Community Kōrero tikanga
Along with our general event tikanga, here are the values and practices that Changing Minds have in place for our Community Kōrero Lived Experience in the World session—
Changing Minds Safety Net
As much as possible, Changing Minds wants to let the kōrero sit with participants. We encourage participants to share news and stories about what’s happening in the world – whether it’s in your own back yard, Aotearoa, or beyond!
However, if a news story raises safety concerns or touches on a particularly sensitive subject, the Changing Minds facilitator will step in to safeguard participants. This might look like additional tikanga or pausing the kōrero. If a pause does happen, the facilitator will reach out to relevant participants to see if there are other channels where the story can be discussed and, if necessary, actioned on safely.
Timekeeping
If a topic garners strong interest from multiple participants, or there are multiple topics, the facilitator may utilise time keeping skills to make sure everyone has a chance to participate in the kōrero! If this happens, it is not to cut off or limit anyone’s sharing, but only to make best use of our limited time together to ensure everyone is heard!
Disagreements and debate
Talking about world events, particularly when it involves our health and wellbeing, can lead to politically and emotionally charged conversations.
Disagreements are healthy and normal. Acknowledging difference in opinion is vital to feeling seen and heard. If, however, debate continues without progressing, or becomes unsafe, your facilitator may move the kōrero forward.
Our goal is personal impact, not agreement
If participants leave without agreeing on or finding the ‘right’ answer, that’s ok! This session is less about arguing over facts and instead focused on personal impact and community wellbeing. The goal of this session is to discuss how we might work together, even in large social or political spaces, to improve mental wellbeing for all. Even those we disagree with.