Navigating Hard Conversations with Empathy Session 1

Join us to explore how empathy can be used effectively in a time when conversations can quickly become divisive or emotionally charged. Empathy circles offer a structured and supportive way to listen, speak, and be heard with compassion. We’ll also explore Nonviolent Communication (NVC) to help identify and express underlying needs beneath our emotions and reactions. Whether you’re a teacher, leader, parent, advocate, or someone who wants to grow in your ability to connect across differences, this session will give you practical tools for building empathy and resilience in your relationships.

Facilitators

Arturo Montoya Garcia has been the West Coast Transformative Justice Regional Director for Mennonite Central Committee since 2017, providing training to various school districts, nonprofits, and universities on restorative practices and conflict resolution skills. He has served with Mennonite Central Committee in Nicaragua, engaging in community development and relief work, as well as peace education in Akron, PA. His background includes religious studies and over eighteen years of experience working as a Child and Family Therapist, specializing in Trauma in Phoenix, Arizona.

Jessica Aquino has served as the Transformative Justice Program Coordinator for West Coast Mennonite Central Committee since October 2024. In this role, she provides training to schools on restorative practices, conflict resolution, and mediation skills. Her work includes direct engagement with students to build social-emotional awareness, communication strategies, and constructive responses to conflict. She also collaborates with educators to support inclusive classroom environments and respond effectively to challenging behaviors. Prior to joining MCC, she spent six years as a preschool teacher, where she focused on fostering inclusive learning spaces that honored the diverse needs and backgrounds of her students. Her work is grounded in a commitment to equity, healing, and community care.

Registration Cost - $20 Register by September 5

Schedule

Dinner - 5:30 pm

Session Begins - 6:30 pm

Session Ends - 9 pm 

Stay tuned for more details! We're excited to share more information with you soon.