STUDY CIRCLES

• Study Circles on Race & Race Relations is a program created by the YWCA; these are small-group, democratic discussions which are being facilitated throughout the community in churches, businesses, and other organizations to foster citizen dialogue and problem solving on racism and race relations. The program also focuses on reducing other types of stereotypes and prejudices based on culture, religion, age, etc.
• This is a national program that has received national recognition. In Delaware, the Department of Labor has made this a mandatory program for all employees and other companies like DuPont and First USA have also found it to be extremely successful in their own organizations.
• In light of continuing conflicts between cultures in our schools, our communities, and internationally, the Stanton/ Wilmington Diversity Committee has a responsibility to our students, faculty and staff to address these issues. We are excited to be able to participate in this service provided by the YWCA and have begun holding Study Circles sessions for both students, staff, and faculty. We hope you will join in!

Here's what one faculty member said about his participation in a DTCC
Faculty Study Circle:

"I believe I speak for the group when I say that this was one of--perhaps THE-- most important professional development experience I have had. And it caused us to become bonded, not only as colleagues but as fellow human beings, in ways that would not otherwise be possible."

Andrew Zimmerman

Here's what one DTCC student said about his participation in a Student
Study Circle:

"[I learned] that everyone is different and come from different
backgrounds but we are all human, we all have feelings and wish to be
respected."

If you are interested in joining a Faculty, Staff or Student Study
Circle, please contact Wendy Trott at wtrott@dtcc.edu.

Study circles: Racism & Race Relations
Pledge of participation for partners

Read the following Pledge of Participation for Partners and 2002 Status
Report to learn more about the YWCA's Study Circles Program...

The YWCA of New Castle County is coordinating a major community partnership to engage local citizens in discussions of race relations in our community. The program will be based on the small-group, democratic discussions known as "study circles." It is modeled after successful programs already established in a number of communities around the country.
In a typical study circle, a group of 1 0 to 1 5 people meet 5 to 6 times to discuss an issue of common concern. Each meeting lasts about 2 hours. Reading materials provide structure for the dialogue, and a discussion facilitator helps ensure lively but focused discussion. Study circles are different from the kinds of meetings people often avoid.

In study circles:

OUR VISION:
To improve the understanding and acceptance of differing races and cultures throughout the New Castle County area.

OUR MISSION:
To provide the community with practical recommendations for actions which organizations, institutions, and individuals can take to improve race relations and racial equality.

OUR GOAL:
To develop a diverse community-wide network of at least 100 study circles involving up to 1000 people in discussions of race relations.

OUR STRATEGY:

Wilmington Center
233 King Street • Wilmington, Delaware 19801
(302) 658-7161 • Fax: (302) 658-7548
Newark Center

318 South College Avenue • Newark, Delaware 19711
(302)368-9173 • Fax: (302)368-1673