Diversity Circles in Action Conference
One of the most effective actions that have resulted from the Diversity Circles is the Diversity Circles in Action conference that is held annually in March. High school students who have participated in Diversity Circles organize and implement this conference for 400 of their peers to create a greater understanding of diversity. Conference sessions are conducted by community members as well as by students.
With the success of the Diversity Circles program, we realized that other forms of dialogue could also encourage and promote community involvement and change. We have expanded our program to include various forms of dialogue for use in a variety of settings.
Testimonials
"I like the fact we were a group of 8-10 people, and we were all from different backgrounds, but each of us had an equal voice. We all tried to understand each other's views because the idea was to share concerns and look for ways to make them better."
"Throughout all of the discussions, sometimes uncomfortable and controversial ones, everyone remained open minded and respectful. I never felt like I couldn't say anything, and never felt hurt by anything anyone else said."
"I highly recommend diversity circles to everyone in the society. People need to come together and learn about other cultures and understand them. I would tell them that it will only educate them and make them a better person in the long run. Since I have taken this class, I want to participate in diversity community projects."
"The change that separates me from the rest of the community is that now I am educated in diversity. Since entering the circle I now have an understanding for other ethnic groups. I live in a majority black neighborhood and everone blames everthing on white people, since I have been in the circle I have learned that you must do everything for yourself and that you can not wait for that hand to help to succeed in life. I feel that diversity circle has helped me to do those things in my future."
"I would suggust Diversity Circle to all my friends or anyone for that matter. It would be an eye opener for some people and I think that we all need that. In order for us to change, we must recongnize racism. It does exist and it helps to talk about it."
"I really put my guard down and said anything and everything that was on my mind. I was about to tell a story that has been bothering me for awhile but never really said too much about it. The fact that I was able to tell someone my story really made me feel better and relieved that someone heard my feelings and understood what I had to say."
"My experience in diversity circles was the ultimate positive experience. I have gained much knowledge, respect, and understanding for others."
"Through our sessions I have learned to forgive and ignore the few instances I have had with other races and love again. I also have learned how I can apply my knowledge and love in helping my community and the people I associate with deal with diversity. Through diversity circles I was able to understand other races feeling about race because it was ok to talk about it."
"I can easily say that the participation in this dialogue was very beneficial to me because I gained a sense of hope. At times I get frustrated and discouraged by the trials and tribulations as a black male in America, but this class taught me to continue the fight and never give up."
