Difference and ethics on the research process with public conversations groups

Abstract

The aim of this study is to analyze 10 dialogue facilitation meetings on the subject of the rights to LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) in the states of Paraná and Minas Gerais, Brazil, following the Public Conversations Project (PCP), Boston, USA. 50 people attended the meetings, LGBT, LGBT family members, pastors, priests, LGBT activists, coordinators of religious groups, health professionals, educators, police and politicians. Social constructionist discourse supported the analysis of the meetings, the post-group discussions and feedback forms from participants about their participation in the meetings. Discussion highlighted: 1) the implications of valuing difference as ethical and epistemological commitment to conduct the PCP, 2) the need for reflection on the part of the facilitators with respect to which differences they can/should be committed with, and 3) the questioning of which intended and achieved effects give direction to the commitment of the facilitators with the difference in the group.