At the heart of our work is how we show up – with each other, with those we serve, and within ourselves. These guiding principles reflect our deep commitment to the values that shape the understanding-based approach to conflict: respect, connection, and clarity.
Our Mission
To train professionals and community members in the skills and self-awareness needed to bring understanding to conflict-driven conversations.
Our Vision
That people in conflict engage in authentic conversations that build understanding between them.
Our Values
We work with each other with:
- Intentionality
- Taking the time that is needed
- Consent, not coercion
- Parties’ ownership of dispute
- Transparency in the process
We show up to this work with:
- Empathy
- Compassion and kindness to self and others
- Authenticity
- Vulnerability
- Understanding
We are mindful of:
- Inclusion
- Access to understanding-based conflict resolution for everyone
- Justice – racial, social, political
- Awareness of bias, privilege, judgments, conditioning
We create:
- Quality, well-constructed trainings
- Effective and impactful experiences
- Ongoing learning for our community
This is how we practice – intentionally, compassionately, and with a belief in each person’s capacity to engage meaningfully in conflict. These values are not just ideas; they are the foundation for creating real, enduring change.
The Center for Understanding in Conflict is committed to creating an inclusive, respectful, and accessible environment for all participants, staff, faculty, volunteers, and community members.
CUC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, marital or family status, veteran status, socioeconomic status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
We are committed to ensuring that our programs, services, employment practices, and organizational activities reflect our values of dignity, understanding, equity, and respect. Discrimination, harassment, or exclusion that is inconsistent with these principles is not tolerated.