WHO WE ARE
In 1995, Los Angeles’ deeply divided reaction to the verdict in the O.J. Simpson trial underscored how far apart the diverse communities of Los Angeles and the nation stand on some basic issues. As a result, then-Los Angeles City Councilperson Mark Ridley-Thomas called a meeting with 20 prophetic leaders and community activists to defuse escalating tensions. Out of this was born an innovative nonpartisan initiative, Los Angeles’ first citywide discussion—A Day of Dialogue.
Since then, tens of thousands of people, both locally and nationally, have participated in Days of Dialogue programs. Dialogues take place in large civic auditoriums, at schools, in places of worship, neighborhood community centers, fire houses and police stations, and now, in virtual settings online.
Days of Dialogue: Racism, Policing, the Pandemic + Beyond
RECENT TOPICS
TESTIMONIALS
“We talked about why the police came here today- they wanted to make friends (and eat tamales).”
“…how to do well and stay out of gangs… how to fix it before it starts.”
“We all need a better understanding of who we all are, our roles and responsibilities. Dialogues help with this.”
“This dialogue helped me think about guns and gun violence. It’s something that is around us, in our lives.”
“It’s so hard to be a neutral facilitator! My coach Rafeal helped me form a good sense of what it takes to do this.”
“We are aware of all the mass shootings, the school shootings and the drive by shootings. This could happen anywhere. I want to feel safe wherever I am.”
DAYS OF DIALOGUE ON THE FUTURE OF POLICING
REPORTS
Each of the following reports consists of pre and post dialogue survey responses, photos, and participants’ comments. Respondents typically report that the dialogue process is constructive. In the safe spaces that we create, our attendees engage openly, and they candidly relay diverse perspectives. Frequently, after showing up and participating in a single committed dialogue, the majority of participants- whether community members or law enforcement- report that they are able to see issues in a whole new light.
Considering Dialogues?
Hosting a dialogue is not difficult or time consuming. A “host organization” provides a site for the dialogue, and invites and motivates the organization’s members, local community residents, and/or constituents to attend. Days of Dialogue staff assist in this process and provide written discussion materials and facilitators to lead the dialogue.