practitioners internationally: community development organizations in the Philippines, micro-finance and elementary schools in Haiti, and public health and economic development NGOs in Bangladesh (see www.globalearning.com/LtL.htm) The cost of the workshop is $1400, and discounts are available. refreshments will be provided. For more information, see www.sfu.ca/dialogue/Learning_to_Listen_flyer.pdf.

Added by Amy Lang on December 11, 2005??-??Link to this entry

American Library Association Invites Applications for Jazz Discussion Series

The American Library Association (www.ala.org) Public Programs Office and National Video Resources (www.nvr.org), in collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center (www.jalc.org), are accepting grant applications from libraries and other organizations that are interested in hosting "Looking At: Jazz, America's Art Form," a six-part, scholar-led film viewing and discussion series that explores the history of jazz music. Fifty applicants will be selected to participate in the "Looking At: Jazz, America's Art Form" project. In addition to public, academic, and special libraries, any nonprofit institution (including museums, concert halls, and jazz societies) may apply for the grant. Either a library or a nonprofit organization can be the lead applicant, provided they create a partnership that includes both a library and a nonprofit organization or venue. Successful applicants will receive a collection of six documentary films on DVD to use for the series and keep as part of their permanent collections; compelling essays on the film topics written by eminent scholars; an extensive resource guide for additional reading, videos and DVDs,
and Web sites; and program and publicity materials. Grant guidelines require that, after the viewing and discussion series, the documentary film packages become a part of the participating library's circulating collection. In addition, selected organizations will receive training for the program coordinator and scholar at a workshop hosted by National Video Resources and Jazz at Lincoln Center. These organizations also will receive a $1,000 grant to use toward certain expenses, including workshop travel/lodging, program and marketing costs, and scholar honoraria. Libraries and organizations interested in presenting the series can download an application from and guidelines from the ALA Web site. The deadline for applications is February 10, 2006.

Added by Amy Lang on December 09, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Dialogue Between Spiritual Practitioners and Dialogue Practitioners Coming Up in Vancouver

The Organizers of the Dialogue Maker's Series at Simon Fraser Univeristy are inviting spiritual practitioners (both members of groups and those who explore the spiritual on their own) and dialogue practitioners with an interest in the deep interpersonal experiences that dialogue can bring about, to gather and examine what it means and what it takes to create shared sacred space. This gathering will explore the meaning of 'sacred space' from the viewpoints of diverse spiritual traditions and rituals. Further, they will examine the notion of 'shared' and how sharing what we hold as sacred across traditions and experiences enables us to appreciate what is both unique and common about this understanding. Shared Sacred Space: A dialogue will take place on Thursday, February 9, 2006, from 6:30-9:30pm at SFU's Morris J Wosk Centre for Dialogue, Asia Pacific Hall, 580 West Hastings St, Vancouver, BC. Cost is $55, and refreshments will be provided. For more information, see www.sfu.ca/dialogue/sacredspace_flyer.pdf. This event is sponsored by The InterSpiritual Centre of Vancouver, Simon Fraser University's Institute for the Humanities, and the J.S. Woodsworth Endowment.

Added by Amy Lang on December 07, 2005??-??Link to this entry

New Research on the Importance of Framing

In a New York Times article called The Framing Wars (July 17, 2005), author Matt Bai calls UC Berkeley linguistics professor, George Lakeoff, the father of framing. Framing refers to the language used to define a debate and, most importantly, to fitting issues into the context of beliefs that Lakoff claims are deeply embedded in our unconscious minds. Forty years ago, his theory of conceptual structures was the basis of a feud between himself and his mentor, renowned linguist Noam Chomsky. Then a graduate student, Lakoff challenged Chomsky's conviction that universal rules of syntax form the basis of language. The men still don't speak to one another. Most American linguistics departments today teach the Chomsky view. Nevertheless, Lakoff went on to establish cognitive linguistics as a field of study. Although he is not without critics, Lakoff is becoming one of the most sought after consultants today. To learn more about his work visit the following links:

Framing the Issues:
www.berkeley.edu/news/media/releases/2003/10/27_lakoff.shtml

Linguistics professor George Lakoff Dissects the "War on Terror" and other Conservative Catch Phrases:
www.berkeley.edu/news/media/releases/2004/08/25_lakoff.shtml

"The Framing Wars"
www.nytimes.com/2005/07/17/magazine/17DEMOCRATS.html?ex=1279252800&en=36ac46ed797d7ab6&ei=5090&partner=rssuserland&emc=rss

Added by Amy Lang on December 06, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Dialogue Mapping Book Now Available

Recently published by John Wiley and Sons is Dialogue Mapping: Building Shared Understanding of Wicked Problems. Written by Jeff Conklin of the CogNexus Institute (www.cognexus.org), the book lays out a theoretical foundation and then describes the mechanics of Dialogue Mapping in detail. It is filled with stories, examples, illustrations and screen shots, and is a practical guide for consultants, managers, project leaders, and facilitators. To order a copy or for more information see http://cognexus.org/dm_book.htm. There will be a book signing event in the Washington DC area at Touchstone Consulting from 4 PM to 7 PM on Monday, December 12, with a brief talk at 5 PM. See the CogNexus website for details, including RSVP instructions. Copies of the book will be available at 25% discount (cash and checks only, please).

Added by Amy Lang on December 04, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Corporation for Positive Change Announces 2006 Training Schedule

The Corporation for Positive Change (www.positivechange.org) is a premier consulting firm using Appreciative Inquiry for transformation and innovation in business, government, and nonprofit organizations around the world, with proven results in change management, leadership development, team building and culture transformation For detailed brochures on each workshop, please e-mail , or phone 505.751.1232 (x2). To see a list of the upcoming workshop dates and locations, click on the link below.

Read the rest of "Corporation for Positive Change Announces 2006 Training Schedule"

Added by Amy Lang on December 02, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Heartful Communication Workshops Offered for the Holiday Season

As the holiday season approaches, many may feel concerned about what kind of communication will accompany family gatherings. Sharda Miller from The Listening Path (www.thelisteningpath.com) is offering a series of workshops designed to improve family communication. Each experiential evening will be spent addressing the challenges that can cloud family visits. Using skills from active listening and non-violent communication, participants will listen to each others?’ concerns and explore ways to bring more skillful means to the ?“table?”. Times and dates are as follows:

Oakland Monday afternoon, December 5, 1-3 p.m. OR
Oakland Tuesday evening, December 6, 7-9 p.m. OR
San Mateo Wednesday evening, December 7, 7-9 p.m. OR
Marin Monday evening, December 12, 7-9 p.m.

Suggested donation is $10-35/evening. For more information or to sign up, email or call 510-435-2327.

Added by Amy Lang on November 17, 2005??-??Link to this entry

World Citizens To Debate Urban Sustainability Online, Dec. 1-3, 2005

Habitat JAM, an unprecedented online global dialogue on urban sustainability, will be held for 72 hours from 1-3 December, 2005. Sponsored by the Government of Canada, in partnership with UN-HABITAT and IBM, the Habitat JAM promises to engage, empower and stimulate tens of thousands of global citizens, rich and less fortunate alike, with the ultimate goal of turning ideas into action on critical issues related to urban sustainability. The Habitat JAM is a preparatory event to the third session of the World Urban Forum being held in Vancouver in June 2006. The World Urban Forum is an initiative of the United Nations Settlements Program (UN-HABITAT) held every two years to debate ideas and issues about sustainable development in today's context of rapid urbanization. Topics for discussion will include improving the lives of people living in slums, access to water, environmental sustainability, safety and security, finance and governance, and the future of our cities. The Habitat JAM will bring together academics and students, planners and builders, politicians, governments, the private sector and ordinary citizens from across the globe in real time, all contributing ideas and expertise during the 72-hour global problem-solving session. Moderators will include government leaders, renowned experts, and key thinkers. To ensure the most inclusive event possible, grass root organizations, institutions, women, youth groups and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are helping to bring people to the technology who might otherwise not have access or opportunity to share their experiences and ideas with others around the world. To name just a few examples, the Habitat JAM is teaming with the:

* World Bank Institute to offer access to many of their satellite-based Global Development Learning Network (GDLN) to enable people living in regions with inadequate or no Internet access to participate in the Habitat JAM.
* Huairou Commission and GROOTS Canada to bring the voice of non-English speaking women into the Habitat JAM.
* World Urban Forum and Youth Organizing Committee (WUFY) who will hold over a dozen World Urban Cafe JAM Sessions to engage communities in slums and impoverished human settlements in Asia, Africa, India and Latin America.

