This month, the Susan B. Anthony Center partnered with the University of Rochester Office of Equity and Inclusion to host the Conflict Without Contempt Workshop Series. The center hosted two sessions, one at the University of Rochester Medical Center on January 7, and one in partnership with Rush Rhees Library at the University of Rochester River Campus on January 16th. The workshops were a success! Eighteen participants engaged in the Medical Center session, and thirty-six engaged in the River Campus session.
Fear of conflict often leads to avoidance, especially where power dynamics exist. These workshops were designed to provide guidance in how to engage in open, respectful conversations that foster transparency and authentic relationships. The workshops engaged participants in interactive activities to explore conflict styles, power dynamics, and strategies for addressing conflict without contempt. Through individual reflection, partner discussions, and group sharing, participants examined their own conflict responses, analyzed how power influenced conflicts, and collaboratively considered approaches to fostering respectful and constructive dialogue.
After the workshops, 24 participants engaged in a survey. Several participants commented on the effectiveness of partnered discussions to reflect on personal conflict styles. All 24 agreed that the topics addressed in the workshop were “relevant” or “very relevant” to their work and/or personal life. These participants walked away with a changed sense of how to effectively address conflict and encourage honest interactions in relationships, whether it be in the workplace or at home.
Although these workshops have passed, there is more to come. The Conflict Without Contempt Workshop series served as a preview of an upcoming three-month Conflict Transformation at U of R series the center will hold starting in March. We hope to see familiar and new faces there as we learn together how to take on the task of effective conflict management.