[Dialogue] Questions about the "Turn to the World"

[R Williams]

Dear Colleagues,
 
In 1972 the Kemper Insurance Co. gave the Ecumenical Institute its 8-story office building at 4750 N. Sheridan Rd. in Chicago.  In and around that year the Institute of Cultural Affairs was incorporated and EI/ICA moved its headquarters from its "seminary campus" on the west side to its "insurance building" on north side.  Subsequently we drew a circle around the wedge blade and announced we were making a "turn to the world."
 
Here are some questions regarding "the turn:"
	1. What was going on in the world and internally with EI/O:E that precipitated the "Turn to the World?"
	2. How did "the turn" affect our story about who we were and what we were doing? (For example, what did we understand we were turning to and what were we turning from?)
	3. What were the strategic and practical implications at that time?
	4. What are the implications today for ICAs around the world?
The primary reason for asking these questions is, the Board of Directors of ICA-USA, when it meets in Chicago each November, dialogues on the issue of the long-term strategic direction and approach of the organization.  This piece of our history could have relevance for that dialogue this November.
 
Please don't be restricted by the questions.  Any remembrances and insights that you are willing to share will be useful and most appreciated.
 
Thank you,
Randy Williams
Acting Chair, ICA-USA Board of Directors
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