The Makah Indian Whaling Controversy: Conflict Resolution in the Making
Schedule: Thursday, July 10, 2008, 1:30-9:00 p.m.; Class sessions 1:30-3:30 p.m., 4:15-5:45 p.m., 7:00-9:00 p.m.; Ample breaks, restaurant on site
Location: Trilogy at Redmond Ridge, Redmond (see maps)
Reg. # 96939

Course Description

The many complex issues surrounding the Makah Indian Whaling Controversy provide an opportunity for discussion and debate regarding community decision-making during an on-going societal issue. Class members will assume roles as members of the Makah Tribe during the mid-1990s, when the tribe wrestled with the question of whether or not to resume hunting and killing grey whales, a traditional practice that had been discontinued early in the 20th century. The issues surrounding the pros and cons of the resumption of whaling will be debated in two afternoon sessions and will culminate with a simulation of a full tribal council meeting in the evening. The tribe's final decision during the evening session will be analyzed and debriefed. Class members will obtain an introduction to some basic conflict resolution techniques: conflict styles; negotiation methods; positions and interests; and active listening that can be applied in community or work life. Readings about conflict resolution and the case will be distributed prior to class.

Instructors

Lynne Iglitzin, Ph.D.
Former Professor, Political Science, University of Washington
Iglitzin, a former professor of political science at the University of Washington, taught courses in women's studies, American politics and political theory. For the past 10 years, Iglitzin has served as a mediator with the Dispute Resolution Center of King County, and has specialized in small claims court mediations.

Patti Dudley
Director, Dispute Resolution Center of King County
Dudley, director of the Dispute Resolution Center of King County, has more than 15 years of senior-level management experience in nonprofit, social service organizations and holds a degree in applied behavioral science from the Leadership Institute of Seattle (LIOS). The Dispute Resolution Center is a nonprofit community-based agency that helps people and groups resolve conflicts peacefully.