What is Social Justice Mediation?

Social Justice Mediation aims to limit bias and address power dynamics in conflict mediation. As such, Social Justice Mediation “emphasizes the important role our identities play in conflict. Our cultural lens influences the dynamic of the conflict—whether overtly or indirectly” (Nagai-Rothe, 2010). Mediators pay particular attention to how one’s social identities (e.g., race, ethnicity, gender/gender identity, sexual orientation, class, religion, ability) may impact the conflict and encourage participants to explore these dynamics through telling their stories.

Nagai-Rothe, E. (2010, July). Challenging neutrality, examining privilege and encouraging practitioner self-reflexivity: A social justice approach to ADR. Retrieved from http://www.mediate.com/articles/NagaiRotheE1.cfm.

How can I request Social Justice Mediation or refer a student for mediation?

If you or a student you know would benefit from social justice mediation, you should complete the Social Justice Mediation Referral Form. Please note that mediation through the Center for Student Conduct is only available to UVM students.

How does Social Justice Mediation work? What should I expect?

A mediator will contact you to determine a date and time to meet. During this meeting, you will meet one-on-one to discuss your concerns and explore options for responding to the conflict. The mediator will also contact the other student involved in the conflict to have a similar one-on-one meeting.

During the mediation, all persons will have the opportunity to share their own story and concerns. The mediator will then share each student’s story to the other student individually. The mediator will then explore responses, options, and possible plans with each student individually. When possible, the participants will create an agreed-upon plan of action at end of the mediation.

Are there other options besides Social Justice Mediation?

Please consider our additional conflict intervention options.