Where do you stand?


We all have different perspectives on issues that matter to us, based on our backgrounds and experiences. Being open to learning the stories and perspectives of others can help us broaden our understanding and build relationships. This activity can be used to prompt meaningful conversation about any complex human issue.

Activity Time: 15 min - 60 min
pan_tool
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Activity steps
  1. Prepare a space in a room or outdoor area large enough to mingle freely. Use masking tape or some other kind of marking tool to create a kind of “ruler” on the floor or ground,  with one end representing Agree and the other Disagree, and marks in between for degrees. The middle section represents ‘not sure or no fixed opinion.’
  2. Gather a collection of statements to be read aloud, so participants can take a “stand” on their view.
    • Examples of statements:
      • People should avoid using cannabis until they are 25 or older.
      • Most young people who use cannabis do it for the fun of it.
      • People who smoke should not leave their butts/roaches on the ground.
      • The legal age for using cannabis should be lower.
      • A small amount of cannabis isn’t harmful.
      • It is rude to smoke tobacco or cannabis around people who don’t smoke.
      • There’s no significant difference between cannabis and alcohol.
      • The government should erase the criminal records of people charged with cannabis possession before legalization.
      • We must address the racism that still exists in the criminal justice system around drugs.
      • If someone I knew were having problems with cannabis, I’d reach out.
      • I’m not sure how to help a person with a cannabis use problem. 
  3. Explain that you’ll be reading aloud statements that they must think about and then take a stand where they see themselves on the line
  4. Remind participants that the point is to make a decision and be curious about others
  5. Read each statement aloud and give participants time to decide where they want to stand
  6. Debrief after each statement, or wait until the end to gather and discuss the experience
  7. Ask participants to identify one new thing they learned from others or changed their mind about.   
Handout