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Civil Rights News | Sept. 16, 2024

Conflict, Communication, and Collaboration: Celebrating Conflict Resolution Day

By SCPO Steven Fischer, Region 3, Zone 12

Conflict Resolution Day, celebrated every year on the third Thursday of October, is all about learning how to handle conflicts in a way that brings people together instead of driving them apart. This year, Conflict Resolution Day falls on October 17th. For the Coast Guard workforce, knowing how to resolve conflicts peacefully is the key to keeping working relationships strong and healthy. 
 
Established in 2005 by the Association for Conflict Resolution (ACR), this day promotes awareness about the value of alternative dispute resolution (ADR), which is an official, but less formal method to resolve workplace disputes. The Coast Guard uses methods like:  

Mediation - where a neutral person helps both sides reach a binding settlement agreement.  

Facilitation - where an impartial person helps disputing parties work through a productive conversation and develop solutions without a binding settlement. 

Shuttle Diplomacy - where a third-party neutral talks directly to both sides separately in helping develop a solution. 
 
The Coast Guard offers an ADR program that provides an efficient and effective way for the workforce to resolve conflicts at the lowest level, helping to maintain a positive and cooperative work environment. Civil Rights Service Providers (CRSPs) play an important role in this conflict resolution as they can help disputing parties reach a mutually satisfactory outcome. CRSPs can contribute to conflict resolution in several ways: 

1) Mediation: As mediators, CRSPs can help disputing parties talk through their issues, making sure everyone is heard and helping them find a solution that works for both sides. 
 
2) Training: Through Civil Rights Awareness training and other initiatives, CRSPs teach conflict resolution skills to ensure the workforce is equipped to handle disputes or disagreements effectively. 
 
3) Support: CRSPs can provide guidance to units and help them navigate the process of resolving disputes quickly and effectively to put focus back on the mission. 

When workplace conflicts are left unresolved, the negative outcomes can damage team morale and impact mission success. Teamwork is crucial in the Coast Guard, so it’s important to address any conflict early and effectively. Coast Guard CRSPs, along with the ADR Program, play a key role in resolving conflicts and ensuring the fair treatment for all workforce members.  
 
Learn more about the Coast Guard's ADR program.