DIVERSITY DINNERS

The Mercy and Justice team provided structure for people from diverse backgrounds to meet together in each other’s homes for a meal. This worked well for some, but others met some challenges in making it happen. Eighty-eight people signed up to participate. Eleven groups were formed, and of those, 7 groups managed to meet. Here are some reflections of people’s experiences:

It was good to be in an accepting and open forum to just chat about our own experiences of the past and of now.

What was meaningful? Everyone's openness and the opportunity to talk about things that are usually avoided.

What was scary? Wondering if what you say might offend others or how others will view your opinion.

What was awkward? Deciding how much to reveal or challenge and still keeping conversation real and not superficial.

What opened my eyes? Realising that once you learn about a different culture's background, you become more accepting of and open to that culture.

What opened my eyes? Hearing other people's stories was interesting and gave a bit more context to different cultural experiences during the apartheid era.

What was healing? Humour and laughing, and recognising each other's humanity.

What was healing? A chance for each person to just talk it out.

What was healing? The hospitality shown by hosts and the normalcy of people hanging out together.