Spaces of solidarity: How intergroup dialogues fostered resilience and connection during dual crises

Utilizing social support theory, a group interview with six facilitators, and reflection essays from 21 students and five facilitators, this study investigated the impacts of COVID-19 and racism on student and facilitator experiences in an IGD course. Additionally, it evaluated the course’s influence on participants’ experiences during the crises. Findings revealed the crises caused significant financial, social, and mental health struggles for participants. However, the IGD acted as a supportive space, fostering empathy, boosting social awareness, and providing a critical space for connection, expression, and emotional relief. These findings highlight the value of IGDs as vital tools for addressing educational inequity, which is particularly valuable as individuals seek strategies to reconstruct communities and institutions with equity and inclusion in mind.