Fostering Inclusion from the Outside In

Many meetings have been organized during the past couple of decades by a growing movement that promotes improved forms of dialogue and public deliberation. The key groups in this movement are providing a range of new resources and tools for those who want to promote inclusive decision making in the meetings. This chapter discusses the principles and practices of interactive deliberation that have been developed by organizations and individuals, focusing in particular on the experience of AmericaSpeaks. Proven principles and practices from the public arena may be useful as an “outside” perspective that will assist leaders striving for inclusion “inside” their organizations. The need for a specific plan for recruiting participants in meetings is important once participation goals are determined. This chapter lists four characteristics of a truly inclusive meeting; all of these characteristics can be seen in 21st Century Town Meetings.