A group of University students not afraid to discuss controversial issues on campus decided to form an group called Sustained Dialogue.

“We will cover topics like sexuality, race, gender, socioeconomic issues and all the difficult things that are hard to talk about,” said Cynthia Polk-Johnson, director of Multicultural Services and Programs.

The student-run organization will provide volunteers with resources to address campus concerns through a five-step process.

“First, we see what students want to talk about,” said Morgan Fleming, a senior from Suwanee. “Then, we hold a moderated session so people can let their grievances out, which can be really emotionally intense.”

“Next, we recognize these problems, decide the main ones on which to focus and then come up with solutions. We put them in the hands of people who can realize them.”

Sustained Dialogue focuses on issues of communication, not discrimination, involving the University, Fleming said.

The nationwide program, also in high schools, consists of a small Initiator Team, dialogue moderators, dialogue groups, an executive board and administrative support.

Sustained Dialogue is about looking at what creates a campus climate, not placing blame, said Leslie Atchley, coordinator of Student Affairs.

“You have to look at yourself first,” Atchley said. “Take a hard look at yourself . at the prejudices that you have. It’s a challenging experience but the group is here for a safe place. You can listen to others’ experiences and get support. Then you can move toward action.”

Sustained Dialogue inspired Fleming to start a similar organization to welcome and include a broad group of students.

“I want to get students motivated,” Fleming said. “A lot of organizations deal with only their particular group. I’m working on getting my own student organization called UGA Ally that provides support, advocacy and social justice for everyone.”