4th Annual
American Indian Law and ADR Sections Peacemaking Virtual Luncheon
Part 1 – Introduction to the Peacemaking Process
Wednesday, April 17, 2024, Noon - 1:30 p.m.
No Cost to Attend
Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMod-uhrjkpE9fxe555uqaJtWeKHY3q58qr#/registration
We heard your feedback and we are excited to offer you a dynamic two part series about Peacemaking!
The State Bar of Michigan American Indian Law Section and the ADR Section's Diversity and Inclusion Action Team are pleased to offer this dynamic event about Peacemaking Circles, a time-tested model for healing relationships and keeping them healthy. Based on indigenous teaching, the Circle process builds an intentionally safe space to discuss conflict resolution and is a concept that can be appreciated by many alternative dispute practitioners.
This event is Part 1 of a two part series. Part 1 will cover the history and the origins of peacemaking circles, the ground rules, and the process for peace makers. Part 2 will be a hybrid event (virtual and in person), to be scheduled at a later date in the fall, and will include an actual peacemaking circle demonstration in which in person participants will have the opportunity to participate in the circle. Our demonstration will be conducted by highly accomplished Native American circle keepers and other peace makers.
Moderator:
Stacey L. Rock (American Indian Law Section Chairwoman) Stacey is employed with the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians as the Associate General Counsel. She is a graduate of WMU Thomas M. Cooley Law School, where she interned for the Innocence Project. Stacey is also a certified mediator and has extensive experience in the development and utilization of peacemaking programs. She is a proud citizen of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians and the mother of two extraordinary young men.
Facilitators:
Jason Wesaw is Potawatomi (Turtle Clan) and is the Peacemaking Coordinator for the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi. He believes strongly in utilizing traditional culture to help the community heal, grow, and maintain healthy relationships. The journey of learning has helped him to understand how Circles can be utilized to restore balance in society at large, one small case at a time.
JoAnne Cook is an Appellate Court Judge at the Little Traverse Bay Band of Odawa Indians. JoAnne, a member of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa/Chippewa Indians, is from Peshawbestown, Michigan. Her previous professional experience includes one term on Tribal Council (2012-2016) and with Tribal Courts as a Tribal Court Judge for two tribal communities (1994-2011). JoAnne currently serves on the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa/Chippewa Indians Appellate Court as Chief Appellate Judge. She received her Business Administration degree from Ferris State University and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Wisconsin School of Law.
JoAnne was involved in the organization and development of two alternative courts: Peacemaking and Healing to Wellness Court (Drug Court). The alternative courts utilize tradition and culture which allows for healing and restoring balance for those involved. She has begun consulting with native and nonnative communities who are either developing Peacemaking or a Healing to Wellness Court.
She believes tradition and culture is vital to the Anishinaabe way of life and has continued her learning about the 3 Fires people. JoAnne has presented to various communities on the way of life and culture of the Odawa. In addition, she previously taught Business Law for Northwestern Michigan College (NMC) and a course at NMC Extended Education, titled Native Law and Culture. JoAnne is currently teaching a short course, History of the Anishinaabek for NMC Extended Education.