Civil discourse is “robust, honest, frank and constructive dialogue and deliberation that seeks to advance the public interest” (Brosseau, 2011).  It is an exchange of ideas that simultaneously:

• Holds individuals accountable for their voice (how we talk);
• Remains curious about other people’s perspectives (how we hear),
• Respects multiple realities (how we honor personhood).

Civil discourse is not polite conversation, but, rather, intentional dialogue that builds understanding across difference. As Margaret Wheatley states, “We don’t have to let go of what we believe, but we do need to be curious about what someone else believes” (2009).

As a gift from Shelley E. Padnos and Carol Sarosik, the Padnos/Sarosik Center for Civil Discourse in the Brooks College of Interdisciplinary Studies will promote engagement with the concepts and tools of civil discourse. Through the initiatives of this program, Grand Valley hopes to strengthen the commitment to informed, peace-based, and respectful dialogue across the campus community and the neighboring areas of West Michigan. 

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Michigan’s stories are vast, varied, and dynamic.

On November 5th, Michiganders gathered at Grand Valley State University for "Michigan Listens," a Talking Together initiative that sought to spotlight the range of geographies; ideologies; identities; life experiences; and vocations that make up our state. As speakers shared their stories, the audience listened deeply, remaining silent throughout the event. Without the distraction of talking or clapping, the listening of this event sought to remind people of each other’s humanity. After the storytelling, listeners and speakers shared a family-style dinner together. As people shared this meal and passed dishes between them, conversations about the impact of listening to each other as Michiganders rounded out the evening. The limited audience for this initiative was carefully curated to reflect the geographical regions of our state, the communities of our speakers, and the core intention of cultivating a space that centers listening over debate.

We are excited to now invite you to watch the video recording of Michigan Listens and share in the celebration of the vast stories that make up the state of Michigan. 

Video Recording

Michigan Listens was sponsored by the Talking Together: Strengthening Our Communities Through Conversation team (Padnos/Sarosik Center for Civil Discourse; Kaufman Interfaith Institute; Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies; and GVU Public Media) and was supported by GVSU’s Office of the President. MI Listens was a collaboration between GVSU and Boise State University. The Talking Together thanks the Boise State team.

Questions?

Have a question about the Padnos/Sarosik Center for Civil Discourse at GVSU? Feel free to email us at [email protected].