Can We CHAT

Can We CHAT (Conversations about History, Awareness and Transformation) is a facilitated group discussion process designed to advance and deepen conversations about any topic or issue related to diversity, equity and inclusion. Rather than a classroom setting with students and instructor, a staged presentation with an audience, or a training exercise, Can We CHAT draws upon the personal experiences, perspectives and inquiry of individuals in the group to determine what is important to convey, absorb and apply based on a particular subject.

Each session is designed as a standalone experience with an advance agenda, recommended resources, discussion guidelines, communication tips, an evaluation tool, and a session content and results summary. Considerable effort is dedicated to creating a safe and enriching space for all participants to voluntarily exchange thoughts and feelings, explore diverse viewpoints, and deepen understandings. Well aware that some participants may have fears of being condemned, dismissed, or rebuked, detailed planning and guidance goes into creating safe and welcoming spaces for participants to exchange thoughts and feelings, explore diverse viewpoints, and deepen understandings. Additional reassurance comes in knowing all sessions are voluntary and participants interact with a mutual desire to learn and grow.

Discussion topics are framed knowing that certain information and perspectives can produce strong and varying degrees of interest and emotion. Talking to others, especially strangers, about a sensitive topic can be awkward, unsettling, and even triggering. As expert practitioners in dispute resolution, Lang & Associates facilitators shape these opportunities to recognize, address and channel discomfort. Participants especially value the chance to meet in small groups before sharing key observations with the larger group.

Can We CHAT sessions are currently available online and in-person.

Can We CHAT At-A-Glance

Guiding principles

Different than trainers or presenters, Can We CHAT facilitators function as the neutral caretakers of the process and purpose. Additionally, as a mixed-race team, they bring to bear a depth of knowledge, skills and experience that support individuals and organizations in not only learning to think together and be more empathetic, but to also practice more effective and meaningful ways to communicate.

The POWER of conversation

Can We CHAT conversations are explicitly designed to provoke new thoughts, exchange different viewpoints without judgment, and stimulate enough curiosity to help us better understand, keep talking, and move forward. Recent topics of conversation include: “Systemic Racism: A Historical Perspective,” “Can We Really Talk about Race?” “The Difference between Equity and Equality,” “Mental Health through a Cultural Lens,” and “The Anti-Racist Workplace.”

Because Can We CHAT conversations can be awkward, complex and even emotionally-triggering, each session concludes with a brief feedback poll and a Positive Note to offer hope for the future.