Impact in Community

Two neighbors in a transitional housing community had been fighting over loud music, late night company and cigarette smoke. Rather than seeking each other out to “talk” about the issues, they took to complaining by banging on the walls, turning up the volume and yelling to “voice” their displeasure. Meanwhile, the housing management has made it clear that, if unresolved, each tenant would be removed, effectively making them homeless again.

The neighbors met face-to-face in mediation facilitated by the Dispute Resolution Center. Both agreed that they didn’t make any effort to talk things out. Through the mediation process, the issues were better defined allowing the neighbors to discuss their individual needs. Because they learned new information about each other, they were able to reach an agreement that satisfied both parties. They learned how to be civil and considerate with each other.

Impact in Schools

An incident happened at a local school involving a group of students and the lunchroom staff person – there was “intentional mess” and the “kid’s laughing” at the mess. The staff person yelled at the students. A parent was concerned about her/his child’s safety and called the police. The police report was submitted to the Prosecutor’s Office, and then referred to DRC for services. A circle occured with the parent, student and staff person.

After the circle, parent commented, “When someone harmed my child, I was hurt, angry, afraid, and felt alone. The prospect of court proceedings and retaliation were daunting. [DRC staff] reached out at my lowest point. The circle brought us into direct, safe contact with the person who harmed... the start of enormous relief and healing. The student got to ask "why" and taught us bravery and compassion in response. I did not expect or believe we could reach such forgiveness, empathy and understanding with one another.”

Impact in Businesses

A small local business was experiencing workplace conflict among the employees and between management and employees. The conflict had been going on for several months, and even as management made small organizational changes, nothing seemed to satisfy the staff. Within months, services were compromised, frequent clients began to complain and routine processes were coming undone.

The managing staff decided that traditional disciplinary tactics would not be helpful. Instead they decided to try something new – use a restorative circle to create a safe space for all staff to talk and listen to each other. After careful planning, everyone was ready to be in a restorative circle. All 30 staff members devoted a full day to establishing their values, reconnecting to the organization’s mission.

The discussions were based on speaking openly and honestly, listening to each other’s concerns, acknowledging how each were being impacted by the changes and by the negative behaviors, taking responsibility for their role in the problems, and very importantly, determining how they would work together to make things right and improve the working environment. The session ended with written agreements on how to move forward., with the day ending in a team building activity to bring levity to the space after a long and hard conversation.

The DRC offers the restorative service of Peacemaking to community members and organizations. This approach to problem solving very often leads to solutions to problems. And just a important, Peacemaking reminds us of the importance of relationships, mutual respect and taking responsibility.

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By DISPUTE RESOLUTION CENTERS OF MICHIGAN INC

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