ASSUMPTIONS OF DIALOGUE CULTURE

A workshop on cooperation between unions and nongovernmental organizations, World Social Forum, Puerto Alegre, Brazil - 2003

• People with strong differences can relate to each other honestly and respectfully
  
• Sacred assumptions can be openly and non-defensively explored
  
• People can relate to each other as unique and complex human beings
  
• The seemingly unspeakable can be spoken – and heard by others
  
• People can seek a deep understanding of multiple and conflicting opinions and ideas
  
• Even where there is disagreement and disapproval, compassion and understanding can displace animosity
  
• By listening actively and speaking truth from their own perspective, participants can expand their vision of what can be done