For additional information on Habitat JAM and to register for the event, visit www.habitatjam.com.

Added by Amy Lang on November 16, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Two Upcoming Workshops at the Simon Fraser University Dialogue Program

The Simon Fraser University Dialogue Program has two exciting workshops coming up. First, a workshop entitled Learning from the Citizens' Assembly: A conversation with Jack Blaney will be held Monday, November 21, 2005, from 8-9:30am at the Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue, Asia Pacific Hall. For Registration or information call 604.291.5100. In 2003, an independent, non-partisan assembly of 160 randomly selected citizens from across British Columbia gathered together to understand and redesign the province's electoral system. Led by Jack Blaney, Simon Fraser University president emeritus, this Citizen's Assembly produced a novel system called BC-STV, which was narrowly defeated in a provincial referendum. Despite this setback, critics and admirers alike acknowledge that the work of the Assembly has set the province on the path to electoral reform and demonstrated the power of public engagement in creating and evaluating new policies. Jack Blaney will reflect in conversation on the workings of the assembly and the applicability of this model to future public initiatives.

Second, join instructor Peter Noteboom, the managing director of Global Learning Partners, for Learning to Listen, Learning to Teach: An introduction to dialogue education. The workshop takes place from Monday, November 28 to Thursday, December 1, 2005, 9-5 pm. Cost is $1400, and discounts are available. For registration or information email [email protected], call 604.268.7925 or visit www.sfu.ca/dialogue/dialoguemakers_web.pdf. Based upon the field research and teaching of Dr. Jane Vella, this four-day workshop provides the building blocks of the dialogue education approach to curriculum design and facilitation skills. By switching the focus from 'what the instructor says about a topic' to 'what the participants will do with the content to demonstrate their learning,' adult learners are invited to take new ideas, apply them and reflect on their significance for their own lives and context.

Added by Amy Lang on November 14, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Join Communication For Change Retreat in Nagpur, India

This January 5-12, 2006 in Nagpur, Maharashtra, India, thousands will gather together for the retreat Communication for Change - An Experiment in Social Change . Endorsed by the Buddhist Peace Fellowship and the Bay Area Center for Nonviolent Communication, the principal teachers on the retreat will be Marshall Rosenberg and Dhammachari Subhuti. All are welcome to participate, donate to enable others' participation, or spread the word about this event. For information, contact John Abbe at , or 510-323-2646 or visit ourpla.net/cgi/pikie?CommunicationForChange.

Added by Amy Lang on November 13, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Open Space Workshop Coming Up in San Francisco

Facilitator Lisa Heft will be convening a workshop on Open Space Technology from December 7-9, 2005 in San Francisco. Open Space Technology is a method for convening a meeting, retreat or conference that generates communication, collaboration, innovation, and other solutions to challenges and transitions. Participants co-create an agenda and lead their own discussion and action sessions in a dynamic way that invites interdisciplinary and inter-group thinking. The use of Open Space Technology has been effective since the mid-1980?’s in a diversity of settings and cultures and in over 100 countries. The method has been used by communities working towards peace, chemists designing new polymers, tribal and governmental leaders planning land use, community advocates and local government designing literacy programs, conference organizers holding action conferences, architects designing pavilions for the Olympics, an entire town having a simultaneous discussion town meeting, and neighbors helping each other rebuild and heal after times of war. For more information and a registration form contact Lisa Heft at .

Added by Amy Lang on November 08, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Compassionate Listening Project Organizing Delegation to Berlin

From May 2-9, 2006 the Compassionate Listening Project (CLP) will host ?“Days of Remembrance?” with Brian and Lisa Berman in Berlin, Germany. CLP invites you to participate in this groundbreaking and heart-opening Compassionate Listening delegation to hear each other?’s stories and experience our shared humanity. Many people avoid going to Germany as they carry the generational and collective wounds of WWII and the Holocaust. It offers a way for healing and for building peace and reconciliation. Participants from all nations and backgrounds who have a genuine interest in reconciliation and personal healing are welcome to join the Delegation. The Compassionate Journey will be an intensive training in Compassionate Listening. The Delegation will listen to our stories as well as to Jewish and German survivors. It will tour memorial sites, including the new Holocaust memorial and we will meet and listen to Jewish community members. The Delegation Leaders are Brian Berman - an American Jew, and Lisa Berman ?– formerly of Berlin, a married couple, both certified Compassionate Listening facilitators. Since 2002, they have been leading Compassionate Listening workshops and Jewish-German Reconciliation work in Germany and the USA. Cost of te May 2-9, 2006 delegation to Berlin, Germany is approximately*$1,525, or $1,445 if registered by January 15, 2006. The price includes unique rooms in an Art Hotel based on double occupancy, with private bath and most meals; trip leaders; guides; honoraria for speakers and hosts; and Compassionate Listening training. Early registration is recommended, as space is limited to 20. Airfare is additional and purchased individually. *(Based on an exchange rate 1 Euro = $1.20 U.S.; The final trip price will be based on the exchange rate as of April 1, 2006). To register visit clgermany06.mollyguard.com

Added by Amy Lang on November 08, 2005??-??Link to this entry

"Clean Talk" Workshop Coming Up Nov. 17-18 in Denver, CO

Clean Talk is a communications model specifically designed for expressing challenging or difficult messages in ways that avoid the triggering of defensive responses. It enables facilitators to speak powerfully in groups while minimizing the possibility of creating a destructive wake of reaction. Clean Talk also opens up trust and allows for more responsibility to be shared in any conversation. For additional information, please see the attached document. Cliff Barry will be facilitating an Institute on the Common Good workshop entitled ?“Clean Talk.?” The founder of Shadow Work Seminars, Cliff has over 15 years of facilitation experience, and has led workshops across the US and Canada. The workshop takes place November 17-18, 2005 from 8:30 AM- 4:30 PM at Regis University's Lowell Campus, Adult Learning Center- Mountain View Room (11/17) and Main Hall 333 (11/18) in Denver, CO. The workshop registration fee is $125.00. For more information or to make a reservation contact Katie Bruen at or 303-458-4967.

Added by Amy Lang on November 06, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Ten Days To C2D2!

With ten days to go until the Canadian Conference on Dialogue and Deliberation in Ottawa, organizers have sent out answers to their top three most frequently asked questions. First, people are asking,"Can I still register for a pre-Conference training session?". The answer is yes ?– and up to October 26, as long as space permits. The website has been adjusted to reflect the two sessions that will be on offer, at extremely low prices - one on Best Practices in Public Consultation and the other on Intermodal Engagement: How to Marry Online and Traditional Consultation and Dialogue. A second FAQ is "How much longer will registration for the Conference remain open?" The Conference registration is already high?…and people can register right up to opening on the evening of October 27. A full description of the Conference program ?– including over 60 interactive breakout sessions, 6 community conversations, 4 plenaries and 2 deliberative dialogues ?– and online registration and payment, are available at www.c2d2.ca. One final question being asked is "Will there be an opportunity to meet and network with other participants and presenters?" The answer is that the Conference has been designed with this purpose in mind. In fact, World Café, the opening session on the evening of October 27, will set the stage for ongoing opportunities to connect ?– that is what C2D2 is all about! In addition, there are no speakers or learning sessions during mealtimes and breaks to ensure that participants are free to follow up on ideas with other participants and presenters. Plans are already underway for post-Conference communication, as well. To find out more about pre-conference training, the program for the conference or answers to your other FAQs, visit the Conference website at www.c2d2.ca.

