In his Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech, Gore (2007) spoke about collective action to bring about major changes in the usage, protection, and management of the environment. Collective action requires communication among all, including traditionally marginalized populations such as Indigenous people, women, youths, and children. The wisdom of all is needed. Diverse viewpoints and knowledge need to mingle. However, mere coming together can result either in beneficial action or contentious debate. It is the nature of such communication and the values that guide it that are central to the outcome. This article explores the values that guide participatory communication and the contribution of local knowledge in the service of ecological sustainability and development. To do so, it describes an innovative educational program in Columbia, called the Tutorial Learning System, dedicated to developing the prerequisite capabilities. (Contains 5 footnotes.)