The Reflection & Dialogue Series creates a safe space for faculty and staff to engage in dialogue surrounding pressing issues, themes, and current events that significantly impact both the Boston College community and the world.
Fall 2024 Series
In the midst of complex global conflicts and a polarizing U.S. election season, what makes fostering understanding and productive dialogue more crucial now than ever? Join the Office for Institutional Diversity for a 3-part Reflection and Dialogue Series, centered around Monica Guzman's insightful book, I Never Thought of It That Way: How to Have Fearlessly Curious Conversations in Dangerously Divided Times. Over three one-and a half-hour sessions this fall, we will explore practical tools and strategies to navigate difficult conversations, embrace diverse perspectives, and build a resilient campus community.
This series is designed to equip attendees with the insights, skills, and encouragement necessary not just to survive but to thrive in the midst of differences of opinions and beliefs. Attendees will learn valuable techniques for bridging divides and fostering a culture of curiosity and respect.
- Session 1: Wednesday, September 25, 2024 (12:00-1:30 pm)
- Session 2: Thursday, October 24, 2024 (12:00-1:30 pm)
- Session 3: Wednesday, November 6, 2024 (12:00-1:30 pm)
Book Part One
In the first session of our Fall 2024 Reflection and Dialogue Series, we will delve into Part 1 of Monica Guzman’s book, focusing on the themes of sorting, othering, and siloing. We will explore how our social circles influence our thinking, the impact of social media and cancel culture on our ability to engage with differing perspectives, and the consequences of living in information silos. Through guided discussions, participants will reflect on their own experiences and consider strategies to foster more open, curious, and productive dialogues within our campus community. Join us as we begin this journey to understand the forces that divide us and how we can bridge these divides for a more inclusive and resilient community.
Book Parts Two & Three
In the second session of our Reflection and Dialogue Series, we will discuss Parts 2 and 3 of Monica Guzman’s book,, focusing on the power of curiosity and the art of bridging conversations. We will explore how asking “What am I missing?” can open doors to new perspectives and how curiosity can transform difficult dialogues into opportunities for connection and understanding. Participants will reflect on their own experiences with INTOIT (“I never thought of it that way”) moments—those instances of unexpected insight—and learn practical strategies to enhance their conversational skills. Join us as we deepen our exploration of curiosity, embrace the complexity of differing viewpoints, and develop tools to build trust and foster meaningful dialogue in our campus community.
Book Parts Four and Five
In our third and final session of the Reflection and Dialogue Series, we will explore Parts 4 and 5 of Monica Guzman’s book. This session will delve into understanding motivations, uncovering values, and the importance of honesty in bridging divides. Participants will discuss how to navigate identity-related attachments and enhance clarity in conversations. Through practical strategies and reflective dialogue, we will aim to build a deeper understanding of each other's perspectives and learn how to maintain genuine, honest connections, even in the face of significant differences. Join us as we solidify our skills in fostering open, honest, and empathetic communication within our campus community.
Participation in every session is encouraged but not required. All registrants will receive a digital copy of the book provided by BC Library before the session(s).
Past Events
February 28, 2023 - Belonging and Burdensomeness on Latinx and Black Youth
Led by Dr. Carolina Vélez-Grau, Assistant Professor, School of Social Work, 26 participants took part in a learning, reflection and dialogue exercise to help deepen awareness of, and engagement with preventative measures ensuring the well-being and belongingness among all members of the Boston College community, particularly those from underserved and underrepresented backgrounds.
October 19, 2022 - Navigating Grief as a Social and Collective Experience
Led by Dr. Nora Gross, Core Fellow and Visiting Assistant Professor of Sociology, 40 participants engaged in discussions on the concept of collective grief, as well as getting to hear more about Dr. Gross’s own sociological research on Black teenage boy’s grief in the aftermath of neighborhood gun violence.
