Across the Divide: Tools for Dialogue in Polarizing Times

This event will take place in-person at The Star of the North. Please register by October 15.

Registration

^$25.00

With Paula Cornell

Event Details

In a polarized world, outrage is easy, and sometimes it feels easier to just walk away from people who think differently than we do— listening instead of turning away takes courage, patience, and practice. When conversations feel tense, divisive, or even impossible, our instinct is often to retreat or shut down. But what if connection is still possible?

This gathering invites you to explore how we can begin to engage across differences. Drawing from the work of Kurt Gray, Dolly Chugh, Bryan Stevenson, Parker Palmer, Daryl Davis, and others, we’ll reflect on how our perceived sense of harm can be a window into those impossible feeling conversations —and how this can help us navigate conflict with more compassion and clarity.

We’ll explore strategies for navigating hard conversations, and look at how to stay connected to our values while reaching across divides. You’ll leave with tools to begin building bridges in your relationships, your community—and within yourself.

This session is for anyone longing for a path of connection in divisive times. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of those you disagree with and a renewed hope for societal wholeness. Whether you’re feeling exhausted, hopeful, curious, or all three—you’re welcome here.

FACILITATOR

Paula Cornell is an enthusiastic idea generator and curious question asker and a facilitator with the Center for Courage and Renewal. She lives in Edmonton, Alberta with her partner and their two greyhounds. Paula has been a social worker for over 10 years and has a Masters of Social Work from Dalhousie University. She has spent most of her career working with people affected by homelessness and poverty. She is currently an instructor and Program Chair of the Child and Youth Care Diploma program at NorQuest College. She teaches Social Work at The King’s University and at MacEwan University. Paula has been practicing Circles of Trust since 2015. She has a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of humanity and is perpetually curious about what it means to live a meaningful life.