The Inclusivity Train

1. The organizing team makes a prior selection of images that allude to the “hot topics” that will most likely be left unsaid during the gathering of the group and “invisible stakeholders” (human and non-human) who will not be in the room.
2. Images are arranged in the pattern of a train track, preferably in a side room or outdoor space.
3. Participants are invited to walk along the “tracks”, taking time to reflect and choose one or more pictures that represent something or someone they feel should be included and may have been left outside the conversation thus far.
4. Participants are then invited to gather in small groups of 3-5 people or (alternately) to participate in a “fish-bowl” (see references below for fishbowl format).
5. The time and format of the group discussions or the rules of the fishbowl are explained and the host/facilitator choses an image of their own to demonstrate how to give voice to the given topic or perspective.
6. In both formats, everyone shares their images with the group and explains why it has been chosen and which aspects or insights might be included in future engagements or discussions. If appropriate, people can suggest specific ways that new insights and perspectives might be included or addressed in the future.
7. (Optional) Ask everyone to write a few words or sentences on the back explaining why their image feels important and then collect the images (with short explanation).
8. The anonymous insights that emerge can be reflected back to the group through a report or email or presentation at a later time.

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