SIU System’s Next Conversation of Understanding Looks at Ways to have Respectful, Useful Civil Discourse

SIU System's Next Conversation of Understanding Looks at Ways to have Respectful, Useful Civil Discourse

September 17, 2024, 8:35 AM

In a time when conversations may quickly escalate to divisive and explosive confrontations, Southern Illinois University (SIU) System's Conversation of Understanding (COU) presents its next topic of discussion. "The Power of Civil Discourse: Strategies for Productive Dialogue" seeks to champion considerate and beneficial discourse in today's polarized society.

The Conversation will be held from 12-1:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept.19 in-person at the SIU Carbondale Student Center's Ohio Room and online at https://bit.ly/SIUConversation.

"Civil discourse is the foundation of healthy civic engagement, allowing us to navigate complex issues, bridge divides, and build stronger, more inclusive communities," said Sheila Caldwell, EdD, SIU System Vice President for Antiracism, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, and Chief Diversity Officer. "This Conversation of Understanding will focus on the importance of dialogue in fostering critical thinking skills and understanding."

Time will be spent exploring strategies for engaging in difficult conversations with those who hold different political or social views, emphasizing the goal of productive dialogue and understanding, according to Caldwell.

"By approaching discussions with empathy and respect, we can create an environment where all voices are heard and valued," she said.

Following the dialogue, participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and share their thoughts from 1-1:30 pm. This Q&A session will allow for deeper exploration of the topics discussed and provide a space for open, considerate conversation.

Conversations of Understanding have become a fixture across the SIU System and our individual campuses. They are a series of exchanges where students, alumni, faculty, staff and the broader SIU communities can share their experiences and thoughts on a variety of themes related to antiracism, diversity, equity and inclusion. We want to be a model for others in higher education and be recognized as a leader in our region and beyond for our work in fostering understanding of relevant contemporary issues.

The Southern Illinois University System employs more than 7,000 faculty, staff and administrators who serve approximately 23,500 students through our campuses in Carbondale, Edwardsville and Springfield. The SIU System Office and SIU Medical School are in Springfield, Illinois as well as SIU Medicine clinics that serve thousands of patients.