Added by Amy Lang on October 18, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Urban Bush Women Seeks Emerging Coreographer

Urban Bush Women (www.urbanbushwomen.org) is a dance troupe that seeks to extend dialogue to its audiences. They are currently holding a competition to sponsor an emerging female coreographer to develop new coreography with them. The deadline for submission is October 10, 2005. They are looking particularly for emerging and developing voices with at least a three-year history of professional work. The finished dance, not to exceed 20 minutes in length, is scheduled to be premiered during the 2006-2007 season. Interested applicants may submit two 5-minute excerpts and one piece of any length in its entirety on a single dvd or vhs tape. Media must be clearly marked with your name, title of piece, date of creation and performance information (e.g., filmed at DTW, May 21, 2005). Submission must include an aesthetic vision statement no more than 2 pages in length that addresses the following: How do you describe your work? How do you describe your process? What ideas/concepts/movements would you like to explore and develop in this new work? Please also submit a c.v. and head shot (optional). Commission award is $2,500. Urban Bush Women assumes all rehearsal and production costs for creation of work and formal presentation of the dance. Selected choreographer must be available for introductory rehearsals, February 13-17, 2006, and 3-week creation period in spring/summer 2006.

Added by Amy Lang on October 06, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Tenement Museum Seeks Full-time Education Associate

The Lower East Side Tenement Museum (located in New York, NY) is seeking a full-time Education Associate for Contemporary Immigrant Perspectives, who will report to the Education Director. S/he will be responsible for helping to promote dialogue on contemporary immigration-related issues; incorporating the diverse perspectives of contemporary immigrants into the Museum's programming; and constantly striving to make the Museum more accessible to and relevant for new immigrants. S/he also assists the Education Director in raising awareness among Museum staff about various viewpoints on issues related to contemporary immigration. Salary in low 30s with good benefits. Please email resume, cover letter, 2-3 page writing sample, and three references no later than October 14 to Maggie Russell-Ciardi at . Please put "Education Associate Position" in the subject line. No phone calls please. Candidates are strongly encouraged to visit www.tenement.org for additional information about the Tenement Museum prior to submitting their application. For more information on the job's responsibilities, and a list of expected candidate qualifications, click on the link below.

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Added by Amy Lang on October 06, 2005??-??Link to this entry

SFU Dialogue Program Offers Two Upcoming Workshops

The Dialogue Program at Simon Fraser University (SFU) in Vancouver, Canada has two workshops coming up this fall. First, their Dialogue Practitioner Workshop will be held on Thursdays, October 6, November 3 and December 1, 2005, 5:30 - 8:00 pm. Cost is $150, and discounts are available. Second, a workshop on Appreciative Inquiry: Creating positive change in organizations and other human systems will be held from October 31-November 1, 2005, 9-5pm. Cost is $525, and discounts available. For more information on these workshops and other programs at the Dialogue Program, download their brochure at www.sfu.ca/dialogue/dialoguemakers_web.pdf.

Added by Amy Lang on October 03, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Discounts Still Available for CPC Appreciative Inquiry Courses

The Corporation for Positive Change has just sent out a reminder that discounts still apply for their remaining 2005 Appreciative Inquiry (AI) workshops. The Corporation for Positive Change (CPC) also provides substantial discounts to students and non-profit organizations. Upcoming courses include Appreciative Inquiry in Action - October 12-14 in Boulder CO; Appreciative Inquiry Summit - November 7-10 in Chicago IL; and an Appreciative Leadership Development Program - December 5-8 in Clearwater, FL. For full information on each course, phone 505.751.1232 (x2), visit www.positivechange.org or email .

Added by Amy Lang on September 27, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Public Conversations Project Seeks Executive Director

The Public Conversations Project (PCP), a well-respected and highly effective national nonprofit, is seeking an energetic, collaborative Executive Director to succeed the organization's founder. Specializing in highly polarizing conflicts about deeply held beliefs, PCP helps people who are fundamentally divided over contentious issues develop the mutual understanding and trust essential for strong communities and positive action. The Executive Director serves as PCP's chief executive officer, and is responsible to a small Board of Directors. S/he has overall responsibility for the organization's strategic, programmatic, financial, and management operations. Working within the framework of a soon to be completed business plan, the Executive Director will build upon PCP's successes by both visualizing and capitalizing on opportunities that lie ahead. The core challenges facing the next Executive Director include 1) increasing PCP's programmatic impact without sacrificing quality, 2) expanding and diversifying the funding base, and 3) collaboratively leading a talented team through a period of significant change. For a more detailed position description visit www.NonprofitProfessionals.com/searches/pcp-ed.htm . To learn more about the Public Conversations Project, visit www.PublicConversations.org.

Applications are due by November 11, 2005, and will be reviewed as received. Please send a cover letter describing your interest and qualifications, yourresume (in Word format), and salary history. Applications should be sent to: ; to assist in their internal sorting and reviewing process, please write your name (Last, First) as the only contents in the subject line of your e-mail. PCP is an equal opportunity employer that seeks staff diversity that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve.

Added by Amy Lang on September 25, 2005??-??Link to this entry

News on Jewish-Palestinian Dialogue Projects

We just heard from Len and Libby Traubman about their recent involvement in two exciting dialogue initiatives. In Summer, 2005, at the most northern tip of South Korea -- near the inter-Korean border -- ten Israeli students from Hebrew and Tel Aviv Universities and ten Palestinian students from Bethlehem and Birzeit Universities met. They were joined by ten Korean university students. Read about this meeting in the Korea Times Correspondent (in English): times.hankooki.com/lpage/culture/200509/kt2005090420155811690. And in California 140 Arabs and Jews met to discover their commonalities at the very successful Camp Tawonga. Read all about it at traubman.igc.org/camp2005 (click on the links at the top of the page to see media coverage).

Added by Amy Lang on September 24, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Open Space Training Coming Up in Nanaimo, BC

Chris Corrigan has just announced an Open Space Technology training and practice workshop for November 15-17 2005 near Nanaimo, on Vancouver Island, Canada. This workshop features a new design which makes the practices learned applicable to both Open Space and a variety of other dialogic facilitation methods. More details about this workshop can be found at www.chriscorrigan.com/wiki/pmwiki.php?n=Main.NanaimoInvitation. All are welcome.

Added by Amy Lang on September 22, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Harwood Institute Launches New Website

The Harwood Institute has just launched a newly redesigned website at www.theharwoodinstitute.org. Highlights from the new site include the history and values that helped to shape the Harwood Institute, stories from individuals who have worked with the Institute in creating change in their own communities, opportunities to bring The Harwood Institute to your community, and upcoming events. And be sure to check out Rich Harwood's book tour blog at www.theharwoodinstitute.org/rcharwood/weblog/index

Added by Amy Lang on September 22, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Workshop on Latino Identity Coming Up in Oakland, CA

On Saturday, October 8, 2005 from 9:00-4:30 multicultural consultant Roberto Almanzan will host the all-day workshop "A Reflective Journey into Latino Identity." This is a workshop for Latinos/as to explore their multiple identities and engage in healing work across differences. The goal is to cement a united Latino/a community that deeply values and integrates cultural diversity and authentic collaboration by engaging in personal and community healing for this and future generations. The workshop can accommodate up to 20 people with a view of balancing gender, class, race/ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, and immigrant/US born status. Please confirm your attendance by September 30th. The donation is sliding scale $75-100. It includes a delicious lunch, snacks, the services of three skilled facilitators and workshop materials. A payment plan is negotiable. Contact Roberto Almanzan for registration information at 510.531.6462 or .

