Why should we talk? The power of uncomfortable conversations with Meredith Preston McGhie - Centre for Pluralism

Feb. 3, 2025 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Room 150, Telus International Centre, 11104 87 Ave NW

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We live in a time when our differences and divisions feel more stark. Scarcity, anxiety, division and conflict can feel like reasons to contract, to narrow how we define our communities and who we engage with. In fact, in these moments, leaning into dialogue, mutual curiosity and understanding, and finding ways to collaboratively and deliberately build spaces for belonging are ever more important.

Acknowledging how incredibly challenging this is for all of us is part of the path and process forward. The discussion focuses on the power of pluralism, the power of reciprocal recognition and belonging and what it means to have these uncomfortable conversations in the rare and difficult spaces of the middle ground in today’s world.

This event is presented in partnership with the University of Alberta Office of the Vice-Provost, Access, Community and Belonging and the Office of the Dean, College of Social Sciences and the Humanities.

About

Meredith Preston McGhie
Meredith Preston McGhie

Meredith Preston McGhie is the Secretary-General for the Global Centre for Pluralism. Previously, Ms. Preston McGhie mediated and advised a range of mediation processes as the Regional Director for Africa with the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue and, before that, with the UN. She served as an advisor to H.E. Kofi Annan during the Kenya National Dialogue and Reconciliation. Through more than 20 years in Africa, she helped to establish and facilitate peace processes in Nigeria, Somalia, Sudan and South Sudan and elsewhere. She contributes to policy discussions on peacemaking globally, including teaching on inclusion and peace process design. Ms. Preston McGhie began her career working with the Naga in North East India and Indigenous minorities in Myanmar.

SDG - 16: Peace, justice and strong institutions

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Cost
Free
Links
International Week
Audience
Community, Public
Faculty, Staff
Undergraduate Students
Graduate Students
Category
Lectures, Seminars
Keywords
International Week