CONFLICT RESOLUTION DAY

OCTOBER 16, 2014

SAMPLE PROCLAMATION

Conflict Resolution Day is an international celebration held annually on the third Thursday in October.

On this day, dispute resolution processes being used locally, provincially, nationally and internationally are highlighted.

Conflict resolution is about using the various dispute resolution services that are available to find alternative, creative solutions to resolve disputes.

On behalf of (city, town, etc.) Council and the citizens of , I hereby recognize October 16, 2014 as:

“CONFLICT RESOLUTION DAY”

Signed,

Conflict Resolution Day 2014

Options for Albertans

Overview

Conflict Resolution Day is an international celebration held annually on the third Thursday in October. The date for Conflict Resolution Day 2014 is October 16. The Alberta theme for this year is Identity in Conflict Resolution – Values and Social / Cultural Influences on Conflict.

Across Alberta there are a number of government and community based organizations working together to provide dynamic sessions where you can learn more about this year’s theme and gain further information on the dispute resolution services in your area.

This is an initiative started by the Alberta Government Dispute Resolution Network and a number of community based organizations 9 years ago and it continues to gain momentum. We hope you find it helpful and informative!

History

In 2005, in order to increase public awareness about conflict resolution and its many benefits, Association for Conflict Resolution’s (ACR) Board of Directors adopted a resolution designating October 20, 2005 as Conflict Resolution Day. ACR coordinated its efforts with other conflict resolution organizations and reached out to local, state and international groups to build interest in holding local celebrations in conjunction with Conflict Resolution Day. Events were held in Canada, Portugal, and 22 U.S. states. Also in the United States, a number of counties, cities and states adopted proclamations designating day- or week-long conflict resolution celebrations.

In March 2006, ACR’s Board of Directors adopted a resolution designating the third Thursday in October as Conflict Resolution Day. Going forward, Conflict Resolution Day will always be held on the third Thursday of October. In 2006, World Mediation Forum (WMF) joined ACR in co-sponsoring Conflict Resolution Day.

For more information please check out these websites:

Alberta Events: www.drn.alberta.ca

International Events: www.ACRnet.org/crday