What is Intergroup Dialogue?

“Intergroup Dialogue is a form of democratic practice, engagement, problem-solving, and education involving face-to-face, focused, facilitated and confidential discussions occurring over time between two or more groups of people defined by their different social identities” (Schoem & Hurtado, 2001). In their book, Intergroup Dialogue: Deliberate Democracy in School, College, Community and Workplace, Schoem and Hurtado describe in detail the following characteristics of dialogue:

• Dialogue is a process, not an event.
• Dialogue is about relationship building and thoughtful engagement about difficult issues.
• Dialogue requires an extended commitment.
• Dialogue takes place face-to-face.
• Dialogue focuses on both intergroup conflict and community building.
• Dialogue is about inquiry and understanding.