The Red Bench

The Red Bench

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Each conversation is centered on moderated small group discussions that are genuinely respectful and safe. No one has to be an expert. Individual participants are invited to share from their personal experiences and listen with their hearts. The format is structured and allows each individual to be heard. Each table is “hosted” by one or two table hosts. We frequently provide training for individuals who would like to be iACT Red Bench Hosts. Training does not obligate you to host but will deepen your experience as a participant. If you are interested in becoming a table host, please e-mail us at iact@interfaithtexas.org

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34+ Years of Experience

The Red Bench is an ongoing dialogue program designed to address one of the most pressing needs of our time: improving interfaith understanding and civil discourse in our society.

Inspired by Dr. Flowers’ idea, iACT launched The Red Bench program in 2009 and it has quickly grown into a genuine community of sharing. We focus on ideas and issues that are addressed by all of the great wisdom traditions and “topical” subjects that face our community and nation.

Several years ago, renowned UT Professor Dr. Betty Sue Flowers recommended that organizations place red benches in public spaces. The idea was simple — by sitting on one of these red benches you were signaling to others that you were open to a conversation that really matters. The red bench is a symbol of a place for conversations that “cultivate peace and respect.”

Following our Red Bench dialogue in March about Mental Health, we wanted to make sure plenty of mental health resources and information is available to our community. Please see this page for more information about mental health awareness, and to take a brief survey about last month’s Red Bench conversation.

Upcoming Red Bench Conversations:
May 28: REST
June 25: TBD
September 24: TBD

If you are interested in volunteering for The Red Bench or iACT, contact us and please include your full name and how we may contact you.

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To be updated on when conversations and trainings occur, please subscribe to our email list and connect with us on Facebook or X.

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