Conflict Resolution Day

Conflict Resolution Day was conceived in 2005 by the ACR (Association for Conflict Resolution is a professional organization enhancing the practice and public understanding of conflict resolution) to:

- Promote awareness of mediation, arbitration, conciliation and other creative, peaceful means of resolving conflict; 

- Promote the use of conflict resolution in schools, families, businesses, communities, governments and the legal system; 

- Recognize the significant contributions of (peaceful) conflict resolvers; and 

- Obtain national synergy by having celebrations happen across the country and around the world on the same day.

In 2005, in order to increase public awareness about conflict resolution and its many benefits, ACR’s 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. This year the event will be on October 20, 2011.

*Retrieved from www.acrnet.org - official website of the Association of Conflict Resolution