Host or Attend a Virtual Dinner to Discuss the Race in America

Demonstrations have taken place in all 50 states since Minneapolis police killed George Floyd on May 25. And while thousands of people took part, many others – who would otherwise have joined the protests – stayed at home because we are also in the midst of a global pandemic. But that doesn’t mean you can’t connect with other people and have meaningful conversations about race. Like everything else in our life right now, it can happen virtually.

An organization called Civic Dinners, which organizes community dinners to reduce disconnection, partnered with the King Center to host virtual dinners where people can productively talk about race and injustice with people outside of their normal circles.

How it works

On the Civic Dinners website, you can either register to host or attend a dinner as part of their Bridging the Race Divide Series . If you decide to arrange a meeting, your main role is to set the date, time and virtual room so your guests can get together and use the provided conversation guide. You are then invited to invite four to eight different perspectives to the table, including friends, family, colleagues, neighbors, and community members.

There is also the option to open the virtual dinner to the public. In this case, information about the date and time of the dinner is posted on the Civic Dinners website, and anyone can request an invitation to participate.

Each facilitator is provided with guidance that includes prompts and questions designed to identify personal stories, shared values, and empathetic action. The host will also ensure that everyone at the virtual table is given equal time to share their thoughts and ask questions. In other words, there is no “chosen guest” – everyone at the table is counted. In the same vein, there is a rule that only one person can speak at a time, so that everyone feels heard.

During non-pandemic periods, civil dinners are held in person, but until this happens again, this is a great way to listen to and learn from others.

Looking for ways to protect black lives? Check out this list of resources .

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