Cultural Mediation

This process, developed by The Diversity Collaborative following a lengthy research process in the Republic of South Africa, builds on standard mediation practices. This judgment-free process helps individual employees and teams - in conflict over cultural issues - learn how work behaviors tend to improve or decrease individual incentives to work together effectively and efficiently.

First published in the international newsletter Diversity at Work, the concept was later published in Dispute Resolution Journal, August-October, 2001 (© 2001 by American Arbitration Association Inc.).  The Dispute Resolution Journal article, written by Lonnie Lusardo and Dr. Donna M. Stringer, the Cultural Mediation process is outlined in a comprehensive five-step overview including the following:

Through the use of uninterrupted time for all parties to speak freely, this process has shown remarkable success in helping individuals reach an understanding of cultural differences so that conflicts may be resolved over time.  Rules and guidelines are established by the individuals (disputants), with time allowed for each individual to meet (caucus) alone with the mediator.

In some situations, two mediators are recommended.  In such circumstances, based on the complexity or severity of the dispute, co-mediators are more likely to reflect the cultural differences of each disputant and guide the dialogue to a more satisfactory close.

For more information on Cultural Mediation, contact Lonnie Lusardo at 206-325-4595 or at info@diversitycollaborative.com.