Published October 22 2014
At the next Cultural Conversations gathering on October 28, the group will explore the topic of empathy as a personal expression that creates a safe space to build relationships and create community.
The meeting, titled "Empathy Across Culture," takes place 1- 2:30 p.m., Tuesday, October 28, at Crossroads Community Center, 16000 NE 10th St. Cultural Conversations is a women's group that meets approximately every six weeks. The group seeks to build community connections and cultural understanding.
Attendees will discuss whether there is a universal language of empathy and explore whether, or how, empathetic expression varies due to age, upbringing, history, race and ethnicity. Other topics may include: what gets in the way of empathy; what gets in the way recognizing that someone needs to be heard; and the impacts of time or location.
This month's meeting features storyteller Maria Sitzmann, who will identify elements of empathetic connection she felt from volunteers during her initial visit to Bellevue's Mini City Hall. This connection allowed Sitzmann to share her story of survival, to receive the support needed to make empowering life changes and to give back to the community.
Cultural Conversations was launched in 2010 as a partnership between diverse women in the community and the City of Bellevue. It was initiated by women with a desire to get better connected with their community and enhance their understanding of different cultural practices. Gatherings include women from around the world. The events are free, refreshments are served and women of all ages, faiths and cultures are welcome to attend. To fully participate in the sharing, attendees are encouraged to make arrangements for childcare.
For more information on this event or future Cultural Conversations programs, please contact Carol Ross at 425-452-7917 or cross@bellevuewa.gov or Barb Tuininga at 425-452-2800 or btuininga@bellevuewa.gov.