The Art of Dialogue: Restorative Conversations & Circles

Friday, Aug 1: 10-4 & Sat., Aug 2: 10-6

Location: Savoy Denver Flex Studio

Come out and practice the art of dialogue with Rachael K Sharp and Bianca Mikahn! How do we stay in a conversation when it gets heated? How do we broach difficult conversations, or decide if we need mediation? Interested in less in-fighting and more collaboration? Want to better support colleagues and communities navigating conflict and differences? And do it all while honoring everyone’s humanity, being transparent about power dynamics, and standing on equity?

Conflict is inevitable, harm is not. This two part series will start by considering the origins of Restorative and Transformative Justice, and engaging with some foundational tools and practices for honest empathic communication. And then we will practice, practice, practice! Using theatre activities and somatic abolition we will try out the tools and consider them from the different roles we may play in conflict.

Day 2 will consider systems development and sustainability and then hone in on facilitation in different settings, drawn from the group and relevant case studies. Through semi-simulated circles, we will deepen our embodied practice toward real time application.

Attend both days, or either day independently.

This workshop will be responsive to the room and trauma informed. Designed for formal and informal facilitators, mediators, bridge builders, neighbors, social and cultural workers, organizers, abolitionists, and anyone who wants build skills for navigating conflict.