Added by Amy Lang on September 20, 2005??-??Link to this entry

C2D2 Conference Registration Deadline Extended to Sept. 23

The first ever Canadian Conference on Dialogue and Deliberation (Oct. 27-30) has just extended its deadline for early registration until Sept. 23. Cost is $475 plus GST. The program for C2D2 is now up and running on the website (www.c2d2.ca) and includes three days of varied presentations, interactive sessions and activities, as well as a pre-Conference training day (October 27), with a wide range of half-day and full-day training opportunities. All C2D2 trainers are generously offering sessions at very low rates ?— $150.00 (plus GST) for half-day and $250.00 (plus GST) for full-day sessions. Registration for training must be completed separately. To register for C2D2 or the pre-conference training, visit the website today! If you have any questions, contact Sandra Zagon at or (613) 565-1500 or Miriam Wyman
or (416) 413-0347.

Added by Amy Lang on September 18, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Pioneers of Change Embraces Global Strategy

We just received the latest newsletter from Pioneers of Change (www.pioneersofchange.net). Beginning in October a new global team will step forward to support the Pioneers of Change Network. The shift away from a small full time paid staff to a larger global group, comes due to a variety of factors. It is their hope that a more dispersed global team, comprised of people who are each focusing their energies on a specific area of the Network, will bring fresh and focused energy to those areas. There will be more Pioneers, more places in the world focused on supporting the network and creating opportunities for involvement. The other reason is economics, the new team will operate on a volunteer basis. This means that their new structure creates even more space for those who want to get more involved, and they encourage everyone to get in touch if they are interested in volunteering. Check out the Pioneers of Change website regularly to see upcoming events related to dialogue and deliberaiton around the world (for example in England, Denmark, Sweden, South Africa, Germany and Brazil).

Added by Amy Lang on September 18, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Corner Talk to Host Discussion on Hurricane Katrina

A new University of Georgia student organization called Corner Talk will host a public forum to discuss the effectiveness of Hurricane Katrina relief efforts. Corner Talk was organized by Melvin Hines Jr., a senior economics and political science major, and Vineet Reddy, a senior Spanish and pre-med major, to create dialogue between the university community and the Athens community on important national and local issues. The meeting will be held on September 20, 2005 at 7:30 p.m. at Hot Corner Coffee, at the corner of Hull and Washington Streets, Athens, Georgia. For more information contact Melvin Hines, Jr., at 706-357-1103, or email

Added by Amy Lang on September 18, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Heartland Institute Organizing Two Upcoming TeleConversations

Heartland Institute invites everyone to participate in two upcoming TeleConversations. The first, on September 20 is with Richard Leider, President of The Inventure Group. Ranked by Forbes as one of the "Top 5" most respected coaches, Richard is a best-selling author with thirty years experience in coaching people to live. Richard is a founding partner of The Inventure Group, a training and coaching firm. A pioneer in the field of career coaching, Richard has become an internationally respected author, speaker and a noted spokesman for "life skills" needed in the 21st century. On October 5 join in conversation with Elisabet Sahtouris, PhD Evolution Biologist, Futurist, Speaker and Consultant. Elisabet shows the relevance of biological systems to organizational design in businesses, government and global trade. Participation is free for Heartland Institute members and costs $15 each for non-membersl. Sign up to participate by visiting www.heartlandcircle.com/store/class_detail.cfm?CLASS_ID=26 , calling 888-925 -5995, or emailing .

Added by Amy Lang on September 14, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Appreciative Inquiry Workshop Coming Up in Boulder, CO

Amanda Trosten-Bloom and Mike Mantel, authors of "The Power of Appreciative Inquiry" and "The Nonprofits' Guide to the Power of Appreciative Inquiry" are inviting everyong to their "Appreciative Inquiry in Action" Workshop, this October 12-14 in Boulder, CO. The workshop is designed to build on individuals' experiences as leaders of positive change, and to deepen your understanding of Appreciative Inquiry. For more information or to register, visit the Corporation for Positive Change (CPC) website: www.positivechange.org or contact Maggie Considine at or phone 505.751.1232 (x2). Early bird discounts are available until September 21.

Added by Amy Lang on September 13, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Tom Atlee Reviews Brown and Isaacs' The World Cafe

Many of you may have seen our previous blog announcement about Juanita Brown's new book The World Cafe: Shaping Our Lives Through Conversations That Matter, co-written with David Isaacs. We have just heard from Juanita that the first edition of the book has received a tremendous response and that they are very very busy talking about the World Cafe to many different groups. To give you more insight into the book, we're posting a recent review of The World Cafe by NCDD member and friend Tom Atlee. To read Tom's review, click on the link below.

Read the rest of "Tom Atlee Reviews Brown and Isaacs' The World Cafe"

Added by Amy Lang on September 13, 2005??-??Link to this entry

NCDD to Participate in the SCRC National Conference

This Oct. 7-8, the Study Circles Resource Center conference will take place in Northbrook, IL (a suburb of Chicago). NCDD wil be there hosting a pre-conference workshop with the Deliberative Democracy Consortium about navigating and choosing among different models of dialogue and deliberation. You can sign up for pre-conference training and plan your conference workshops by visiting the conference website www.studycircles.org/scrcconference. Early registration is open until Sept. 14, and discount hotel rooms will be available until Sept. 16, so register now! This year's conference will feature open space lunches, where any participant can organize a discussion table around a challenge or issue that hasn't been covered in the workshops. The conference will also feature a performance by the unforgettable National Playback Theatre. Visit the conference website for details.

Added by Amy Lang on September 11, 2005??-??Link to this entry

News From the Compassionate Listening Project

Leah Green sent us an email update about what's been happening at the Compassionate Listening Project this summer. They have found a new home with the Suquamish UCC Church and they've participated in several significant national and international conferences this summer, including the 11th International Noetic Sciences Conference. Leah also writes "One of my most memorable events this summer occurred at our Annual Gathering when I had the honor of introducing and listening to Fred Whitaker and Beth Angeline, co-founders of The Compassion Project at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School in Louisville, Kentucky. This program - the first middle school curriculum modeled on Compassionate Listening - has inspired us to find ways to bring this program to other teachers and schools." If you are interested in participating in a Compassion Project weekend workshop for teachers and schools in Seattle this fall, contact Leah at . Looking towards the fall, the CLP Advanced Training Series from November ?‘05 through May ?’06 has only two spaces left - if you are interested in joining this series, visit their website at www.compassionatelistening.org for details. And CLP is planning a Compassionate Listening trip to Israel and Palestine from Nov. 6-20 - email Leah, or check out the CLP website for more details on this trip. Both newcomers and the experienced are welcome to participate.

Added by Amy Lang on September 07, 2005??-??Link to this entry

"How To Talk About Race" Article Available at Tolerance.Org

Sandy H. recently found a great article on dialogue about race that?’s featured at Tolerance.org. Its home is tolerance.org/news/article_tol.jsp?id=1295. The article includes some quotes from NCDD Board member Martha McCoy (E.D. of the Study Circles Resource Center) as well as links to SCRC?’s race and racism dialogue guide and a new Call to Action written by Martha. The article has already stirred up quite a lot of debate on the NCDD Discussion list - to see the discussion so far, visit www.edgateway.net/cs/ncdd/forum/cs_disc/915. The article has also been added to NCDD's D&D and Katrina clearinghouse on the Thataway Forum at www.thataway.org/discussions/forum/.

Added by Amy Lang on September 02, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Art of Convening Info Session Coming Up Sept. 7

Heartland Inc. (www.heartlandcircle.com) will be offering a free info session on their Art of Convening teletraining workshops lined up for this fall on Sept. 7, 2005. Craig Neal will review the context, design & curriculum of the TeleTraining. He will cover who should participate, commitments, as well as off-line assignments. There will also be an interactive demonstration of practices used during the sessions followed by Q&A to learn more about the curriculum. The call will take place from 8-9 am Central Time on September 7, 2005. For more information or to register for the information TeleTraining session, email or call 952-925-5995.

