The 4th Annual International Conference on “Engaging The Other:” The Power of Compassion is taking place November 12-15 in San Mateo, California (outside San Francisco), and we encourage all NCDDers interested in conflict resolution and intergroup relations to attend! NCDD is co-sponsoring this event with the Common Bond Institute and the International Humanistic Psychology Association, and registration will be discounted for NCDD members ($290 rather than $350 for the early rate).

Engaging The Other (ETO) is an innovative interdisciplinary conference examining concepts of “The Other” from a universal, cross-cultural perspective to promote wider public dialogue about concepts of “Us and Them.”

Now is the time to submit your proposal for a concurrent session (workshop), and/or to sign up as a dialogue group facilitator. Participation in either role saves you 50% on the regular registration rate!

The 3 day ETO Program schedule is composed of concurrent sessions, plenary panels, facilitated topical dialogue groups, and intentional community experiences, as well as evening social/cultural events to relax and recreate with one another. Presentations are multidisciplinary and focus on issues related to concepts and experiences of The Other, including dynamics of identity, fear-based belief systems, negative stereotypes, prejudice, polarization, and forming enemy images.

1) Concurrent Workshops and Roundtables (Typically 80-90 minutes in length):
Session format should engage participants as both learners and teachers – learning from prepared material while also bringing participants’ own wisdom to the table. Proposals are sought for workshops and roundtables that offer skills training, active learning, interaction, and dynamic dialogue. Download the proposal form now. Proposals are due July 1st.

2) Dialogue Group Facilitation (Typically 75-90 minutes in length):
Attendees will participate in facilitated dialogue groups once or twice daily. The groups will process the conference experience, explore issues not raised in the prepared program, brainstorm practical applications, and network for important collaboration building beyond the conference. Download the dialogue facilitator form now.

Since we are co-creating a process that builds over the days of the conference toward strategies, collaboration, and outcomes meant to be applied beyond the conference, all presenters are encouraged to attend the full conference if possible.

Email conference director Steve Olweean at if you have questions about the event, or visit the conference website at www.cbiworld.org/Pages/Conferences_ETO.htm.