Nonviolent Communication
Nonviolent Communication (NVC), sometimes called compassionate communication, guides us to re-frame how we communicate with each other. This practice focuses on how to understand and utilize the elements of communication that enable us to better express our feelings, speak about our values, and manage requests. This work also supports the practice of connecting to self and others through empathy.
When centered in racial equity and anti-oppression, NVC helps us to create spaces where people can:
- Be seen and see others
- Be understood and understand others
- Respect themselves and respect others
- Replace self-judgment with self-empathy
NVC helps us identify what is alive inside of us and find ways to express that. It allows us to work through conflict peacefully with integrity, and improve how we express ourselves.
“Being away from my wife and kids is the hardest part of my time. This workshop has been a gift in helping us communicate better, and improve our lives and our children’s lives.”
Freedom Project offers ongoing weekly NVC classes and weekend workshops in institutions across Washington State.
- Twin Rivers Unit at the Monroe Correctional Complex
- Washington State Reformatory at the Monroe Correctional Complex
- Clallam Bay Corrections Center
- Airway Heights Corrections Center
- Washington Corrections Center for Women
- Olympic Corrections Center
- Benton County Jail
These programs help folks deal with the trauma and stigma of incarceration and are proven to have a positive impact when people get out of prison. A 2014 study conducted by Antioch University shows that when someone participated in just 30 hours of programs inside, their chance of returning to prison after release is reduced by 43%.
