Walking into the Hedge Library to escape the rainy day on Wednesday, you might have noticed a sign indicating that the Conflict Resolution Resource Center (CRRC) was having an open house in its little-known basement location.

Tapestries clothe the walls of the CRRC, creating a comforting safe space that is intended for those who are experiencing conflict of any kind. A photo on the wall reads, “If you want peace, work for justice.”

Daniel Gaskin, a junior and peace and conflict studies major attended the open house said he thinks the CRRC could be an important part of solving conflict if students and faculty would take the time to use the resource.

“From conflict like roommates stealing your clothes or having unwanted visitors, the CRRC helps address these kinds of issues,” said Gaskin. “Some don’t feel their business is for anyone else to know, but it’s a science. Coming to the CRRC is a confidential process in a complete way. It’s best to put your problems on the table and that table is right here “

Gaskin said that many people don’t use the center for a variety of reasons, such as that they don’t know the center exists or that the location in the basement of the Hedge library is not well trafficked.

Among the students and faculty in attendance at the event were Visiting Assistant Professor of Peace and Conflict Studies Jeremy Rinker and Amal Khoury, Chair and Assistant Professor of Peace and Conflict Studies, as well as CRRC student mediators.

CRRC worker and sophomore Sofia Tull warmly greeted visitors and passersby, asking if they were interested in conflict resolution and inviting them to partake in the tasty treats offered.

Tull said the CRRC gives free, confidential and helpful resolution resources for students, staff and faculty.

“We help people look at different options—helping others meet their true needs. The CRRC is not here to judge anyone,” said Tull. “It is one of the only centers on campus that offers true and complete amnesty.”

Those who are seeking more information about the CRRC are welcome to e-mail or call the CRRC for a consultation or for general information. Their e-mail is [email protected] and phone 336-316-2446.

Rinker reminded in an open way that the CRRC is the kind of place that is trying to work it’s self out of the job.

“We hope to model a way of resolution that helps others handle conflict in a way that wouldn’t have them returning to the CRRC—which are important tools for life, conflict is all around us,” said Rinker.