Conversations were carried live on the radio statewide. At a time when the rural-urban disconnect seems to be widening, this project continues to connect citizens around issues that are important to the public good of the State. Significance Clearly, the conversations had impact on the individuals who participated at each of the sites. Concurrently, there was impact on people who listened on the radio, and to some who participated by calling in. Likewise, policy makers were asked to pay attention to the on-air conversation.
People remember the programs even now, months later.
For the purpose of this study, contents of the taped programs were analyzed along with review of print media coverage and miscellaneous correspondence. Additionally, informal interviews with participants and observers were conducted. Key Messages Making meaning of the four rural-urban conversations is both a personal and collective experience. The power of these stories represents inspiring potential for building a different and more serious kind of understanding among people from diverse perspectives. Discovery and dialogue about differences commanded equal if not more attention than discovery and dialogue about similarities.