Community Dialogues
The Neighborhood and Community Relations (NCR) Department offers “Community Dialogues” to City staff.
Community Dialogues are facilitated conversations, supported by NCR, between City departments and cultural communities as well as other under-represented groups (people with disabilities, renters, etc.) The dialogues take City staff outside City buildings to meet with various community leaders in many of Minneapolis’ significant cultural and community-based locations. Immersive and experiential-learning based, they create an atmosphere for authentic dialogue by meeting community leaders where the community is to learn about each community’s initiatives and concerns.
The first dialogue was held in July 2015 with the City Clerk’s Elections and Voter Services Division. The first day included presentations by the American Indian, Latino, disability and East-African communities at the Minneapolis American Indian Center, Waite House and Brian Coyle Center. The second day included presentations by the Southeast Asian and African communities at the Hmong American Mutual Assistance Association and the Phyllis Wheatley Center. The subjects covered:
- Historical context: General history of the community: how, when and why they are in Minneapolis.
- Community dynamics: The makeup of the community and diverse populations within the community as well as cultural norms and practices.
- Engagement: Effective communication and engagement practices.
The NCR department continues to set up Community Dialogues with other city departments. For more information about the Community Dialogues please contact Christina Kendrick at 612-673-3952 or Christina.Kendrick@minneapolismn.gov.
Last updated Dec 31, 2015
