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Tolerance recognizes the universal human rights, fundamental freedoms, and dignity of others. People are naturally diverse; only tolerance can ensure the survival of mixed communities in every region of the globe. As people have moved within the United States or from other parts of the world, our communities have changed. Division within societies and wars between them are often fuelled by intolerance for differences. What might we achieve in the United States and around the globe if we adopt tolerance as a guiding principle?
Let's Get Started!
This Living Room Conversation flows through three rounds of questions and a closing. Some rounds ask you to answer each question. Others feature multiple questions that serve as conversation starters — you need only respond to the one or two you find most interesting.
Introductions: Getting Started/
Why Are We Here?
Round 1: Core Values
- What sense of purpose / mission / duty guides you in your life?
- What would your best friend say about who you are and what inspires you?
- What are your hopes and concerns for your community and/or the country?
- What is the difference, if any, between tolerance, understanding, and acceptance?
- What does tolerance mean to you?
- Is tolerance a quality you value in yourself and others? Why or why not?
- Have you experienced being the target of intolerance? What happened?
- Is there risk in tolerating those different from you? If so, what is the risk?
- What, if anything, causes you to be intolerant?
Round 3: Reflection & Next Steps
- In one sentence, share what was most meaningful / valuable to you in the experience of this Living Room Conversation.
- What learning, new understanding or common ground was found on this topic?
- Has this conversation changed your perception of anyone in this group, including yourself?
- What is one important thing you thought was accomplished here?
- Is there a next step you would like to take based upon the conversation you just had?