Added by Amy Lang on September 01, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Three Training Opportunities Coming Up at the SFU Center for Dialogue

The Center for Dialogue at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver, BC has just announced three new training opportunities for this fall. From Oct. 31 to Nov. 1, Dr. Gervase Bushe, one of the pioneers in the application of appreciative inquiry and associate professor of Management and Organization Studies in the Faculty of Business Administration at SFU will host "Appreciative Inquiry: Creating positive change in organizations and other human systems". The course number is DLOG 240, fees are $525 and discounts are available. On Friday Nov. 4, the Center offers "Spiral Dynamics integral-Transcending Turf-Wars: Exploring a framework for the frameworks" taught by Dr. Don E. Beck, founder of the Center for Human Emergence. The course number is DLOG 250, cost is $325, and discounts are available. Rounding out this trio of workshops is "Dynamic Facilitation: An approach for facilitating solutions to the unsolvable" from Monday, November 14 to Wednesday, November 16, 2005. Jim Rough, originator of Dynamic Facilitation will teach the course along with Jean Rough and DeAnna Martin. The course number is DLOG 260, cost is $1375 and discounts are available. For more information and to register, contact , 604.268.7925 or see www.sfu.ca/dialogue/dialoguemakers_web.pdf.

Added by Amy Lang on September 01, 2005??-??Link to this entry

News on Dynamic Facilitation

We just received the latest Dynamic Facilitation Newsletter and thought we would post the contents for all our blog readers. This month's letter contains news about Dynamic Facilitation & the Wisdom Council on Tour in Australia, a Calendar of Upcoming Events, an Invitation to Contribute and Wisdom Council Updates as well. To subscribe to the newsletter, email with "Subscribe" in the subject line. To read the news, click on the link below.

Read the rest of "News on Dynamic Facilitation"

Added by Amy Lang on September 01, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Fetzer Institute Is Seeking Senior Program Officer for Science Initiatives

The Fetzer Institute, a private foundation with a mission to foster awareness of the power of love and forgiveness in the emerging global community, is seeking a Senior Program Officer for Science. Duties would involve providing leadership in developing, managing, and evaluating the Institute?’s program strategy in the science area. The ideal candidate will possess substantial experience in scientific endeavors, management, and communication; a commitment to the values expressed in the Institute?’s mission with an openness to shared leadership; and an orientation to listening, learning, and collaboration. The Fetzer Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer and they encourage applications from individuals representing diverse backgrounds. See the full position announcement (www.fetzer.org/PDF/Position_Announcement_SPO_8-05.pdf) for additional information and application instructions. Materials should be received by September 30, 2005, although the position will remain open until it is filled. For more information, contact the Fetzer Institute Human Relations Department, ph. 269-375-2000 or email .

Added by Amy Lang on September 01, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Public Agenda To Lead National Community College Engagement Effort

Public Agenda, the New York-based opinion research and citizen engagement organization, has received a grant to support its work in a national effort to boost achievement of community college students. The $480,000 grant, funded by Lumina Foundation for Education, will support Public Agenda's participation in ?“Achieving the Dream: Community Colleges Count,?” a multi-year initiative to increase the success of community college students, particularly those who face the greatest obstacles to success. The project will bring together community members, government, local schools and employers, and students themselves to talk seriously and honestly about what kinds of changes will really work to improve student outcomes. For more information on Public Agenda's work, visit www.publicagenda.org.

Added by Amy Lang on August 20, 2005??-??Link to this entry

New PBS Series Invites Study Circle Participants

The PBS series NOW is looking for participants in a pilot project that will encourage active discussion and engaged citizenship. The Twin Cities will be one of two sites (the other is San Diego) to host the pilot "Program Clubs," which will be run on the study circle model. The study circles will be organized in September and October. If you're interested in participating as a member or a facilitator of a group, please contact the Twin Cities Program Club coordinator, David McCarthy at . To read more about the program, click on the link below.

Read the rest of "New PBS Series Invites Study Circle Participants"

Added by Amy Lang on August 18, 2005??-??Link to this entry

SCRC Invites Exhibits at National Conference

Study Circles Resource Center is now inviting exhibits for its National Conference from Oct. 7-8 in Northbrook, IL. This is an opportunity to showcase your program's work in our exhibit hall by displaying photos, discussion guides, promotional fliers, and more. To learn more about the conference visit www.studycircles.org/scrcconference/. Contact Jill Kornrumpf at 860-928-2616, ext.11, or email to reserve your space.

Added by Amy Lang on August 05, 2005??-??Link to this entry

SCRC Introduces New Guide on Civil Liberties and Homeland Security

As Congress debates rewriting provisions of the PATRIOT Act this fall, many people want to know what they can do locally to strike a balance between civil liberties and homeland security. The Study Circles Resource Center has put together a discussion tool called Local Voices: Citizen Conversations on Civil Liberties and Secure Communities, developed as part of a project of the League of Women Voters Education Fund. This discussion guide gives everyday people a chance to talk about ways they can keep their community safe while protecting people's individual rights. Download the guide free of charge at www.studycircles.org/pages/issues/civilliberties.

Added by Amy Lang on August 05, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Learn about the World Cafe on July 27

On July 27, Heartland Institute will be hosting a VisionHolder TeleConversation with Juanita Brown, co-originator of The World Café. Juanita will tell the story of the World Cafe as a metaphor and as a dialogue practice, and speak about her new book. The call takes place from 7 to 8 pm Central Daylight Time, and participation in the teleconference is free. To register email or visit heartlandcircle.com/store/item_detail.cfm?ITEM_ID=45.

Added by Amy Lang on July 26, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Public Conversations Project Announces 2005-2006 Training Line-Up

Public Conversations Project has just announced its 2005-2006 workshop line up, which includes trainings in Boston, Dallas, Albuquerque, and San Diego. Workshops cover themes like The Power of Dialogue; Inquiry as Intervention; Staying Grounded When on the Spot; and The Art of Interviewing. To learn more about PCP's complete workshop series, visit www.publicconversations.org/pcp/index.asp?catid=51 or contact Manda at , or 617-923-1216 x13.

Added by Amy Lang on July 20, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Methanphetamine Consensus Panel Report Available Online

Last year, the Western Canadian Summit on Methamphetamine met at the Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue in Vancouver BC. The summit brought together international experts, health practitioners, academics, policy makers, law enforcement officials and drug users from November 15-17, 2004. Using a consensus process, the group produced a report that more clearly maps out the dimensions of drug use and promising areas of prevention, treatment, research and health promotion. This report was the guiding document for the June Western Premiers' on Methamphetamine conference held in Regina. To view the April 2005 Consensus Panel Report: Bringing Together Practitioners, Policy Makers and Researchers visit www.sfu.ca/dialogue/proceedings.

Added by Amy Lang on July 12, 2005??-??Link to this entry

The Dialogue Forum Publications Now Available

Guided by Research Associate and Fellow Glenn Sigurdson, Simon Fraser University's Dialogue Forum (www.sfu.ca/dialogue/forum) project has gathered participants who have been exploring the use of dialogue-based approaches in dealing with challenging conversations in a continuing dialogue about dialogue. Their exploration has recently culminated in a set of publications-The Dialogue Series: Knowing Dialogue Through Dialogue. For more information about purchasing these publications, please phone 604.268.7925, email [email protected] or go to www.sfu.ca/dialogue/publications

Added by Amy Lang on July 11, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Omidyar.net To Use Dialogue Methods at Upcoming Conference

Omidyar.net/home, an online community that encourages people to discover their own power to make good things happen through philanthropy, has announced that it will be using Open Space and Appreciative Inquiry methods at its upcoming conference. From July 29-31, 2005 Omidyar.net members, friends and other curious do-gooders will come together, make connections, have fun, do good work in Oak Park, IL. For more information on the conference schedule, visit www.omidyar.net/group/conference/ws/schedule/. Got any questions? Want to register? contact .

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Added by Amy Lang on July 05, 2005??-??Link to this entry

PCP Launches A Wise Questions Contest

This summer Public Conversations Project (PCP) is conducting a "Wise Questions" contest in order to promote their mission of reflective, community-building conversation. They're inviting anyone to submit their "wise questions" that encourage thought and conversation. Examples include, "What gives you hope?" and "Where will your words lead?" Winning questions will be imprinted on a series of merchandise such as t-shirts and mugs. PCP hopes the new products will help to inspire conversation, raise awareness about dialogue, and generate revenue to support PCP's work in communities in conflict. Questions are limited to 15 words. Send contest submissions to Ann Hertelendy () by July 31st. And visit PCP's website at www.publicconversations.org for more information.

