Why "Open Dialog Coalition"? Here are some definition and context for the phrase:
http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dialog
Main Entry: 1di·a·logue
Variant(s): also di·a·log \ˈdī-ə-ˌlȯg, -ˌläg\
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English dialoge, from Anglo-French dialogue, from Latin dialogus, from Greek dialogos, from dialegesthai to converse, from dia- + legein to speak — more at legend
Date: 13th century
1 : a written composition in which two or more characters are represented as conversing 2 a : a conversation between two or more persons; also : a similar exchange between a person and something else (as a computer) b : an exchange of ideas and opinions <organized a series of dialogues on human rights> c : a discussion between representatives of parties to a conflict that is aimed at resolution <a constructive dialogue between loggers and environmentalists> 3 : the conversational element of literary or dramatic composition <very little dialogue in this film> 4 : a musical composition for two or more parts suggestive of a conversation
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http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dialog
Dialogue, From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Dialogue (sometimes spelled dialog in North American English[1]) is a literary form, the most notable examples of which in Western literature are the dialogues of Plato.
Its chief historical origins as narrative, philosophical or didactic device are to be found in classical Greek and Indian literature, in particular in the ancient art of rhetoric.
Its everyday basis and counterpart is a conversational exchange between two or more people."
The dictionary definition of the word "coalition", aptly describes the relationship of the participants as allied yet still distinct. This is not a consensus group or a merger, rather it is a gathering of different groups with a common cause - to foster dialog that is open about this important policy matter.
http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/coalition
Main Entry: co·a·li·tion
Pronunciation: \ˌkō-ə-ˈli-shən\
Function: noun
Etymology: French, from Latin coalescere
Date: 1604
1 a : the act of coalescing : union b : a body formed by the coalescing of originally distinct elements : combination
2 : a temporary alliance of distinct parties, persons, or states for joint action
The Open Dialog Coalition is just as the name describes, and it is the intent of it's members and participants to foster a dialog in which all of the views can have a hearing, be discussed, considered and form part of the decision making process that will occur.
