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of reflection by dialogue participants and others and how it assists in the process changing

perspectives and opinions; however, Saunders (2001) and Wheatley (2007) provide useful insights.

The act of reflection facilitates bridging the divide between civic and deliberative dialogue

participants as they “gradually give up their misconceptions in a psychological space they create

for themselves” (Saunders, 2001, p. 145). Reflection is a function of listening to one’s own inner-

voice or to others and an opportunity to consider new information while challenging personal

beliefs. Listening requires being present and contributes to bridging the divide between old and

new perceptions and ways of thinking. As the act of reflection about the stories heard during the

dialogue occurs, it aids in producing clarity and the courage to change (Wheatley, 2007).

A shift in perspective resulting from personal reflection can lead to a change in beliefs or

personal perspectives. As previously mentioned, one participant (P16MW) reflected on a shift after

a period of reflection indicating that he thought racism was a thing of the past. Although the

dialogues on implicit bias had helped to recognize that racism still occurs, he prefaced his comment

with not knowing both sides of the example he referenced. This indicates that there is still doubt,

however, he was willing to reconsider his previous belief system that led him to believe that racism

was also in the past. A second indication of a shift in perception was observed by a facilitator who

was paired with a White senior from the community center who had been in attendance at the first

Community Conversation. The facilitator indicated that she observed a shift after he participated

in the dialogue, which included the video segment from Race: The power of an illusion, dyad

conversation, and participation in the large group dialogue session. After helping the senior

complete a post survey to collect his thoughts and opinions at the end of the evening, she indicated:

“He actually changed one of the answers after being in the dialogue. It was the question

that I think talked specifically about inequalities specifically related to race. And I think as

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