Kennedy, Warren, and the Democrats: How About Some Conflict Resolution?

Kennedy, Warren, and the Democrats: How About Some Conflict Resolution?
by RJ Eskow | December 19, 2008


The Democratic leadership may be prepared to ride out the current storms over Caroline Kennedy and Rick Warren. That would be a mistake. This is a time to heal wounds, not create new ones.

If the Party wants to demonstrate a new and inclusive style, however, this is a real opportunity. Why not use some the principles of conflict resolution outlined in the U. S. Navy's conflict training program? They include: Think Before Reacting, Use Direct Communications, Look For Interests, Focus On the Future, and find Options for Mutual Gain.

Think Before Reacting

It's not hard to see the logic behind both the Warren and Kennedy decisions. And Washington leaders may be tempted to dismiss the current backlash as the shrill sound of the blogosphere. But does the Democratic Party really want to assume power with a wounded base? Before dismissing the objections, the leadership should study them.

Regarding Warren, the Obama team hopefully understands that the cries they're hearing from the LGBT community are cries of anguish. They've caused genuine pain with this decision, and they need to address it - not only because they need to unify the country, but because it's the right thing to do.

And as for Ms. Kennedy, she needs to understand that some of the opposition she's facing seems to be based on two genuine concerns. One is that she may not be not tough or experienced enough for the job. The other is that politics in this country is dominated by a tiny elite. She will remain under fire until she considers the merit of these arguments.

more...

http://www.smirkingchimp.com/thread/19310