Community Mediation
One of the early applications of mediation was in promoting community peace. Police who are called about noisy parties or wayward pets may refer the neighbors to mediation. Neighbors who do not get along well, but who would like to, may attend mediation as a way to open lines of communication. On a bigger scale, mediation can address concerns citizens have with police departments, transportation agencies, or across neighborhoods. In one example, community members from a specific racial group felt targeted by police, and a critical incident resulting in the death of a community member exacerbated an already vol atile situation. Mediators held community meetings to help parties air concerns and work together to create solutions. Within many cities, community mediation programs are avail able. Other types of mediation specialists work with faith congregations who are in conflict over management approach, personnel, or doctrinal issues.
Tribal councils perhaps were the original large-group conflict resolution system. For example, Navajo peoples may create a forum for hearing concerns and helping members resolve issues that may affect the public good. In discus sion circles, issues may be brought to tribal elders or community leaders and addressed communally among the troubled participants, family members, workmates, or those affected by the conflict
