Manitoba Talks is a public dialogue initiative presented by CBC Manitoba that invites Manitobans to engage in respectful, one-on-one conversations with someone whose views differ from their own.
A Province-Wide Invitation to One-on-One Conversations Across Difference
In an effort to strengthen respectful dialogue across differences, CBC Manitoba has launched Manitoba Talks, a new public engagement initiative designed to connect Manitobans in meaningful, one-on-one conversations with someone whose views differ from their own.
At a time when polarization can feel amplified by algorithms and echo chambers, Manitoba Talks aims to create intentional space for listening rather than debating. The project is not about persuading or changing minds. Instead, it invites participants to engage with curiosity and empathy — deepening understanding through respectful, structured dialogue.
How It Works
Participants begin by answering a short series of “yes or no” questions on some of today’s most divisive topics. Using this information, organizers match individuals with someone whose responses differ most significantly from their own. The goal is to pair participants who may not otherwise encounter one another’s perspectives in everyday life.
Once matched, participants coordinate either a virtual meeting or an in-person conversation in a public setting, such as a café. CBC Manitoba will also provide conversation space at Fort Whyte Alive for those who prefer a hosted environment.
The event will take place on Saturday, March 14, 2026, with registration closing on Sunday, March 8, 2026.
A Global Model, Now in Manitoba
Manitoba Talks is inspired by the internationally recognized My Country Talks model, first launched by ZEIT Online in 2017. Since then, the model has been adopted in more than 100 countries, engaging over 200,000 participants in facilitated cross-perspective conversations. This marks the first time the initiative has been introduced in Canada.
To help participants understand the format, CBC Manitoba has released a short video explainer outlining how the process works, along with an example conversation between two Manitobans discussing gender and sexuality — demonstrating the tone and spirit the initiative hopes to foster.
An Invitation to the Arts and Community Sectors
Because the project relies on broad participation from people across the province — and across the political and social spectrum — CBC Manitoba is encouraging community organizations, including those in the arts and cultural sectors, to help share the initiative within their networks.
In creative communities especially, dialogue across difference can inform storytelling, programming, and participatory engagement practices. By stepping outside of familiar circles, participants may gain new insights that strengthen both civic discourse and community resilience.
For more information or to register, Manitobans can visit: www.cbc.ca/mbtalks
As Manitoba navigates complex and sometimes divisive issues, Manitoba Talks offers a simple yet powerful premise: that conversation itself — grounded in respect — can be a starting point for greater understanding.
If you have any questions about the project, please don’t hesitate to reach out to CBC Manitoba at manitobatalks@cbc.ca. We encourage everyone to check this great new program!
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