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Today we feature a Boston University-based program called Axis of Hope, which aims to “develop in young adults an understanding of alternative, non-violent approaches to resolving complex conflicts locally, nationally and internationally.”
This non-profit brings together students of diverse backgrounds by pairing affluent schools with less affluent schools in the same geographic area. The students meet several times over the course of the project to practice conflict resolution through role play simulations. The founders describe this as “intellectual Outward Bound” — students push themselves to take on perspectives distant from their own to broker peace between Israel and Palestine, for example. They learn moral reasoning, trust, empathy, and compassion, all of which are essential components of global citizenship and civic engagement.
Check out this video for more information about the methods they use. You can also check out a new book written by the founder of Axis of Hope, Raising Global IQ. What an incredible way to create world changers!