Safe Injection Sites

Description

At a dinner party of a group of long-time friends, discussion inadvertently turns to the topic of the homelessness issue that is increasing in town and more specifically the drug use in the homeless population. As the numbers of homeless individuals have increased, so too have the numbers of crimes in the city attributed to drug use. Locals feel uncomfortable in town and shopkeepers are suffering in their businesses. One friend brings up the idea of Safe Injection sites and a discussion arises that turns into a conflict over their effectiveness. Perceptions and emotions drive inappropriate behavior, escalating the disagreement on Safe Injection sites. Through use of transformative mediation, framing of the issue, and calling in both parties, the conflict is able to be de-escalated. Respect and empathy are demonstrated amongst all group members near the end of the dialogue.