Conflict Resolution Lab, October 22, 2026

Thursday, October 22, 2026

Center Workbench Topic - Apology & Forgiveness in Conflict Resolution

Apology and forgiveness are powerful tools that often go underused in conflict resolution work — many practitioners overlook how effective a well-timed, genuine apology or act of forgiveness can be in shifting a conflict toward real repair. Part of why these tools go underused is that they ask something real of us: apologizing and forgiving can be difficult, vulnerable acts, and people's reasons for offering either one vary more than we tend to assume — sometimes it's about admitting fault, but just as often it's about valuing the relationship over being right, making amends, or answering to a faith or set of values larger than the conflict itself. In this Conflict Lab, participants will explore that difficulty and range of motivation, building comfort with the vulnerability these tools require while learning when to bring them into their practice and when they may hinder rather than help. NMC’s Susan Parlane will lead this workbench topic.

Test, Refine and Strengthen how you guide others through conflicts.

Bring a real challenge, a new idea, or just your curiosity—we’ll work it together in a space that’s thoughtful, supportive, and grounded in real practice. Each Lab is a chance to slow down, try new approaches, and learn alongside others who care deeply about this work. Come as you are, and leave sharper, more confident, and better equipped for the work ahead.

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Objectives:

• Promote learning

• Have Fun and build A-Ha Moments

• Bring community together

• Create networking opportunities

• Create something that is reproducible and self-sustaining

• Variety of facilitators make it lively and fresh