These days, it can be hard to have meaningful conversations about challenging topics with people we disagree with. This week is BC’s first ever Voices United – A Week of Campus-Wide and Civic Conversation. Click here for Thursday and Friday’s events!
More Information:
What: Voices United – A Week of Campus-Wide and Civic Conversation
When: May 22-26
Where: In-Person and Virtual
Learn more.
Join us for these free events, open to all students, faculty, staff, and community. No registration needed. Most are both in-person and online.
Thursday’s events:
Let’s Talk: Building a Movement For All, with Manu Meel, CEO of BridgeUSA
When: Thursday, May 25, 10:30 a.m.-11:20 a.m.
Where: N201 & Zoom
Join Manu Meel, the CEO of BridgeUSA, to discuss how we can build a new vision for our democracy at Bellevue College. A vision that prioritizes curiosity, open-mindedness, and understanding for those we disagree with. Manu is building a youth-led movement with 70 college and high school chapters across the country.
Fostering the Campus Culture We Want, with Manu Meel
When: Wednesday, May 24, 11:30 a.m.-12:20 p.m.
Where: B201 (Board Room) & Zoom
Join Manu Meel from BridgeUSA – a growing movement that centers students to promote depolarizing dialogue on campuses – for an informal conversation about how each of us can play a role in shaping our civic culture here at Bellevue College, how we balance free speech with safety, and how we contribute to the community we want – both on and off campus.
Bringing Civic Conversations to the Classroom, with Manu Meel (BridgeUSA) – Faculty Only
When: Thursday, May 25, 12:30-1:30 p.m.
Where: D106 & Zoom
Join us for a special event featuring the founder of BridgeUSA, a national organization dedicated to promoting constructive dialogue and civic engagement on college campuses. This is event designed for faculty members who are interested in learning how to bring meaningful conversations and civic participation to their classrooms and campus.
The Power of Students to Build Bridges and Make Change, with Manu Meel (BridgeUSA) – Students Only
When: Thursday, May 25, 1:45-2:45 p.m.
Where: C130A
While in college, Manu Meel helped to found a student group that later expanded into a nationwide movement for civic engagement, BridgeUSA. This fast-growing student movement focuses on how we bridge our differences and change the way we talk about politics. Come chat with Manu and learn more about building bridges with those around you even when it seems impossible or unproductive. Explore the power you have as students to make a change on your campus and in your communities.
Fostering Trust, Healing, & Accountability through Restorative Practices – Faculty & Staff Only
When: Thursday, May 25, 2-5 p.m.
Where: B207 (Social Justice Center)
Gain tools to respond to harm & build community while discussing relevant scenarios and restorative principles.
Register here.
Friday’s events:
Reflection and Growth: Nurturing Active Listening and Constructive Dialogue Through Teaching Table Presentations, with Dr. Shadi Kanan and Students (Nursing) – Faculty Only
When: Friday, May 26, 10:30-11:20 a.m.
Where: D106 & Zoom
Join this interactive workshop focused on teaching tables, a strategy for students to implement active listening, respectful dialogue, and guided mediation. Learn how to establish ground rules for interactions while addressing disagreements and conflicts constructively. You will also learn how to maintain confidentiality during teaching table presentations. In this workshop, teaching tables are used to help you gain practical skills in fostering respect, nurturing positive interactions, and leveraging disagreements for personal growth in your classroom. This thought-provoking session will empower you to create a supportive and inclusive environment for productive discussions and collaborative problem-solving.
Civic Dialogue Potluck – Staff Only
When: Friday, May 26, 12:00-1:00 p.m.
Where: D106 & Zoom
Join your staff and administrator colleagues for a lunchtime conversation about how we can engage with and contribute to our campus civic culture. Let’s explore our unique perspectives, often but not always working behind the scenes to ensure student success. What does our unique vantage point provide when building a community that welcomes students and colleagues of all backgrounds and beliefs? Bring food to share, if you prefer. Come join us for this final conversation of Voices United.
Contact rise@bellevuecollege.edu with any questions.
Last Updated May 25, 2023