Building intergroup relations by removing language barriers

Many of us struggle daily at the task of helping to build community among the different races, ethnic groups and economic classes which make up our diverse State.  However, when we add language differences to the pot, we often become overwhelmed and throw in the towel.  At best, we plan pot lucks or cultural exchanges where everyone shows up in native dress carrying their favorite ethnic dish, smiling politely at one another, then awkwardly drifting off to their own language groups where they feel more comfortable.  Despite sincere attempts by individuals to break down language barriers, there are often insurmountable walls in the workplace, in our churches, schools and neighborhoods which keeps us all apart.

There is a solution!  "Breaking the Language Barrier Together" is a fun, easy, quick, and effective program which helps trust grow among people who speak each other's language only marginally, if at all.  Developed by Jeanne Pieper, it is available in two forms:  as a one time only "ice breaker" for use at any multicultural gathering where participants speak different languages; or as six, 1-½ hour interactive experiences for groups which wish to build even deeper relationships.  Teenagers to Senior Citizens have found the process equally enjoyable, and have often been in the same program.  By giving group members a common task they do together, participants become friends as they practice "small talk" conversational skills in each other's language.  An opportunity to learn a few foreign words is the "carrot" that gets them to agree to participate.  Having fun and finding out interesting things about one another is what keeps them coming.

A teacher of both ESL (English as a Second Language) and Beginning Spanish Conversation, Pieper created this program one day when she put both of her classes together.  Excited by the results, she has had her material translated into Korean and Vietnamese, with more translations in progress.  She is anxious to share her process and her material, and is available for workshops and individual consultations. (Attendees to CAHRO's 1997 Training Conference will have the opportunity to participate one of Ms. Pieper's workshops.  See CAHRO News insert for details.)  For more information on breaking down language barriers phone Ms. Pieper at (213) 937-4190, or e-mail her at jeanne@pieper.com.