Following a recent community meeting about First Amendment rights, it became clear that people across the Four Corners share a desire to keep our communities safe, respectful, and grounded in our shared values – especially during times of heightened tension.
That is why PIRAC – Proponents of Immigrant Rights in Archuleta County – is sponsoring a free, virtual, community-wide de-escalation training open to everyone. Though we may disagree deeply on issues, we agree that violence, harassment and fear should never define our public spaces.
The training, Conflict De-Escalation in Protest Spaces, will take place March 18 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., virtually and at no cost. The session is led by Right To Be, a nationally respected organization that teaches effective tools for de-escalating conflict before it turns into harm.
Participants will learn how to recognize early warning signs of conflict; assess when – and when not – to intervene, with safety as the top priority; apply the Observe, Breathe, Connect framework to reduce tension in real time; and respond to harassment or hostility in ways that protect everyone’s dignity.
These skills strengthen not only community and protest spaces but everyday interactions across the Four Corners. In this moment, choosing preparation over fear and skills over escalation is one way we can all do our part to keep everyone safe.
Register at https://bit.ly/46TSv6c.
Judy Patton
Pagosa Springs
