In South Africa, we work and school with people of different races. So it is possible for all of us to work together to bring about an atmosphere that moves us towards reconciliation and away from alienation.
George Yancey says you should identify a person in your social network, not necessarily of a different race. The key is ideological disagreement, not race. If they are close enough, go out for coffee or a Coke. If they are long distance, see about a phone call. Once you are with them, ask about their ideas on racial issues.
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Then just listen. Once they are done, reiterate what they told you in your own words. Go back and forth until they state that you understand their perspective.
Do not try to argue with them. You do not have to agree with them, but do not argue.
If they want to know your perspective, they can ask. But if they do not ask, let it go. You have heard them and you know where they come from. That is your only goal in this exercise.
You may fairly ask what this may accomplish. After all, there has been no agreement forged.
First, you truly understand the opposite opinion rather than a caricature of that opinion.
Those you disagree with will be humanised and that allows for the potential of dialogue. Those you listen to will know that you know their perspective and will be in a position to have felt heard. You will greatly increase the chances that they will respect what you state even if they never allow you the chance to enjoy active listening as well.
Furthermore, as a people, we will be in a better position to understand how to talk to each other and construct answers to our racial strife that accommodate the needs of those other than ourselves. We cannot reasonably believe ourselves to be able to address the concerns of others if we do not know what they are.
Reference material: What You Can Do to Improve Race Relations
