ACR's Public
and Intense Conflicts Committee
ACR Statement on
School Violence
The recent tragedy in Kauhajoki,
Finland at Kauhajoki School of Hospitality, as at
Northern Illinois University, Virginia Polytechnic
Institute and State University, West Nickel Mines Amish
School , Red Lake Senior High School, and, sadly, a
number of other schools, colleges, and universities in
the past, are stark reminders of the prevalence and
impact of violence in our communities. They are urgent
calls for us each to do more to prevent, reduce and
resolve conflicts which lead to violence, and to help
support and restore communities and individuals
devastated by violence. We must also examine the
conditions which make it possible for such violence to
be so frequently perpetrated, especially on our young
and vulnerable.
Conflict resolvers, educators, and
other professionals and volunteers in our communities
and educational settings play key roles in increasing
understanding and reducing prejudice — by gender, race,
ethnicity, sexual orientation, political views, and
other social groupings —which so often are central to
conflicts. Enhancing a community’s skills in conflict
resolution and dialogue has been proven to reduce
isolation and stress, which are important factors that
contribute to suicide and homicide. There are times, of
course, when, despite every attempt to provide safe
conditions and a supportive environment, tragedies
ensue. Even then, those trained in listening and
dialogue skills can help members of a bereaved and angry
community discuss their experiences constructively.
The Association for Conflict
Resolution offers its sincerest condolences and wishes
of healing to all who were injured and who lost friends
and family in recent as well as past school violence.
Our thoughts are with you as you move toward recovery
and as we all work to prevent future violence.
Resources
for local schools, campuses, and communities addressing
school violence are available on the
ACR Education Section web site.
Public and Intense Conflicts
Committee of the ACR Board of Directors
Visit the Public and Intense Committee Page:
http://www.acrnet.org/about/committees/publicandintense.htm
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