Resources, funding, and events to advance inclusive school communities
JANUARY 2023
Greetings!
Constructive and inclusive dialogue has been a cornerstone of the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities’ work dating back to our founding in 1935. On November 25 of that year, a group of religious leaders traveling the country to share a message of understanding and respect spoke on the campus of Lynchburg College (now the University of Lynchburg). The dialogue modeled by this Rabbi, Priest, and Minister team catalyzed the founding of the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities and informs work that continues to this day.
Over eight decades later, the need for constructive and inclusive dialogue remains. At a time of great separation due to the pandemic and political polarization, VCIC is proud to release a new Guide to Constructive and Inclusive Dialogue to kick off 2023. This Guide is designed to provide frameworks, tools, and resources to support dialogues that can (re-)build community. It is intended to be used by individuals and institutions interested in planning or organizing dialogues as they consider whether or not a dialogue is the best option, how to structure a dialogue session or series, who to invite, and more.
As 2023 begins, please let us know how VCIC can support your community. You can see day-to-day updates about our work by following VCIC on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. We look forward to working with you!
VCIC Updates & Announcements
2022-2023 Student Forums
VCIC is excited to return to in-person student forums in the 2022-2023 school year. The following programs are coming up:
January 12 - Lynchburg Prejudice Awareness Summit(free for Lynchburg-area middle schools thanks to sponsorship from Atlantic Union Bank)
March 8 - Tidewater Diversity Dialogue Day(free for Tidewater-area high schools thanks to Dominion Energy)
March 14 - Lynchburg Diversity Dialogue Day(free for Lynchburg-area high schools thanks to Dominion Energy)
During this period of continued challenge and uncertainty in our society, the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities remains a steadfast force for good. Thanks to your support, VCIC continues to be a go-to resource to help Virginia’s schools, businesses, and communities achieve success through inclusion. Click here to read how VCIC made a difference in FY22!
Partner Spotlight: Chutzpah & Courage
Chutzpah and Courage works to make our world a safer place through programming that discourages bullying, discrimination and anti-Semitism. Programs are built around literary works centered on the Holocaust and include author presentations and curriculum projects. Click here to learn more!
Workplace Inclusion Network
Through the Workplace Inclusion Network, VCIC convenes professionals who support or lead diversity and inclusion efforts within their organizations for expert-led professional development sessions. The 2023 series has just been announced and will focus on the theme, "Past, Present, Future." Learn more about WIN and register your organization!
Featured Articles and Curriculum
This month's article and curriculum links focus on art. Please share your ideas and suggestions for future updates!
