Ottawa Proclaims Conflict Resolution Day & Celebrates Book Relaunch with Ernest G. Tannis and CICR
- CICR Administration
- Sep 17
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 22
On Sunday, September 14, 2025, community members and city leaders gathered at Ellwood Hall, Jim Durrell Recreation Centre, to reaffirm Ottawa’s commitment to peace, dialogue, and collaboration.
The afternoon featured the official proclamation of Conflict Resolution Day by Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, alongside the relaunch of Is Everyone at the Table? Life Lessons in Problem-Solving by renowned peacemaker Ernest G.Tannis—making it a truly memorable occasion.
From 1988 to Today: Ottawa’s Ongoing Journey in Conflict Resolution
The event’s highlight was the proclamation of Conflict Resolution Day, a symbolic but meaningful act that underscores how communities grow stronger—not by avoiding conflict—but by facing it with respect, creativity, and a willingness to listen.
Ottawa has a rich history with this proclamation. First signed in 1988 by twelve mayors and the Regional Chair, it was renewed in 2015. This year’s proclamation carries extra resonance, aligning with the 80th anniversary of the UN Charter—a global call for peace, justice, and strong institutions.
Book Relaunch: Is Everyone at the Table?
Alongside the proclamation, the event featured the relaunch of Is Everyone at the Table? Life Lessons in Problem-Solving by Ernest G. Tannis.
A lawyer, peacemaker, and one of CICR’s founders, Tannis has long championed dialogue and inclusive approaches to conflict resolution. The updated edition invites readers to explore how open conversations and collaborative problem-solving can transform the way we live and work together.
Through real-life stories and practical lessons, the book offers guidance on listening, communicating, and moving from confrontation to collaboration. Six new chapters draw on teachings from Aboriginal and First Nations communities, highlighting the importance of inclusion, respect, and shared understanding.
“Too often, principles of justice remain abstract, while what people need are practical examples they can apply in daily life. This book shares stories of people who found ways to move from confrontation to collaboration, reminding us that conflict resolution is not theory — it is a practice of listening, communicating, and creating outcomes people can live with.” – Ernie Tannis
Making Space at the Table: CICR’s Role in Conflict Resolution
The Canadian Institute for Conflict Resolution (CICR) was honoured to co-host this meaningful occasion. For more than 35 years, CICR has been at the forefront of advancing dialogue, training, and innovative practices to help individuals and communities navigate conflict constructively.
Our Executive Director, Daniel Markus, delivered an inspiring speech during the event, highlighting the importance of equipping people with the tools to transform conflict into opportunities for learning and connection. CICR’s ongoing work in training, community engagement, and education reflects the very spirit of Conflict Resolution Day.
His message echoed Ernie’s lifelong question, “Is everyone at the table?” and invited all present to continue making space for dialogue, reconciliation, and the everyday practices of peace.
CICR Executive Director Daniel Markus addressing attendees, highlighting the importance of dialogue, inclusion, and community-based conflict resolution
Ensuring Everyone Has a Seat at the Table
With Conflict Resolution Day now officially proclaimed, there’s momentum to continue:
Bringing more people into the conversation
Encouraging institutions and leaders to embed conflict resolution in their practices
Sharing tools, stories, and learning to help everyone more powerfully participate
Thank you to everyone who came out, spoke, listened, and supported this event—City of Ottawa, Ernest G. Tannis, and all community members.
If you’re inspired to bring these principles into your own work, community, or daily life, explore CICR’s training programs and workshops to develop your skills in conflict resolution, facilitation, and dialogue. Together, we can ensure that everyone has a seat at the table.
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