Intergenerational Dialogue to Reduce Prejudice

Residential segregation has severely limited racial integration in public schools andracial hostility and prejudice continue to exist within society. Studies demonstrate that youth may be unprepared as future leaders in dealing with the social justice issues ofa diverse and global economy. Interventions to promote positive civic participation and mutual understanding between groups are essential ingredients for community building and social renewal. Theory suggests an intergenerational dialogic model may provide an effective framework to reduce prejudice among youth. A conceptual model for an intervention is presented. Descriptions of a pilot program and an elaboration of the model for future interventions are included.