Added by Amy Lang on June 23, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Three New 'Power of Dialogue' Workshops Announced

The Public Conversations Project (PCP) has just announced three new opportunities to participate in its signature workshop, The Power of Dialogue. The workshop is a hands-on way to explore how to create meaningful dialogue that has the power to shift communication and relationships. Participants learn through the process of designing, facilitating, and de-briefing an extended dialogue simulation. The three new workshop dates are: Newton, Massachusetts, October 20-22, 2005; Dallas, Texas, November 4-6, 2005; Albuquerque, New Mexico, February 9-11, 2006. To register, contact Manda Adams at or 888-PCP-TEAM x13 (888-727-8326). And for a complete roster of workshops visit www.publicconversations.org/pcp/index.asp?page_id=123&catid=51

Added by Amy Lang on June 22, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Public Conversations Project Seeking Help

The Executive Director of the Public Conversations Project (PCP) in Watertown, MA is seeking a full time right-hand person to support her leadership of the PCP. This individual will help the director plan, monitor, coordinate and execute her projects; manage written communications; schedule appointments; assist with their annual appeal process and communicate with staff and Board. If you have any questions, or would like to send a cover letter and resume contact Susan Wheeler (), or mail to Public Conversations Project, 46 Kondazian Street, Watertown, MA 02472. For more information on the qualifications they are looking for, click the link below.

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Added by Amy Lang on June 21, 2005??-??Link to this entry

News From the Sustained Dialogue Campus Network

The Sustained Dialogue Campus Network (www.sustaineddialogue.org) is a network of 16 colleges and universities across the nation focusing on communication that addresses deep-seated social issues such as racism, religion, sexual orientation, and class. In addition to on-campus activities, the SDCN recently organized its 2nd National Conference that took place April 9-10, attracting about 130 students and administrators from 18 colleges and high schools around the country. By all accounts, the conference was a great success, generating much networking and problem-solving. The SDCN also produces a monthly newsletter about its activities - to subscribe to the newsleter email . For a preview of the May/June newsletter, click on the link below.

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Added by Amy Lang on June 13, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Dynamic Facilitation Workshop to be Held In Richmond, VA

We just heard from DeAnna Martin about a new opportunity to learn Dynamic Facilitation (www.tobe.net) in Richmond, VA this September 20-22, 2005. This workshop welcomes seasoned facilitators and those who would like to learn more about Dynamic Facilitation, and is offered in partnership with the Richmond Friends meeting. For more information or to register, contact DeAnna at (206) 459-8429 or .

Added by Amy Lang on June 09, 2005??-??Link to this entry

New Opportunities to Learn the Foundations of Appreciative Inquiry

Back by popular demand, the Corporation for Positive Change (CPC) is offering its course, The Foundations of Appreciative Inquiry, in Boulder, CO from June 13-17, 2005 and in Chicago, IL, from September 12-16, 2005. Whether you?’re a consultant or leader of change, the course will guide you through an exploration of the theories, principles and practices of Appreciative Inquiry. The workshop provides hands-on experience of Appreciative Inquiry, preparing you to guide clients and groups in creating interview protocols, conducting interviews, working with appreciative data and stories, and crafting provocative propositions and organization design principles. The workshop will also explore the difference between Appreciative Inquiry and deficit-based approaches to change, and the power of positive change methodologies. For information and to register contact Corporation for Positive Change at 505-751-1232 or email: .

Added by Amy Lang on June 08, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Corporation for Positive Change Reports Success in Longmont, CO

The Corporation for Positive Change (CPC) has just announced its success using Appreciative Inquiry to engage in participatory planning in Longmont, CO. The initial stages of the project included over 80 one-on-one interviews, community conversations, and a one day community summit. These events brought in many residents who had not participated previously in city-sponsored activities. In the next few months, the CPC will begin the third stage of the Longmont project: incorporating the discoveries from the Discovery and Dreaming phases into Designing plans for Longmont's future. CPC provides consultation and training based on the principles and practices of Appreciative Inquiry. For more information about CPC, or to contact any of their principal consultants, visit their Web site at www.positivechange.org.

Added by Amy Lang on June 07, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Compassionate Listening Training Series Announced for 2005-2006

The Compassionate Listening Project (www.compassionatelistening.org) has just announced its Advanced Training Series for 2005-2006. The Advanced Training Series consists of three 3-day weekends over a 7-month period, beginning in November 2005 and ending in May 2006. Compassionate Listening focuses not just on communication skills, but on strengthening the influence of the heart through cultivating compassion, and learning to listen and speak from the heart, even in the heat of conflict. The CLP welcomes the participation of all who have taken their introductory intensive or participated in a delegation by November 2005. Registration is due by October 10, 2005. If you have any questions, please contact Carol Hwoschinsky, Training Director (). Click below for details on the dates and cost of the Training Series.

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Added by Amy Lang on June 05, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Corporation for Positive Change Announces Three New Training Opportunities

The Corporation for Positive Change (CPC) has a great workshop lineup coming up. From August 2-5, the CPC will hold a Spiritual Retreat for Change Agents in Taos, NM. From October 12-14 the CPC presents a workshop Appreciative Inquiry in Action in Boulder, CO. And, from December 5-8, in Naples, FL, the CPC offers its Appreciative Leadership Development Program. For information and to register contact Corporation for Positive Change at 505-751-1232 or email: . Click below for details on each workshop.

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Added by Amy Lang on June 05, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Heartland Institute Becomes Heartland Circle

The Heartland Institute has recently become Heartland Circle, and has published a new website: www.heartlandcircle.com. Visit the new website for information about workshops on The Art of Convening, Thought Leader Gatherings, and about the benefits of becoming a member of the Circle.

Added by Amy Lang on June 04, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Northern CA Appreciative Inquiry Practitioners to Meet June 11

Dina Medina asked me to post an announcement to the blog today about a June 11 meeting she is planning for Appreciative Inquiry practitioners in Northern California. The meeting will take place at San Jose State University from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. In addition to opportunities to share experiences and network, there will be an educational presentation and a reception hosted by the SJSU Communication Studies Department. Whether you're a change management professional, organizational development consultant, personal coach or a budding practitioner, this will be a great opportunity to meet others in the field and share practical experiences with AI. Click below for more details.

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Added by Sandy on June 02, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Severn School Receives Creative Thinking in Management Award for their Dialogue Work

Judy O'Brien of RIVERSPEAK Dialogues emailed me today to let me know that one of her clients recently won an award from Independent School Management, Inc. for their dialogue work. Severn School received the "ISM Creative Thinking in Management award," which is awarded to schools for their innovative management ideas.

In an article about the Severn School's dialogue work, Laura Kang (Head of the Middle School) says "Once I was introduced to the process, I realized that Dialogue, more than any other tool I had encountered, had the power to help me gather multiple perspectives and ideas for better decision-making." Click here for the full article, in which Kang describes the various ways that dialogue has been used at the school.

Added by Sandy on April 16, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Open Town Meeting on Economic Issues to be Held in NYC on Monday

An "open town meeting" will be held this Monday, April 4, at 7:30 p.m. near Baruch College in New YOrk City. The meeting will follow a lecture by Professor Lawrence Kotlikoff, author of "Coming Generational Storm", who will speak on economic issues to be addressed in the near future. The lecture is not open to the public, but the town meeting is. The context of the meeting will be the overall decline of America's competitiveness, the rise of our national debt, and the failure of our political discourse to address this. Organizers of the town meeting hope to make this meeting a launchpad for various deliberative processes. Click below for the full announcement.

