Within the contexts of our universities and workplace settings, it is critical to implement ways of infusing diversity, equity, inclusion and justice as we interact with our colleagues in order to build more collegial and supportive communities. Ideally this can increase effectiveness, communication, and overall success. However, in reality it is often challenging and difficult to carry out. Conflict may arise due to differences in our diverse backgrounds, ethical/moral principles, cultural values, political affiliation, etc. Differences often get unintentionally exasperated, thus creating borders and boundaries that divide us. Minor disagreements between individuals and couples can escalate into physical altercations, verbal aggression, and psychological abuse. Tension and conflict between groups can lead to marginalization, oppression, and injustice. In this workshop participants will be faced with a challenging task. We will take time to reflect on feelings and emotions experienced during the exercise. After introducing participants to a brief history and background of mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques, we will lead the group in practicing several mindfulness techniques. We will then observe the impact of mindfulness in fostering shared understanding, perspective taking, and communication to move beyond the illusion of the borders and boundaries we create for ourselves.
