Recognizing October 20, 2005 as Conflict Resolution Day.

WHEREAS, Conflict resolution encompasses mediation, arbitration, conciliation, and other formal and informal responses to conflict; and

WHEREAS, Conflict resolution processes empower individuals, organizations, and families to foster communication and devise solutions that are tailored to their particular needs and interests; and

WHEREAS, Conflict resolution is being taught and practiced in many school systems throughout the country, not only as a way of solving individual disputes, but also as a means toward a more peaceful society; and

WHEREAS, Community-based programs are fairly and equitably resolving neighborhood and community conflicts, thereby strengthening community relationships; and

WHEREAS, Collaborative responses to conflicts are being used by administrative agencies, businesses, and courts to effectively and efficiently resolve disputes; and

WHEREAS, Professional associations of conflict resolvers are promoting the peaceful and creative resolution of disputes; now therefore

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That October 20, 2005 be recognized as Conflict Resolution Day; and

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Cheryl Cutrona as Executive Director of the Good Shepherd Mediation Program, as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body.

End