Talking Circles: listening sessions for our community
Nov. 14, 2023
Dear Members of the Brandeis Community,
We are keenly aware of the growing tensions all around regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza and Israel. Accordingly, we would like to offer opportunities for members of our community to reflect on, and process their own responses to these events in a safe, respectful environment. This will be a space where feelings and opinions can be shared across political, religious, ethnic, national, and racial divisions. These efforts are being coordinated through the Dean of Arts and Sciences, Human Resources, Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and the Office of the Provost.
Drawing on the principles of Talking Circles as practiced in Indigenous communities, we invite all community members to join in one of several facilitated conversations that we will be hosting this week.
Talking Circles provide opportunities for community members to come together, share their own feelings, and hear others do the same. Facilitators work to ensure that everyone who wishes to be heard are given the same chance to speak, though participants are also welcome to pass on their turn to talk. These Circles can help us process our emotions, identify and evaluate behaviors that may cause harm or distress to others (without the shaming that often accompanies such evaluations). The Circles foster compassion and empathy, and serve as first steps in strengthening our community, and acceptance of accountability we all owe each other.
We will not be focused on debating or assessing the claims made by one side or the other in the conflict. These Circles are a place for self-inquiry and deep listening; a time for checking in with one another, sharing stories, learning about relationships and values, encouraging individual and shared goals. It provides a safe space for taking responsibility for behaviors and choices. When it is your turn, you have the privilege of speaking; when it is not your turn, you have the privilege of listening.
We have scheduled five such opportunities:
- Thursday, November 16 at 9 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 3 p.m.
located in the Alumni Lounge in Usdan - Friday, November 17, at 12 p.m.
located in the Levine Ross Room in Hassenfeld
If there is interest in arranging more sessions, we would be happy to do so. There will be a wait list once we reach capacity in each of the sessions in order to plan further meetings.
If you are interested in participating in one of these Talking Circles, please register online. Each Circle will have no more than twenty participants. If you prefer to register without sharing your name, the registration does allow for that option. Since these Circles are designed for in person interactions for more interpersonal connections, we will consider offering Zoom on as needed basis.
We genuinely hope you will consider joining us, even, or especially, if you are feeling particularly distressed or alienated right now. If you have any questions, please email them to BrandeisOmbuds@Brandeis.edu.
In community,
Lee Bitsóí
Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion