Study circles are typically made up of ten to fifteen people who meet weekly for two hours over four weeks. A facilitator guides the discussion and asks questions, drawing in different points of view. During the final session, the group decides what can be done about the issue. A cultural expert might be a school counselor, the neighborhood grocer, a minister or a social service provider. They know the history of minority groups in their community and understand how they relate to public schools, social service agencies and community groups.
Some cultural experts are high profile.
They sit on boards or hold positions of leadership or head up community organizations. Others may not be as high profile, but have deep ties to their community, as well as credibility. They are tuned into issues confronting the neighborhood and are well-connected. To some degree, yes. Effective organizers are knowledgeable and responsive to cultural differences.