The National Conflict Resolution Center finds ways to help people move forward together in spite of conflicts, insurmountable though they may sometimes appear. Polarization can sometimes be evident in communities where people of diverse backgrounds and perspectives come together. However, conflict can provide a prime opportunity for learning and, when handled skillfully, can become a powerful catalyst for growth and inspired change.

NCRC has teamed up with Live Well San Diego to host community circle dialogues throughout San Diego County. In the circles, facilitators help guide a dialogue to build trust and create a space where San Diego residents can share their perspectives and hear the perspectives of others – and go on to be agents of positive change in their communities.

From October through December 2017, 136 participants took part in a total of 10 Live Well San Diego Exchange Community Circles, in various locations and with diverse populations in San Diego. The circles lasted an average of 3 hours, and though most participants did not know each other, the immediate and lasting trust that was built created an environment where people were transformed.

“I would like to continue to build, facilitate, and support restorative community work,” said an Exchange Community Circle participant. Another participant noted, “I want to engage more in reaching out in a kind, loving way to those I don’t know.”

By participating in a Live Well San Diego Exchange Community Circle, participants grew in their ability to be an effective part of their community. At the end of the circle participants have the ability to:

• See, understand, and empathize with others’ perspectives and experiences.
• Express their perspective in a non-confrontational way.
• Collaborate with community members who are different from them, in order to find solutions that benefit all members of the community.
• Control their emotions in order to maintain their dignity and have more control of the outcome.

After taking a pre and post-training survey, participants showed an increase in self-awareness and self-control. Participants also showed an increase in their belief in the power of community problem-solving and collaboration.

This collaborative effort emphasizes the importance of cross-cultural interaction and principles of community, such as valuing each member of the community and demonstrating high standards of civility and decency toward all. With further collaboration, Live Well San Diego and NCRC can continue to move forward in increasing conflict resolution and inclusion in San Diego, with community members leading the change through deeper dialogue, understanding, and reconciliation.