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Added by Sandy on April 02, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Taos Institute Conference Coming Up in October

The TAOS Institute has announced an upcoming conference on the theme of "Social Construction: A Celebration of Collaborative Practices in Organizations, Communities, Therapy, Education, Social Work and Daily Life." An opportunity to learn about and share collaborative practices, the conference will be of particular interest to practitioners from any profession concerned with personal or social change. Register online at: ww.taosinstitute.net/upcoming/conferences, or for more information email or phone 1-888-999-TAOS or 1-440-338-6733.

Added by Amy Lang on March 27, 2005??-??Link to this entry

PCP Announces Spring Line-Up of Workshops

Click below for the menu of workshops the Public Conversations Project will offer in the next few months. The trainings range from one to two days in length and will take place in San Diego as well as greater Boston. PCP's much-touted training program enhances participants' capacity to plan, facilitate, and engage in more constructive conversations in their professional, civic, and personal lives.

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Added by Sandy on March 17, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Taos Institute Publishes 2 New Books

The Taos Institute just announced two new publications: Appreciative Sharing of Knowledge: Leveraging Knowledge Management for Strategic Change (2005)
by Tojo Thatchenkery, and Experiential Learning Exercises In Social Construction: A Field Book for Creating Change (2004) by various authors at the Institute for Creative Change. Click below for more details on these books.

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Added by Sandy on March 15, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Indigenous Issues Forums to Hold Facilitation Workshop in South Dakota

Ruth Yellowhawk asked me to share this Indigenous Issues Forums announcement. From May 5th through 7th in Rapid City, South Dakota, IIF is offering a hands-on, participatory skills development workshop for circle facilitation which includes children?’s activities, elder?’s speak, and reflection. Click below for more details and instructions for registering.

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Added by Sandy on March 12, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Update from Let's Talk America

I wanted to post today's Let's Talk America update since I haven't posted anything about LTA in a while. LTA is still going strong, and I encourage those of you who haven't yet gotten involved to participate in the March 16th or April 9th phone trainings for hosts.

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Added by Sandy on March 11, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Dialogue Event on Reinventing Culture through Business

The Presidio Dialogues in San Francisco will hold a dialogue on March 22 at 7:00 p.m. on "Reinventing Culture Through Business: Developing 2020 Foresight." Participants in this dialogue will explore the role that business can play in creating and reinventing culture. Click below for more details.

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Added by Sandy on March 01, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Taos Institute Publishes Two New Books on Appreciative Inquiry

Taos Institute (www.taosinstitute.net), a longtime supporter of Appreciative Inquiry techniques, has announced the publication of two new books that will be of interest to Happenings readers. Experiential Learning Exercises In Social Construction: A Field Book for Creating Change (2004) presents exercises that have been organized into Learning Labs that will invite innovative thinking and practice with those familiar with social construction theory as well as those who are newcomers to constructionist thinking. In Appreciative Sharing of Knowledge: Leveraging Knowledge Management for Strategic Change (2005) Tojo Thatchenkery describes a brand new methodology for change management called Appreciate Sharing of Knowledge [ASK] and provides a step-by-step tool kit for anyone interested in knowledge management. For more information on the books, or to place an order, visit www.taosinstitute.net/publishing/publishing

Added by Amy Lang on February 27, 2005??-??Link to this entry

League of Women Voters Launches a Public Dialogue About Civil Liberties

The League of Women Voters Education Fund (LWVEF) recently launched "Local Voices: Citizen Conversations on Civil Liberties and Secure Communities," an eight-month initiative that will foster public dialogue about the balance between civil liberties and homeland security. The League will develop materials, train local facilitators, and encourage citizen participation in large League-led conversations about this topic. Click below for the full press release for this exciting project.

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Added by Sandy on February 20, 2005??-??Link to this entry

Cool Facilitation Opportunity for New Yorkers

I received an email yesterday from Karly Li at the Lower East Side Tenement Museum in New York City. The museum recently created a dialogue program called "Kitchen Conversations" for their public tour visitors. They are very excited about this program as it is the first ongoing public dialogue program ever conducted at the museum, and one of only two such programs in the country. They are currently looking to hire facilitators for the program, and wanted to reach out to the NCDD community. Click below for the full announcement.

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Added by Sandy on December 18, 2004??-??Link to this entry

News from the Public Conversations Project...

The Public Conversations Project's December E-News focuses on "Talking About Politics across Divides." The e-newsletter announces some great resources designed to help those who with to engage in respectful, meaningful conversations with people who have vast political differences. PCP's Executive Director, Laura Chasin, recently wrote an article for the Christian Science Monitor's "Talking with the Enemy" series, and PCP has created some resources around that series. Click below to learn more about all of this, and to check the dates for PCP's highly acclaimed trainings this spring.

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Added by Sandy on December 09, 2004??-??Link to this entry

Authentic Leadership at the Shambhala Institute next June

The fifth annual Authentic Leadership Summer Program will take place in Halifax, Nova Scotia (Canada) from June 22 through July 1 2005, and will include two-day workshops and a six-day Core Program. I plan to attend this year, and I hope to see some of you there!

Known for its integrative approach (leadership capacity-building is supported by meditation, creative process, simulations, and dialogue), the Summer Program attracts about 250 leaders and change agents from around the world. Intensive modules are led by such renowned mentors as Margaret Wheatley, Julio Olalla, Brian Bacon, Carol Pearson, and Harrison Owen. Of particular interest to the D&D community is a module on "Circle, Brush & Sword: Hosting Conversations as a Martial Art," led by masters in three fields: Toke Moeller from Denmark (The Art of Hosting), Barbara Bash (Eastern brush calligraphy), and Bob Wing (Aikido). To learn more, go to www.shambhalainstitute.org

Added by Sandy on December 03, 2004??-??Link to this entry

Upcoming Training in the Art of Hosting & Convening Conversations

The Berkana Institute's From the Four Directions project is offering a training in the Art of Hosting & Convening Conversations on Whidbey Island in Washington state this March. The Art of Hosting & Convening Conversations is a training for all who aspire to learn and find new ways for working with others to create innovative and comprehensive solutions. From the Four Directions is a growing community of practitioners, supporting each other to explore and accomplish what we most care about. Click below for more details.

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Added by Sandy on December 02, 2004??-??Link to this entry

Why I Wish I Lived in Vancouver (Or, an Update from the Wosk Center)

If any of you in the Northwest or in Western Canada haven't yet heard of the Wosk Center for Dialogue in Vancouver, you're in for a treat. The Wosk Center makes me wish I lived on the other side of the country.

I just received an update from Nicole Mah of the Wosk Center, outlining some of their upcoming activities and programs. A Dialogue Network meets each month to dialogue about dialogue, which is cool enough - but also their 2004 Dialogue Maker's Series is launching on Sept. 10 with a dialogue inspired by the Dalai Lama's visit to Vancouver. Click below for the full announcement.

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Added by Sandy on August 26, 2004??-??Link to this entry

Leah Lamb's "Engage" Program Featured in Richmond Times

NCDD member Leah Lamb's innovative theatre/dialogue program was featured on Monday in the Richmond Times-Dispatch. An article by Michael Paul Williams called "Theater as an Agent of Change" outlined Leah's hopes to inspire civic engagement and community building among youth through her "Engage" program - a blend of theatrical performances and documentary footage conveying the civic and political experiences of Richmond residents. Engage will open September 16 through 18 at Virginia Commonwealth University. Click below for the full article.

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Added by Sandy on August 25, 2004??-??Link to this entry

Update on Let's Talk America

Click below to read over today's Let's Talk America e-newsletter. The newsletter provides a great "Hip-pocket question of the week" (What's the number one thing you consider when picking who you vote for?). It also urges you to sign the "We the People Declaration", a breakthrough declaration calling for greater dialogue across political differences.

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Added by Sandy on August 20, 2004??-??Link to this entry

Global Kids, Inc. and NewsHour Extra Capture Teen Opinion in New Report

What do teenagers think about the U.S. presence in Iraq? About a constitutional amendment to prevent gay marriage? About America's expanding waistline? A new report, "What Were They Thinking? Today's Youth On Yesterday's News," published by Global Kids and NewsHour Extra, shows how teens across the nation tackled these questions and responded to other important current events. Their answers came from online dialogues conducted on Newz Crew, a website run by and for teens to discuss the news that affects their lives. More than 300 teenagers participated in the dialogues, launched March 1, 2004, which were monitored by students at Canarsie High School in Brooklyn. The full report can be downloaded from www.NewzCrew.org/wwtt. Or click below for more info.

