Tania Israel from UC Santa Barbara’s Gevirtz Graduate School of Education delivered one of the keynote addresses at the 2021 Annual Convention of the Texas Psychological Association on November 11. Israel gave the talk “If You’re Not Listening, You’re Not Paying Attention: Dialogue as a Tool for Social Justice Advocacy.”
“If you’re not outraged, you’re not paying attention” is a rallying cry in social justice circles. Indeed, there is plenty to be outraged about, however, outrage has its limitations, and prolonged outrage takes a toll on health. Science points to listening as an effective tool for collaboration, persuasion, and organizing. In her presentation, Dr. Israel harnessed psychological theory and research to offer a blueprint for dialogue-based social justice advocacy.
The Texas Psychological Association is the professional organization for psychologists in the state. Founded in 1947, TPA’s mission is to represent and enhance the profession of psychology in Texas, while promoting human health and welfare through education, science, and practice.
Dr. Tania Israel is a professor in the Department of Counseling, Clinical and School Psychology at UCSB who has provided leadership in the Santa Barbara community and beyond for decades. U.S. Congressman Salud Carbajal, who represents California’s 24th District, chose Israel as one of the 2019 Congressional Women of the Year. Israel leads dialogue skill-building workshops to help people connect across political differences and teaches about helping skills, leadership, and community collaboration. She has also facilitated educational programs and difficult dialogues on a range of topics, including abortion, law enforcement, religion, and sexual orientation. She is author of the award-winning Beyond Your Bubble: How to Connect Across the Political Divide, Skills and Strategies for Conversations That Work (APA 2020).