Columbia University has been torn by deep divisions in recent years between vital political activism and the need for the university to continue its regular activities in research and learning. There are ongoing discussions on campus about what it means to have empathy for others—and their feelings when confronted with various actions, symbols, and words. People in our community think differently about how far to extend the principle that speech and conduct should avoid what others experience as threatening and hurtful. Discovering this point—or just understanding the myriad points of view and experiences among us—can only be done through face-to-face dialogue. Listening is vital to such conversation. It opens up a space where curiosity about another way of thinking can take the fore, where we can genuinely listen to each other’s point of view, and where discomfort can be explored with respect and an open mind.

A diverse group of Columbia faculty, postdocs, and students at the Trust Collaboratory is involved in the Listening Tables program. The tables are meant to generate connection and understanding, as well as a reservoir of feedback and new ideas around both difficult topics. We believe Columbia has the capacity to be a model in which even the hardest problems can be discussed, minds can meet, people can grow, and community can be co-created.