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Added by Sandy on August 11, 2004??-??Link to this entry

Museum of Science in Boston Seeks Advice from D&D Scholars & Practitioners

I received an exciting email today from Zannah Marsh, a Researcher Assistant at the Boston's Museum of Science. Zannah and her colleagues are in the early stages of developing a project they're calling FORUM. Their goal with this program is to engage museum visitors in dialogue and deliberation about new developments in science and technology--and particularly the social implications of these developments. They aim to provide a neutral setting for visitors to fully engage and explore contested topics with others, exchange viewpoints, and deliberate on solutions or recommendations (hopefully with scientists, technologists, and other experts). They also plan to integrate these dialogues into formats that provide visitors with new information, interactive experiences, and access to artifacts from their collections.

HOW YOU CAN HELP: Zanna would like to connect with people who have done academic research in the area of D&D on science and technology, and people who might be able to advise them as they design and learn how to facilitate these types of programs. Zanna can be contacted at 617-589-0202 or . I'd appreciate being cc:ed in any emails () so I can keep up with any developments.

Added by Sandy on July 15, 2004??-??Link to this entry

July 15 Update from Let's Talk America

Let's Talk America - a collaborative project of NCDD, Utne Institute, and Conversation Cafe - is bringing people across the U.S. together to talk about what democracy means to them. Read today's LTA update below to learn about training opportunities for hosts, upcoming LTA events, and about dialogues held on Independence Day.

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Added by Sandy on July 15, 2004??-??Link to this entry

Update on Jewish/Islam/Christian Dialogue from the Israeli-Based Interfaith Encounter Association

I don't usually post these announcements to the blog, but I thought this one would provide a good example of the kinds of updates you can receive from the Interfaith Encounter Association. If your work is related to Jewish/Palestian dialogue, you may want to subscribe to this announcement list by emailing .

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Added by Sandy on July 14, 2004??-??Link to this entry

Public Conversations Project Announces Two Job Openings

The highly-respected Public Conversations Project seeks to fill two job openings, one for an Information and Office Coordinator, and one for an Outreach and Fundraising Coordinator. PCP's offices are in Waterbury, Massachusetts (outside Boston). FYI: I received this announcement on June 29, 2004. Click below to read about these positions.

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Added by Sandy on June 30, 2004??-??Link to this entry

As a Field, Collective Intelligence Takes Off: A Tom Atlee Commentary

Here's a summary of a long, fascinating email I found in my inbox this morning from Tom Atlee, President of the Co-Intelligence Institute (to be added to Tom's e-mailing list, email :

Collective intelligence, as a field of study and practice, is taking off. Some really interesting work is being done, quite beyond the dialogue and deliberative democracy realms we focus on at the Co-Intelligence Institute. It turns out that even when thousands of people don't talk to each other at all, they can still be (somewhat mysteriously) collectively brilliant in solving problems. All told, there seem to be at least eight different -- and often mutually reinforcing -- types of collective intelligence, which are briefly described here. Some of the most interesting explorations of this field come from five sources we've recently bumped into?…

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Added by Sandy on June 07, 2004??-??Link to this entry

Iraqis Discuss Iraq at openDemocracy.net

As a new Iraqi government forms amid continued violence, openDemocracy.net hosts a heartfelt discussion among six Iraqis about what is best for their country. Their views are diverse, but they are unified by an avoidance of simplistic platitudes (no calls for immediate US withdrawal, for example), and a serious concern for the future of their country. As over-heated arguments about Iraq swirl around us, shouldn't we all find out what Iraqis think? You can join in on this roundtable weighing the prospects for democracy, the role of Kurds, Shi'a and Sunni, the USA's part in the process and what lies ahead.

Added by Sandy on June 04, 2004??-??Link to this entry

Update on Conversation Cafe Efforts in the U.K.

I received a great email the other day from Trish Dickinson, who has launched Conversation Cafes in the U.K. Trish wanted to update me on the cafes, so I'm passing that update on to you folks. According to Trish, "The last two years show a worldwide growing critique of systems of governance and the informal structure of the Conversation Cafe Movement creates a meeting place to listen to that dissension, to dialogue and develop practical options in line with shared values." Click below to read her full message.

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Added by Sandy on May 16, 2004??-??Link to this entry

Compassionate Listening Project Fosters Jewish-German Reconciliation

The Compassionate Listening Project will offer a unique training in the Washington DC area October 10-18, 2004. The project, which fosters reconciliation among Jews and Germans, was held in Germany in 2002 and 2003, and this will be the first time it is offered in the U.S. Jewish and German participants ?– from all nations ?– are welcome to participate. Participants will learn the skills of Compassionate Listening and begin to explore and heal the Jewish-German wound. For more details, contact co-directors Brian Berman at (360/297-3358) or Andrea Cohen at (206/523-6018). Click below to read the full announcement.

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Added by Sandy on May 15, 2004??-??Link to this entry

Peter Levine's Blog Entry on the September Project

I've posted about the September Project already, but Peter Levine's blog May 10 blog entry about the project is more detailed that mine... so here it is.
Peter starts by saying "The September Project is a great idea for promoting public deliberation. Libraries across the country will hold public discussions on the third anniversary of the 9-11 attacks. The library systems that have already signed up are shown on this map." Click below to read his full blog entry, or go to www.peterlevine.ws/mt/ to check out Peter's blog.

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Added by Sandy on May 13, 2004??-??Link to this entry

Workshop on Appreciative Inquiry in Healthcare to be Offered June 8-10

The Corporation for Positive Change is offering a training called "Appreciative Inquiry in Healthcare at the Gregg Conference Center at the American College in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, June 8-10, 2004. Click below for the full announcement.

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Added by Sandy on May 08, 2004??-??Link to this entry

Heartland Institute Offers Telephone Trainings on the Art of Convening

The Heartland Institute is offering a new "teletraining" program called The Art of Convening: Transforming Meetings & Conversations. This program includes a series of six two-hour evening sessions from May through October 2004 (one call/month). The trainings are facilitated by Craig Neal, co-founder of Heartland Institute, Inc., using the Principles of Essential Conversation developed over 25 years as convener of the Thought Leader Gatherings and as publisher of Utne Reader during the founding of its Neighborhood Salons. Tuition is $198 for all 6 sessions or $120 for 3. Call 952-925-5995 or register at www.thoughtleadergathering.com/. Click below to read more.

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Added by Sandy on May 02, 2004??-??Link to this entry

Compassionate Listening Project to Hold First Annual Gathering

The Compassionate Listening Project, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering individuals to heal polarization and build bridges between people, communities and nations in conflict, is organizing its first annual gathering of friends of the Project. The gathering will be held August 13-15, 2004 at Camp Brotherhood, a beautiful retreat center one hour north of Seattle, Washington. This will be a weekend of community, ritual and relaxation, and all are welcome - no prior experience with the Compassionate Listening Project is necessary. Click below for more details.

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Added by Sandy on April 26, 2004??-??Link to this entry

"Let's Talk America" Featured in Current Utne Magazine

NCDD has been working with the Utne Institute, Conversation Cafe and The World Cafe to organize a nation-wide dialogue called "Let's Talk America." LTA is featured in the March/April Utne that I just received in my mailbox this morning, and I encourage all of you to go out and get this month's Utne if you're not a subscriber.

A very cool 2-page ad (p. 48-49) with a red background encourages people to participate in this "new nationwide movement to revitalize our democracy." And on pages 60-61, a great article by Leif Utne provides background and info on how to get involved. Everyone in the dialogue & deliberation community is invited to participate in this election-year initiative. Go to www.letstalkamerica.org to find out more about the different levels of involvement.

Added by Sandy on February 21, 2004??-??Link to this entry