Introduction: Beyond Borders, Labels, and Divides

ABSTRACT

We live in a time of deep political and social divisions that permeate our everyday conversations, relationships, and life experiences. As such, it has become increasingly difficult to engage classroom conversations on seemingly open topics without labeling, assuming, or being pulled into positions that stymie openness, curiosity, and critical thinking. This book explores the use of globally informed, culturally rooted approaches to dialogue in the classroom. In this introductory chapter, we describe the genesis of this book;contextualize dialogue within the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic;provide beginning descriptions of inclusion, intersectionality, and authenticity;distinguish dialogue from other practices;and discuss times in which dialogue may not be possible. Finally, we conclude with an overview of each chapter contribution in this book. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2021.