CULTIVATING UNDERSTANDING AND RESPECT WITH THE LANGUAGE OF PEACE

Group members along with other community members participated in two workshops to learn the process of NonViolent Communication that encourages us to focus on what we and others are observing, how and why we are each feeling as we do, what our underlying needs are, and what each of us would like to have happen. The children selected conflicts they have experienced in their own lives to act out and resolve using this new language. Dr. Marshall Rosenberg was originally inspired to develop this model of nonviolent communication by his own experiences with racial and religious discrimination in 1943. Also known as “Compassionate Communication,” NVC is now taught and practiced in 40 countries. Worldwide, nonviolent communication “serves as a valuable resource for communities facing violent conflicts and severe ethnic, religious, or political tensions.” Our group plans to continue to practice and teach nonviolent communication in our homes and group meetings, on the playground, and at community outreach events. This project was funded by a “Promoting Unity in the Community” grant from the City of Scottsdale’s Office of Diversity and Dialogue. Many thanks also goes to the New Vision Center for Spiritual Growth who provided the location for the workshops.