ASSIGNMENT #5: Reflection of self in community Due Date: December 8th, 11:59pm est Points: 30 Description and Instructions: Instructions for Attending an On-Campus or Community Group with Diverse Identities or Opinions different than your own. Research Available Groups: Begin by researching the various on-campus groups or a community group that align with your interests in engaging with diverse identities or opinions. Check the university website, bulletin boards, or social media platforms for information on existing groups that promote inclusivity, diversity, and dialogue. If you are unable to attend an on-campus group, check with your local library and community organizations. Review Group Descriptions: Take the time to review the descriptions and missions of each group to identify those that specifically aim to bring together individuals with diverse identities or opinions. Look for groups that foster open-mindedness, respectful dialogue, and mutual understanding across differences. Attend a Group Meeting: Once you’ve identified a group of interest, determine the time, date, and location of their meetings or events. Make plans to attend their next gathering and mark it on your calendar to ensure you don’t miss it. Prepare Open-Mindedness: Before attending the group meeting, prepare yourself to approach the experience with an open mind and a willingness to listen and learn from others who may hold different identities or opinions than your own. Recognize that diversity of thought and perspective is valuable for fostering growth and understanding. Respectful Engagement: When attending the group meeting, strive to engage with fellow members in a respectful and inclusive manner. You are encouraged to disclose that you are attending because of a course assignment, especially if you only intend to attend once. Listen actively to others’ perspectives, ask questions to gain deeper insights, and avoid making assumptions or judgments based on preconceived notions. Contribute Constructively: Share your own thoughts, experiences, and perspectives in a constructive manner that promotes dialogue and mutual learning. Be mindful of the impact of your words and actions on others, and strive to create a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for all members. Reflect and Learn: After attending the group meeting, take time to reflect on your experience and what you’ve learned from engaging with individuals with diverse identities or opinions. Consider how the experience has broadened your understanding, challenged your assumptions, or inspired you to take action towards promoting inclusivity and diversity in your community. See prompts below. Stay Connected: If you found the group meeting valuable and enriching, consider staying connected with the group by attending future meetings, participating in group activities or events, or getting involved in group initiatives or projects. Building relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds can contribute to personal growth, cultural competence, and social awareness. Prompts: Reflect on a Moment of Understanding: Recall a specific moment during the group meeting where you gained a deeper understanding of someone else’s perspective or experience. What was said or shared that resonated with you, and how did it challenge or expand your own viewpoint? How might this newfound understanding influence your interactions with others in the future? Identify a Personal Growth Opportunity: Consider an aspect of your own beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors that was challenged or questioned during the group meeting. How did you respond to this challenge, and what insights did you gain about yourself in the process? Reflect on any personal growth opportunities that emerged from engaging with diverse identities or opinions, and brainstorm ways to further explore or address these areas of growth moving forward. Plan for Action: Think about how you can translate your reflections from the group meeting into actionable steps for promoting inclusivity, diversity, and dialogue in your personal and/or professional life. What specific actions or behaviors can you commit to implementing based on what you’ve learned? Consider opportunities for further education, advocacy, or relationship-building that align with your values and goals for creating positive change in your community. Length & Formatting: The assignment should be NO MORE THAN 2 double-spaced pages (APA reference page does not count towards total); 12pt. Times New Roman, Aptos, or Calibri font. Please use headings as appropriate to help the reader track along with your thoughts. APA format is required, but no minimum # of references are stipulated. MUST name your file using your name and the title of the assignment (i.e., YOUR FIRST NAME_LAST NAME_Identification of Problem)