EMPATHY SUMMIT
Saturday, January 4, 2025

 Exploring Empathy Circles:  
The Foundational Practice of the
Empathy Movement

By serving as both a training ground and a living example of empathetic communication, empathy circles provide a solid foundation upon which the broader empathy movement can build and expand its influence.

Experienced practitioners delve into the essence of the Empathy Circle practice, elucidating its significance as the cornerstone and entry point of the Empathy Movement. The practice is based in mutual Active Listening. Speakers discuss; 

Join us in this community of practice. 


Join the Series

Register Now

Date: Saturday, January 4, 2025

Time: 9 am PT to 12:30 pm PT  -  World Times

Location: Zoom https://zoom.us/j/9896109339  
RECORDING:   Part of the event will be recorded and posted to social media for educational and promotional purposes. You have an option of being in a non recorded breakout group. 


INVITE FRIENDS

Speakers and Hosting Team
Speakers will have 5 to 10 minutes to speak on some aspect of the Empathy Circle Practice. If you would like to be a speaker, email EdwinRutsch@gmail.com
Send a one sentence bio, the title of your proposed talk, a 2 or 3 sentence abstract for consideration, length of talk 5 or 10 min.

Program: Saturday, January 4

All times are Pacific Time

9:00 am PT  Introduction (10 min)


9:?? Speaker: Cara Jean Wilson (10 min)



9:?? Speaker: Ruth Cook (5 min) 

The effort of listening is more on what They are truly saying and Feeling rather than how am I interpreting What I hear and What do I think of what I hear?”

Not interjecting my opinions, thoughts, questions, judgements onto what they say, purely acknowledging their point of view of what they wanted to say, is that feeling of equanimity. Not particularly to accept what they say and how it seems they feel, but recognising this Is how the other person is living through their experience, at this particular moment in time.


9:??  am Speaker: Yehuda Tagar 



9:?? am Speaker: Minter Dial  (10 min)


9:??  am Speaker: Felicia Darling  (15 min)




10:00 am PT  Introduction (10 min)


10:xx am Speaker: 


10:xx am Speaker: 



10:xx am Speaker: 


10:xx am Speaker: 


10:xx am Speaker: 




11 am PT:  Empathy Circle - 90 min
A 90 min participatory dialogue using the Empathy Circle process.

How to Empathy Circle   (10 min)

Empathy Circle (1:00 hr) 

Debrief (15 min)

Next Steps: (2 min)


Empathy Circles are considered the foundational practice of the Empathy Movement for several key reasons: 

Structured Dialogue for Mutual Understanding

Empathy Circles provide a structured dialogue process that effectively supports meaningful and constructive conversation1. The basic process can be learned relatively quickly, but offers a lifelong practice for deepening listening and empathy skills1. This structured approach ensures that each participant feels fully heard and understood12.

Gateway to Empathy Skills

The Empathy Circle is described as the most effective gateway practice for learning, practicing, and deepening listening and empathy skills1. It serves as an entry point for developing an empathic way of being, making it accessible to a wide range of participants.

Creating Safe Spaces

Empathy Circles create safe spaces where people can talk, vent, and express themselves freely4. This is particularly important during times of crisis or when addressing sensitive topics. The practice allows for authentic sharing and connection among participants.

Breaking Echo Chambers

By bringing together diverse groups of people, Empathy Circles help break down echo chambers and promote understanding across different perspectives4. This is crucial for fostering empathy on a broader societal level.

Versatility and Adaptability

Empathy Circles can be adapted to various settings and purposes, from corporate environments to community groups3. They can address a wide range of topics and be used in different formats, such as the Empathy Café or more structured dialogues2.

Building Empathic Communities

The practice helps in building supportive, empathic communities5. It creates opportunities for people to connect on a deeper level, fostering relationships and networks based on mutual understanding and empathy.

Promoting a Culture of Empathy

Ultimately, Empathy Circles contribute to the larger vision of building a culture of empathy5. They serve as a practical tool for promoting and fostering the value and experience of empathy on a global scale.


By providing a simple yet powerful method for practicing empathy, Empathy Circles lay the groundwork for broader empathic engagement and understanding, making them a cornerstone of the Empathy Movement.