(Annapolis, MD — October 11, 2006) The Maryland Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office (MACRO) is co-sponsoring a free public forum on peaceful solutions to cultural conflicts. “Building Our Understanding of Islam and Maryland’s Muslim Communities: A Breakfast Forum on Multi-Cultural Conflict Resolution” will be held from 8 to 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, October 19, at the American Visionary Art Museum, 800 Key Highway, Baltimore.

“We need to think ‘outside the box’ to find new and creative ways to de-escalate cross-cultural conflicts, and we believe that correcting misconceptions about Islam and American Muslims will help,” said Rachel Wohl, MACRO’s executive director. “MACRO is partnering with the American Visionary Arts Museum on this event because it’s a wonderful opportunity to educate the public, foster understanding among cultures, and teach useful conflict resolution skills.”

Chief Judge Robert M. Bell of the Maryland Court of Appeals will participate in the breakfast forum. “It is incumbent upon us to address societal ignorance that has the potential to intensify division and conflict in our communities,” Judge Bell said. “We can all benefit from events like this one that promote understanding and civility, and increase our capacity for local peacemaking.”

Attendees will also receive free admission to the museum that day. Because space is limited, reservations are required for the event, which is free and open to the public.

For more information or to register for the free breakfast forum, call the American Visionary Art Museum, (410) 244-1900, ext. 238, send an e-mail to Katie@avam.org, or visit www.avam.org.

Media are encouraged to attend, and cameras are welcome. For more information, contact the Court Information Office at (410) 260-1488.