Election Season Circles
Election season impacts all of us. Find a circle that meets your needs.
Build Community this Election Season
Interested in talking with people who hold opposing views, without arguing or defending yourself?
Want to process the current moment with those who hold similar views?
Looking for a way to explore how a community can support strongly held and seemingly opposed viewpoints?
Join an Election Season Circle
A circle is a group that promotes deeper community and better engagement across differences. These facilitated circles will focus on building community and growing understanding across differences in the shared experience of the stress, uncertainty, and polarization of election season. Students will be encouraged to share their perspectives honestly and learn to cultivate respect in disagreement. The goal is not to debate issues or change minds, but to understand and connect with one another.
In Election Season Circles, you will:
- Connect intentionally (over a free meal) with other William & Mary students in the lead up to and aftermath of the presidential election
- Grow your dialogue and listening skills (think: practicing the principles of a Better Argument)
- Discuss practical ways our community can navigate the tension and uncertainty of this season together and cultivate care for those with whom we disagree
You can choose to join a circle with like-minded peers or one with a mix of political opinions.
The Details
When are these happening? Circles will begin meeting the week of October 14 (post-Fall Break). Each circle will meet 3 times, twice before the election and at least once after. Sign-ups are open through Friday, September 27 or until all circles are full.
How long is each meeting of the circle? Each circle is an hour and 15 minutes and will meet over lunch or dinner (provided!)
Do I have to commit to all the meetings? We know life happens, but we also know that community takes intentionality. We ask that you sign up with a good faith commitment to attend all circles.
I'm interested but I have questions before committing. Reach out to conflictres@wm.edu with any questions or concerns.
How can I have these kinds of conversations in a group I'm already a part of? Email conflictres@wm.edu for a guide and resources to hosting a circle in an existing org or team.
