Page 41 - Mike Ratner CC - WISR Complete Dissertation - v6

that fits the definition must have meaning in an active form of participatory public engagement

such that it openly promotes input and invites voice from multiple and divergent perspectives. As

such, the opportunities for interaction between all participants in dialogue groups may become

tense, strained, and perhaps contentious, resulting in passionate discourse about the topic at hand.

A growing number of community organizers, hoping to bring neighborhoods together, have

successfully used Community Conversations (CC) to work through differences and resolve local

issues within their neighborhood or larger region. These CCs consist of a group averaging 8 to 12

people who meet regularly over a period of weeks or months to address a critical public issue in a

democratic, collaborative way. Participants examine the issue from many points of view and

identify areas of common ground. They emerge with recommendations for action that will benefit

the community. Some examples from my observation of Community Conversations conducted

around the country include youth mentoring programs; crafting zoning policies; citywide diversity

celebrations; a multiracial "unity choir;" and a new state law reforming the corrections system in

Oklahoma and so much more as there always seems to be something to read about in the news.

A Community Conversation is typically led by an impartial host or facilitator whose job it

is to keep a flowing dialogue focused, help the group consider a variety of views, and ask difficult

questions. In general, a conversation naturally seems to progress from a session on personal

experience ("How does the issue affect me?") to sessions providing a broader perspective ("What

are others saying about this issue?") to a session on action ("What can we do about this issue right

now?"). These Community Conversations seem to produce potent good ideas and plans for action

which can draw the neighborhood community together and help improve everyone's quality of life.

Conflict and tension also can arise if participants harbor distrust or feelings of ill will,

whether the beliefs are substantiated or unsubstantiated. In public gatherings, the avoidance of

22