Spotlight on Conflict Resolution

Conflict is an inevitable part of our daily lives. There can be conflict in the workplace, at home, with a stranger, even more common, internal conflict. It is important to learn how to positively interact with conflict. The Association for Conflict Resolution (ACR) is a professional organization enhancing the practice and public understanding of conflict resolution. ACR strives to educate people about the different methods of conflict resolution, as well as promote the quality of these methods. ACR celebrates differences and encourages equal opportunities for all. They are constantly taking steps to eliminate injustices in access to and in the process of alternative dispute resolution.

Here at M E Clarke Consulting, we are excited to spotlight the Association for Conflict Resolution’s Fourteenth Annual Conference: Many Notes One Symphony on October 8-11, 2014 in Cincinnati, Ohio. This four-day event will be filled with workshops, seminars and training. Meghan will be co-presenting two sessions including one on the key lessons derived from the Northern Ireland Peace Process. The session will highlight the goal of reconciliation, which is achieved through truth, justice, mercy, and peace. In order to achieve reconciliation, it is important to look at social interactions both past and future. It is also necessary to evaluate all sides of a conflict, as everyone plays a role in one way or another. Balancing amnesty and accountability, which can be achieved by showing the intentions of both sides of the conflict, can restore the moral image of the perpetrator, as well as empower the victim. Read more about these processes in Lessons from the Northern Ireland Peace Process.

Meghan will also be co-facilitating a session on the importance of self-care. The idea is to inspire peacemakers to take the necessary time to care for themselves, which can unfortunately be easily forgotten. Secondary trauma can harmfully impact those who witness conflict on a regular basis. The practice will feature examples and inspirational quotes designed for self-care. Our hypothesis is summarized in the following statement, “It took me a long time to learn that doing what nourished my spirit was not selfish, but essential.” -Kaylan Pickford, Always a Woman

We are also looking forward to October 16th– International Conflict Resolution Day! This day will help bring awareness to conflict resolution and the many peaceful methods of achieving it. The ACR has outlined ways to prepare for and participate in Conflict Resolution Day. M E Clarke Consulting will be celebrating all week long, posting tips and practices to help you resolve conflict. Be sure to mark your calendar for all of these great events in October and stay connected to receive our tricks of the trade.