Page 369 - Mike Ratner CC - WISR Complete Dissertation - v6

transparent conversation because everyone’s face was visible around the circle and the circular

formation helped with adding a feeling of community among people who knew only some or none

of the other dialogue attendees. This to me, reflects another dynamic in creating the Metasphere.

Conversely, when people use circles for gathering, there a sense of transparency that

pervades the space. When people sit in circles, there is no hiding place. The circular form allows

for the observance of verbal and non-verbal gestures and supports inclusivity, active listening and

the ability to experience reactions and expressions of participants in the group. The closeness of

proximity afforded to those seated in a circular arrangement affords intimate exposure to people

with differing views and perspectives within an environment that offers security even as tensions

and disagreements arise. The elements of the dialogue space, along with skilled process facilitators

fashioned an environment in safety prevailed. In each of the dialogues on race, safe spaces were

essential to the gathering and the willingness of members of the groups to trust the process and

remain engaged during periods of tension, uncertainty and emotional stress. As indicated by

several participants, the emphasis of the process on safety helped them to open up and achieve

greater levels of sharing and disclosure, as indicated in the following comments from respondents:

“Creating safety allowed everyone to express themselves in their way without fear.”

(P03FAA)

“Safety gave me an opportunity to say what I really feel and have it received and not looked

upon in a negative way or as criticism.” (P14FAA)

“The aspect of safety gave people the chance to take their time and really articulate what

they were trying to say without being worried about how it sounded coming out.” (P15FW)

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