March 29, 2024

First Veteran-Civilian Dialogue planned for Tuesday

Newton is set to host its first Veteran-Civilian Dialogue and Service Project event facilitated by New York City-based Intersections International.

The dialogue will take place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday with the service project at 9:30 a.m. the following Saturday, both at the Centre for Arts and Artists, 501 W. Third St. N.

“We are looking forward to the upcoming Newton Veteran Civilian Dialogue and Service Project. No doubt important stories will be told and heard,” said Craig Light, executive director of the Newton Chamber of Commerce.

The dialogue through Intersections International is partnering with the Centre for Arts and Artists, the Greater Des Moines Partnership, the Newton Chamber of Commerce and Central College to have a time for veterans and civilians bridge the gap by helping service personnel transition back to civilian life and by providing a place for civilians to step forward in new and responsible engagement with veterans. Previously, Central College hosted a dialogue exceeding expectations in attendance as well as creating great conversations between veterans and civilians.

“I think it is great they are getting these folks together,” said Jasper County Treasurer Doug Bishop. “It will be good so the veterans feel more comfortable in a neutral setting to not necessarily talk about their combat experience but just have a conversation. We are really excited to see where this will lead in the future.”

Dialogues typically last 90 minutes and are free to attend. It is led by facilitators from Intersections International and has aspects of artistic expression during each event including drama, music and poetry. Different themes that serve as starting points include community wellness, stereotypes, mentorship and interpersonal relationships.

The service project is new for the dialogue in central Iowa and will be an art project facilitated by the Centre for Arts and Artists that is accessible to people from all backgrounds and includes those with no art experience.

“The VCD event transforms from a “Veteran-Citizen Dialogue” into a “Service Together” art project that will eventually unite every attendee’s own personal art masterpiece VCD message into a larger community art masterpiece,” Light said. “The purpose of this community art masterpiece is to remind us that the VCD is extremely important, should never be forgotten and should occur forevermore”

Founded in 2007, Intersections International is a non-government organization that works at the intersection of people and communities in conflict through peaceful dialogue using direct service programs, advocacy, educational and informational outreach according to its website. Launched in 2009, there have been more than 3,400 participants in more than 50 dialogues in cities throughout the country.

Contact Jamee A. Pierson at 641-792-3121 ext. 6534 or jpierson@newtondailynews.com