Human Relations Commission Invites Public To Participate In Study Circle Program

BA/circle.pr 97-62 Contact: Odessa Shannon, 301-468-4260

HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION
INVITES PUBLIC TO PARTICIPATE
IN STUDY CIRCLE PROGRAM For Immediate Release: March 4, 1997

The Montgomery County Human Relations Commission is inviting residents interested
in helping to promote racial, cultural and ethnic understanding to participate in a new Study
Circle Program, which will kick off on March 21, at the University of Maryland Shady Grove
campus, 9640 Gudelsky Dr., Rockville.
County Executive Douglas M. Duncan and Council President Marilyn J. Praisner will
be among those who will speak to participants about the importance of community
involvement in improving relations among diverse populations. Following remarks by
officials, study circles will be formed and will hold their first meetings.
Study circles are groups of 10 to 15 persons who meet regularly over a period of
weeks or months to address a critical public issue. Led by a facilitator, the groups examine
various perspectives, from personal experiences to general viewpoints.
According to the Study Circles Research Center, based in Connecticut, study circles
allow participants to recognize the connection between personal experiences and public
policies. The circles also promote a desire by the residents to work together to solve local
problems.
The free, half-day program, which also marks The United Nations Day for the
Elimination of Racial Discrimination, will begin at 8 a.m.; refreshments will be served. Pre-
registration is required. Call 301-468-4260.

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