Intergroup dialogue program to promote discussion, understanding

The Brookings Public Library, along with co-sponsors from the Brookings Inclusive Collaborative, Brookings Human Rights Commission, South Dakota State University Office of Multicultural Affairs and Accessibility and the Brookings Interfaith Council, is organizing a series of intergroup dialogues throughout September and October.

During these dialogues, groups led by trained facilitators will meet over five weeks to communicate across differences and explore challenging topics affecting them and their community.

Mikaela Neubauer, the library’s community services coordinator and program co-organizer, is excited to see Brookings residents work together to better understand each other.

“Through these dialogues, community members get to share their voices and perspectives,” Neubauer said. “Not only do you get to meet new people from different backgrounds, but you also get to sit down and have open, constructive conversations.”

Those interested in participating in these dialogues are invited to attend the kickoff event at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 12, in the library’s Cooper Room. At the kickoff, participants will learn what to expect from the program, hear from keynote speaker Taneeza Islam and be able to register to be part of a dialogue group. Light refreshments will be served.

Anyone interested in this opportunity is asked to RSVP online. Email Neubauer with any further questions.

This program is made possible by the South Dakota Humanities Council, an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.