Brett Phelps
Staff photographer
Chautauqua Dialogues, programmed through the IDEA Office and Department of Religion, are spaces where community members from all backgrounds gather for civil conversations, and participants can be a resource for one another to learn from and share life experiences. It is a safe space that allows participants to be vulnerable, listen intently, and communicate openly.
Conversations may be themed around the week’s theme, and facilitators are always on hand to help guide conversations. New journals help, too, and the Dialogues’ Lecture Journals are provided at every session. Folks are encouraged to journal during the lectures, organizing ideas to remember key takeaways during dialogue sessions.
The ultimate goal of participating in Chautauqua Dialogues is to have open and honest conversations with participants from all walks of life about a vast array of topics.
The Dialogues have long been staples after afternoon lectures, and expanded in recent years to denominational houses. This summer the spirit of the initiative can be found right outside Chautauquans’ doors.
New this season is the Red Bench Project. Red benches have been placed around the grounds, and taking a seat indicates an open invitation: Anyone is welcome to sit and have a conversation with anybody, anytime, about anything.
