On a beautiful evening In October, at a time of uncertainty and conflict, our extended community gathered at the Wassmuth Center for Human Rights and Anne Frank Memorial in Boise to explore peace building with Dr. John Paul Lederach.
Dr. Lederach is a Senior Fellow at Humanities United and Professor Emeritus of International Peace Building at the Kroc Institute for Peace Studies at the University of Notre Dame. He is an internationally recognized sociologist and author who is known for his pioneering work in the field of conflict transformation, reconciliation and international peace building. He has worked for decades in war-torn areas around the globe, and his recent work focuses on the deep divisions and polarization in our country.
John Paul’s experience highlights the potential for everyday people to shift the trajectory toward compassion and peace. He shared meaningful stories about his work with communities worldwide as well insights and strategies that can be applied to current challenges in our community. After John Paul’s presentation, participants engaged in small group discussions to consider a few questions:
Within the context of your life and work, what perspectives were most surprising, interesting and/or relevant to you?
What questions are you struggling with as you consider how to move forward?
We enjoyed an open dialogue and many participants shared that this opportunity for connection and conversation was both nourishing and inspiring.
We will continue the conversation at a Root Down Reach Out retreat conference in Boise on April 29th and 30th of 2025. The Compassionate Communities Healthcare Movement will partner with the Idaho Physician Well Being Action Collaborative and several other local relationship focused organizations to bring this experience to our extended community.We would love to welcome you! For more details, please click here.
Please enjoy this video of our conversation with John Paul
Reflections shared by one of the participants
About Dr. Lederach: www.johnpaullederach.com / “Who Do You Know?”